We all need to eat more veggies, but it can be hard to increase the amount of fresh produce we eat, especially on busy days or when trying to appeal to picky kids. The good news is that veggies don’t have to be boring! They can be used for much more than salads or a boiled side dish. Here are a few creative ways you can use our colorful vegetables to create easy and delicious snacks!
Roasted veggies like potatoes, sweet potatoes, squash and turnips are a delicious dish you can make at night and pack for the next day’s lunch. Roast the veggies in the oven with olive oil to bring out their natural flavor, then season them with cinnamon, nutmeg or chili pepper for added flare. Enjoy them with dinner and easily heat up the leftovers up in the office microwave the following day.
We all love potato chips, especially kids. If you can’t get your kids to eat roasted veggies, entice them with a colorful array of veggie chips instead. They might turn their nose up at soft vegetables, but they will devour them in crunchy chip form. Try making chips out of beets, parsnips, turnips and carrots. . . and don’t forget For You Radish Chips!
To Make ants on a log Peanut butter, celery and raisins make up a classic snack that’s easy to prepare and fun to eat. Kids will love this one! Just spread some peanut butter on celery sticks and top with raisins.
Carrots, celery and bell peppers are easier to eat when paired with ranch dressing. If you are vegan, check your local grocery store for a dairy-free version. These days, there are many choices for vegan-friendly and allergen-free ranch and sour cream dips.
Chop red, yellow, orange and green bell peppers into long strips, then place them in a cup with hummus at the bottom. Fasten with a lid and you’ve got an easy, one-container snack with several enticing colors that is perfect for traveling, lunch or snacks.
