Cooking Light: Snacks and Desserts for the Family

Gear up for end of summer fun with some tasty treats and energizing treats that the entire family can enjoy. Then when school starts pack these snacks for a nutritious and energizing boost on the go! And these recipes from our friends at Cooking Light are quick and simple enough to get the kids in the kitchen to help.

Banana Split Sundaes

Believe it or not, banana splits are a great way for children to have a well-balanced sweet treat. The secret is to go heavy on the fruit. Click here for the recipe!

Trail Mix

The trick to get kids to eat trail mix−add just a little it of the sweet stuff to the nutritious stuff so it tastes like a treat! Pumpkin seeds are loaded with magnesium and zinc, and the cranberries are chock-full of vitamin C and fiber. Click here for the recipe!

Kale Chips

These chips are crispy, crunchy, salty, and so easy to make. Opt for them instead of potato chips next time you’re craving a salty snack. For a different flavor, try sprinkling the kale with grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or sweet paprika before baking. Click here for the recipe!

Hot-Pink Smoothies

Smoothies are the perfect bases for allowing kids to add their own personality and get creative. The yogurt gives it a dose of calcium. Be sure to use frozen fruit−it eliminates the need for ice. Click here for the recipe!

The Creative Kitchen™, LLC, teaches children about food and how to cook in a fun, safe, and educational manner. Targeting families with children ages two to teen, the company focuses on teaching, writing creative content and curriculum, special events, recipe development, spokesperson work, webisode production and consulting to present educational and entertaining content through food-related activities. The founder, Cricket Azima, is an expert in cooking for and with children. She inspires kids to express themselves creatively through food and cooking, while complementing lessons with traditional educational material such as social studies, math, arts, science, and more. Visit www.thecreativekitchen.com for more information.