Getting toddlers to happily eat their veggies can be struggle for many of us. I’ve read advice that says parents should keep re-introducing them over and over again but personally I was met with the same apathy every time. So I decided to get creative and try different things with the vegetables to see what would stick. Trying to get your child to eat vegetables shouldn’t have to be such a chore, instead it can be fun, culinary experiment into discovering what they like.

Below are three ways to get your toddler to eat vegetables:

Seasoning

Kids can grow accustomed to bland, flavorless food BUT as a toddler refuses food, often times different well seasoned foods can delight and peak their interest so do not fear seasoning on veggies! Start off with a light touch and see how they respond. Try any of the following

• Seasoned salt

• Paprika

• Salt & Pepper

Don’t be afraid to layer flavors and use liquids like

• Lemon juice (my favorite with seasoned salt)

• Olive Oil

• Balsamic Vinegar

• Liquid Amino Acids (or Soy Sauce, the first has way less sodium)

Texture

The texture could be holding them up depending on what they normally eat. Try the following with different vegetables:

• Roasting (my favorite!)

• Boiling

• Steaming

• Sauté

• Grill

Pairing

I’m far from a cook and I wasn’t even sure what to title this section so I’m inventing my own term called “pairing”. Try pairing vegetables with interesting flavors of herbs, beans, lentils, grains, protein. Try:

• Cilantro

• Garlic

• Onion

• Black Beans

• Rice

• Eggs

What sort of tips and tricks have worked for you?