Kids Eat Right Month: Green Chips

Happy Kids Eat Right Month! As a pediatric registered dietitian (RD), I often get asked many questions about feeding children in a healthy way. This month we will discuss many topics about healthy eating with a focus on teaching children how to eat healthy. Luckily, these principles can be applied to children of all ages (including adults who are kids at heart)!

So, the most common question I get is "How do I get my child to eat healthy?". Today, I have an easy recipe that might just get your child to try Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are a member of the cabbage family, that's why they look like mini cabbages. Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A; they are low in calories and fat.

You may have grown up with mushy, smelly Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts have a mineral, sulfur, in them. If you over-cook this vegetable, there can be an odor. I happen to love Brussels sprouts. I love a crispy, roasted vegetable, which is how I came up with this simply, quick recipe.

For children, I think marketing is important for fruits and vegetables. We can make eating fruits and veggies fun by incorporating colors or giving dishes fun names. For grown-ups, I would call this roasted Brussels sprouts. For kids, we could name this green chips or Hulk chips (if your child is an Avengers fan). Here's the recipe.

Green Chips or Roasted Brussels Sprouts
8 oz Brussels sprouts
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt

Wash and trim your Brussels sprouts. Cut Brussels sprouts in half and trim the woody end. Separate leaves. Toss in olive oil and place in a 375 degree oven for 15-20 minutes. After 15-20 minutes, turn the Brussels sprouts and salt them. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until caramelized.

The leaves of the Brussels sprouts get caramelized and crispy. They turn into mini green chips. These are so delicious! Try them; I think you'll like it. Enjoy!

Stay tuned all this month for more on healthy eating and Kids Eat Right Month. For more recipes, encouragement, and tips for healthy eating, follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter.