I think we’re on to something with plugging in green veggies to some of our favorites. I know my crew is more willing to try something new when it’s paired with a trusted favorite. While my little fella is dairy free, both my girls LOVE macaroni with cheese. I’m not talking the kind out of the blue box either. It’s shockingly easy to prepare fresh, homemade macaroni with cheese. This week I decided to test the waters with collards again and I’m happy to report it was another success!
Macie Jane has a well check up this week and among the number of questions I get asked is the age old, “Is she eating a balanced diet?” Of my crew she typically eats the best but still I’m not satisfied with the amount of vegetables she eats. And my other two? I straight up answer no. They do not eat a balanced diet- not because it’s not provided but because you can not force feed toddlers. If they don’t want it there’s little to no reasoning with them. I can get a few veggies plugged in here or there but the majority of the time it has to be hidden in a fruit squeeze, smoothie, or tucked into quesadilla- even then they catch on to me.
Needless to say I was thrilled when I discovered how easy it is to grab a bag of Nature’s Greens fresh ready to eat/cook greens. I can zip open the bag, toss them into a pan to sauté or a blender for a smoothie. I’ve been inspired to try them in more of our recipes that I hadn’t before.
This week’s attempt was in their favorite lunch time meal- Macaroni with Cheese! I love this one because it’s not only awesome on the first day but it’s excellent to reheat for lunch the second day too! On our Bible study days I typically make Macaroni with Cheese the night before so it’s ready to go when we hurry home to squeeze in lunch before naps! I sautéed a cup of chopped collards and mixed it right in with the macaroni- SO GOOD! Y’all, game changer. I’m not sure we’ll ever have plain Macaroni and Cheese again!
You ready for the recipe? It’s crazy easy and kid tested + approved! Just 5 simple ingredients and I’m willing to bet you have most if not all of them sitting in your kitchen right now! Click the button below to get your set of FREE printables including the recipe!
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