Finding dinner ideas for fussy eaters can be difficult. Children may reject foods because of taste, texture, smell or appearance. A useful approach is to create meals where familiar foods are combined with small amounts of new or nutritious ingredients.
One simple option is Cheesy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup grated cheese
- 1 small carrot, finely grated
- Half a cup of peas
- Half a cup of corn
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- A small amount of salt if appropriate for your child
Method
- Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions and drain it.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for about one minute.
- Gradually add the milk while stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the grated cheese and stir until it melts.
- Add the cooked chicken, carrot, peas and corn. Stir gently until everything is warmed through.
- Add the cooked pasta and mix until it is coated in the cheese sauce.
- Allow the meal to cool to a suitable temperature before serving.
Tips For Fussy Eaters
If your child dislikes vegetables, start with very small amounts. Finely grated carrot can blend easily into the cheese sauce without dramatically changing the texture, or you can blend up the vegetables so they can't be seen if needed.
You can also let your child choose between two vegetables. Giving children a small amount of control can make them more willing to try the meal.
Serve one familiar food alongside the meal if your child is particularly cautious about new foods. Avoid pressuring them to finish everything on the plate.
Most importantly, remember that eating habits can change over time. Keep offering nutritious foods in a relaxed environment and give children opportunities to become familiar with different tastes and textures.
