First Dishes with my Little Chef

When my son was younger, he had always been very anxious to be in the kitchen with me.   He was curious about the various tools, appliances, juicers, utensils, bowls, and always wanted to “help” me.  I gave him many opportunities to help out with cooking such as, washing produce, adding and mixing ingredients and peeling vegetables.   He enjoyed grocery shopping with me, so we would make a list and talk about a few things we are going to cook with the items that we purchased. I want to share a favorite that I remember him making with me when he was only 2 -1/2 years old, English muffin pizzas.  It's a quick, easy and healthy meal or snack.  Older kids can make them on their own for a quick after school snack.  There are some really great, healthy brands of English Muffins in the stores now.  I use Rudi’s Organic Bakery Multigrain Flax English Muffins.   Gluten Free English Muffins are now available, as well. You can use a store bought pizza sauce or quickly blend up your own.  Add favorite toppings and enjoy!

English Muffin Pizzas
1.       Slice English Muffin in half and place on flat pan. 
2.    Spread each half with your favorite pizza sauce OR take a can of diced tomatoes or crushed  tomatoes (which I always have on hand). Add it to a blender with fresh herbs like basil and oregano, and blend for a quick sauce.
3.       Top with zucchini sliced into really thin rounds, or use any other toppings of your choice.
4.      Next, sprinkle with parmesan cheese or any grated cheese of choice.  There are many great non-dairy options that we like to use also.
5.     Place in toaster oven or regular oven at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted. Serve with a side of broccoli!

Instead of English Muffins, you can also use Pita Bread. Check out the recipe in the link below.

Pita Bread Pita Recipe

It's best to get your kids in the kitchen at a young age! They may not want to help out as much when they are older! Check out my blog post "10 Ways to Get Your Kids to Eat Healthier" for some tips!