Here are 5 healthy eats your grandkids can help you make

Jul 2, 2012, 9:36 a.m.

Summer is fast approaching and that means a lot more time spent with grandchildren for a lot of lucky grandparents. When you get tired of hearing about Happy Meals, and have boiled one too many pots of macaroni and cheese, it's time to get creative in the kitchen with some healthy foods that are easy to make that everyone will enjoy. Grab the grandkids, head to the kitchen, and prepare to have some fun making these family friendly recipes that are quick, delicious and healthy, too!

Chicken taco pizza -- This yummy dish combines two foods kids love most. How's that for family friendly recipes? All you need is some grilled chicken, a variety of low fat shredded cheeses, your favorite taco seasoning, a tube of refrigerated pizza dough, and whatever other healthy toppings you would like on your pizza. Simply divide the dough into 3 pieces and roll each piece flat to form a round pizza crust. Brush the dough with canola oil, add some taco seasoning and grill until crisp, which is typically about 5 minutes on each side. Remove from grill, add the cheeses and chicken, and then grill again until the cheese is melted. When the pizza is done, you can add your favorite taco toppings such as onions or salsa and enjoy.

Grilled mini burgers -- Kids and grown ups will love these tasty burger! You can bet this will be quickly added to your list of healthy foods that are easy to make. Mix a pound of lean ground chuck (or even ground turkey) with some salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder. Form the meat into 8 equal patties and bake, grill, or broil to your desired temperature. Slice 8 (eight) 3 inch buns or rolls in half, wrap in foil and bake for about 10 minutes. Add a burger and top with your favorite condiments for a yummy treat.

Homemade turkey chili -- A healthy alternative the whole family will love. Combine your favorite chili ingredients -- peppers, onions, garlic, etc. in a large pot with a few tablespoons of canola oil and cook on high heat until caramelized. Add three pounds of ground turkey and cook about 5 minutes or until the turkey is no longer pink. Next add a can of tomato paste, a cup of chicken broth, 2 cups of tomato sauce, and your favorite dry chili seasonings. Stir in 3 cups of pinto beans and kidney beans, then reduce to low heat and cook, uncovered for around an hour. Serve topped with cheddar cheese and a side of your favorite crackers or cornbread.

Chewy granola bars -- Kids will love making their own granola bars at home as a tasty snack. Combine 1/2 cup of light brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1/2 stick of butter and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for about 2 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Let mixture cool while combining 2 cups of low fat granola mix, and 1/2 cup of the following: coconut, raisins, and chocolate chips in a bowl. Add the brown sugar mixture to the granola mixture then spread in a 13 x 9 inch baking pan. Top with remaining chocolate chips and refrigerate 2 hours or until completely cooled.

Kid friendly chicken fingers -- What kid doesn't love chicken fingers? Fortunately, Grandma and Grandpa will love all of these healthy, family friendly recipes, too. Marinate the chicken tenders in 1 cup low fat buttermilk, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper for about 2 hours. When chicken is ready to cook, combine 1/2 box of crushed Shredded Wheat or Cornflakes cereal and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Dip the chicken tenders into the cereal mix and place on a baking sheet. Lightly spray each chicken piece on all sides with canola oil and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Serve with honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

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