Children aren’t famous for having the most adventurous palates, or for caring much about the nutritional value of their meals – which is where, of course, you step in. If you have yet to introduce your little one to your favorite gluten-free ancient grain, try starting with one of these kid-approved quinoa recipes, sure to tempt even the pickiest eaters.
Quinoa Pizza BitesLink opens in a new tab/window, Fit and Frugal for Ancient Harvest
What kid doesn’t love pizza, right? And while these snack-sized slices may look anything but healthy, they’re actually packed with nutritious ingredients like flaxmeal and Ancient Harvest Organic Quinoa FlourLink opens in a new tab/window. Add your child’s favorite pizza toppings, and you’ve got a great meal the whole family will enjoy.
Baked Turkey, Quinoa & Zucchini MeatballsLink opens in a new tab/window, Cookin’ Canuck
Another crowd-pleaser, meatballs are easy to customize – and easy to sneak nutritious ingredients into. These have hearty quinoa and grated zucchini, and are lightened up a bit by the use of ground turkey. Serve in lettuce wraps or over gluten-free Ancient Harvest Supergrain PastaLink opens in a new tab/window.
Quinoa FrittersLink opens in a new tab/window, Wendy Polisi
Here, quinoa and cheese (or dairy-free cheese) stand in for meat to create a delicious, plant-based nugget that pairs perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce. The recipe also includes recommendations for mix-ins (chopped onion, kale or spinach, curry powder) that turn these kid-friendly treats into a more “adult” meal.
Jalapeño Bacon Quinoa Mac n’ CheeseLink opens in a new tab/window, Fit Foodie Finds for Ancient Harvest
A super-easy way to get your kids to love quinoa is by swapping it for the “mac” part of mac and cheese. The gluten-free ancient grain provides a great texture that holds up well to a creamy cheese sauce, bacon, veggies and whatever else you’d like to add. If the kids don’t like too much spice, simply leave out the jalapeños.
Peanut Butter Quinoa Crackers & Homemade Nutella SandwichesLink opens in a new tab/window, Simply Quinoa for Ancient Harvest (pictured)
The sweet and creamy combination of chocolate and nut butter is an easy sell, and these gluten-free sandwich cookies likely won’t last long. We recommend making extra crackers (made with almond flour, oat flour and Ancient Harvest Quinoa FlakesLink opens in a new tab/window) to be used for other snacks throughout the week as well.
Quinoa Coconut Granola BarsLink opens in a new tab/window, Super Healthy Kids
The ultimate grab-and-go breakfast or snack, granola bars are a part of so many kids’ daily diets. The quinoa and nuts in these offer an energizing dose of plant-based protein, while coconut, dried fruit and honey add sweetness.
Can’t get enough delicious, gluten-free recipes? Don’t miss the recipes pageLink opens in a new tab/window at AncientHarvest.comLink opens in a new tab/window.
