On this week’s Global TV parenting segment, we discussed one of my favorite topics – food! Food, glorious food! Actually, not so glorious when your kids complain that they don’t like what you’re serving, and then they ask for the trusty grilled cheese. Yes, many of you have stated that you make ONE family meal, and if the kids don’t like what you’re serving, they go to bed hungry. I’m just not there yet, ladies. Don’t judge.

But this week, I gave you my family favorites. These recipes are quick to make, healthy and taste great. I would love you to share your own healthy recipes below if you have any that work in your family. Here is this week’s segment, and I have provided the recipes below. Let me know what you think!

Direct Link to segment: http://globalnews.ca/video/2263483/parenting-columnist-erica-diamond

1. Lebanese Chicken from my Mother-in-Law!

PastedGraphic-3

Source: Liz / Harriet (mother-in-law’s friend)

4 boneless, skinless, chicken breasts.
4 oz. vegetable oil
2 oz. white vinegar
1 oz. fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. salt
5 cloves of garlic
pinch of cinnamon
2 1/2 tsp. oregano

The trick here to get that rich tasty flavor, is to pour this marinade over your boneless, skinless chicken breasts, and let it sit in the fridge for 2-3 days covered. Then, grill or broil. Simple, quick, easy, DELICIOUS! Add some quinoa and green veggies, and you’ve got a wonderful dinner.

2. Ginger Teriyaki Salmon

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Photo cred: Pinterest

Many kids love Salmon, mine don’t, but many do. Here is an easy and delicious I use all the time from Dr. Weil.

http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/RCP00182/Salmon-Teryaki.html

3. Homemade Healthy Pizza

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I buy the whole wheat dough often frozen at the grocery store. A few dollars for a ball or you can buy it already rolled out.
I buy organic cheese, organic tomato sauce, and let them kids throw on their toppings – green peppers, mushroom, tomatoes, fresh garlic, the works! Don’t forget the basil and oregano for flavor!

As you can see, I made plain for my kids, and the veggie version (sundried tomatoes and mushrooms) for my hubby and I. I serve it with a kale salad, and our bellies are full and happy.

4. Garlicky Chicken Pasta

Photo credit: Chatelaine
Photo credit: Chatelaine

Our family favorite! Make with linguine or orecchiette (ears!) I make it with less garlic butter.

http://www.chatelaine.com/recipe/stovetop-cooking-method/garlicky-chicken-pasta/

5. Healthy Beef Tacos

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Photo credit: foodwithkidappeal.com

I love this recipe. You eliminate the unhealthy MSG from the equation when you easily make your own taco mix using spices in your house. Whole wheat or low sodium tacos chips and you’ve got all your food groups – protein, carbs and veggies – my kids love to get messy and create their own tacos – avocado, tomatoes, low fat organic cheese, lettuce, black beans, these are all healthy foods!

Recipe: http://foodwithkidappeal.com/taco-night-a-healthy-kid-pleaser/

Happy Hump Day beauties! Do you struggle with mealtime in your house? Do you make one dinner and expect the whole family to eat it, or do you cater to different little mouths? I’d love to know your mealtime tips… I struggle here almost every day.

Finally, I would LOVE your recipe links in the comments section below. What’s easy, healthy and tastes great? Help some of us families who scratch our heads every night. Misery loves company!

Erica3