Air-fryers provide all of the GBD (golden brown deliciousness) of frying but are much healthier because they have a fraction of the oil. If you are looking for the crispy goodness that is provided by frying or baking, air-fryers might be a great alternative for all your favorite snacks. Below are a couple recipes that really let the air-fryer shine!

  

 

Written by: Tarya Pillay 

Sources:

https://foodhero.org/recipes/baked-zucchini-sticks 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/air-fryer-curried-cauliflower/ 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/air-fryer-avocado-black-bean-taquitos/ 

Many times when you ask a child what their favorite food is, they say “pizza!” However, pizza is considered a “sometimes” food, meaning that it should only be eaten occasionally. However, when made with the right ingredients, pizza can include a lot of nutrients that are necessary for one’s diet.  

These pizza recipes are a healthier alternative to many people’s favorite comfort food! 

  

Written By: Sierra Troutman 

Sources: https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/pizza-with-plant-based-california-walnut-crumble/ 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/asparagus-cheese-pizza/ 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/sweet-potato-prosciutto-pizza/ 

Sometimes recipes can become needlessly overcomplicated. When recipes require a counter full of ingredients, it can seem overwhelming after a long day. Also, by finding recipes with fewer ingredients, it simplifies the recipe so that younger family members can participate.  

These recipes will allow families to cook healthy recipes together without an overwhelming amount of ingredients! 

  

Written By: Sierra Troutman 

Sources: https://fruitsandveggies.org/stories/quick-convenient-2-ingredient-dinner-ideas/ 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/broc-broc-soup/ 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/orange-mango-chicken-lettuce-wraps/ 

August 3rd is National Watermelon Day in the US! Watermelons are sweet and juicy, making them the perfect snack for Summer. They are also incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of meals – hot or cold. Watermelons also have a variety of health benefits – they are jam-packed with vitamin C, making them great for your skin and immune system because of their antioxidative properties. They have also been found to reduce blood pressure, insulin resistance, and muscle soreness.  

Did you know? 

• Watermelons are 92% water – hence their name 
• Despite being called a melon, watermelons are actually considered to be a type of berry 
• The heaviest recorded watermelon weighed 262 pounds 
• Watermelon has been enjoyed for so long that watermelon seeds were discovered inside King Tutankhamen’s tomb 

Below are some recipes that highlight the numerous ways that you can utilize your watermelon this National Watermelon Day!  

  

Written by: Tarya Pillay 

Sources: https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/grilled-spicy-watermelon/ 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/watermelon-zapper/ 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/watermelon-fire-ice-salsa-2/ 

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-watermelon-day-august-3/ 

Chia seeds have recently been making a culinary comeback! So, we are going to cover what they are and why they are good for you. Chia seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant (a cousin of mint) and grows mainly in Mexico. These tiny seeds develop an interesting texture once they are hydrated, and it is the form that they are typically eaten in. They have a surprising number of health benefits, including being a great source of fiber, nutrients, and antioxidants. Below is a breakfast recipe starring our new friend the chia seed: 

Written by: Tarya Pillay 

Sources: https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/blueberry-chia-pudding-parfait/ 

You may have a child in your life who is a picky eater. It may make it difficult to make sure they get a nutritious meal every day and to have them try new things. It is important that children get all the nutrients they need every day. There are a variety of ways to introduce new foods to your picky eater. One of the best ways to do this is by incorporating the new foods with a food that you know they already like. Below are a few recipes that you can try with your child to get them to try some new foods! They are very customizable, and you can make them suitable for your kid.  

  

Written by: Morgan Felix 

Sources: https://www.myplate.gov/recipes/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/apple-sandwiches 

https://fruitsandveggies.org/recipes/sweetpotato-mac-cheese/ 

https://www.myplate.gov/recipes/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/anytime-pizza