7 Ways To Get Your Kids To Eat More Seafood
It's not always easy to have your kids try new foods. That's especially true when you want to introduce seafood. You may love lobster rolls and adore shrimp cocktails — but your children likely have a different view. Fortunately, it's not as hard as you think to teach them to try diverse dishes. A homecooked meal can work its magic.
Here are seven seafood recipes to help your picky eaters evolve.
1. Spaghetti With Shrimp Meatballs
This recipe should be your first choice if your kids don't want to see fish on their plates. It's a classic pasta and sauce meal with a little twist. Rather than use beef or turkey for your meatballs, you'll mince chopped shrimp to create a meatless alternative. They're cheesy, herby and savory. In fact, your kids may not even realize that you've chosen a new recipe. How's that for a unique dish?
You can cook any pasta to accompany your meatballs. Serve alongside salad and bread.
2. Baja Peninsula Fish Tacos
Tacos will always be a knockout. They're a perfect summer hit when you use a firm white fish for your protein, too. This recipe puts a tasty spin on a traditional meal from Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. You can cook flounder or tilapia for your main ingredient. You'll also want to gather a few extra toppings. Try a combination of jalapenos and mangos for a sweet and spicy blend.
Pair your fish tacos with chips and salsa. If you have time, you can make a few paletas, or Mexican popsicles, for dessert.
3. Lobster Grilled Cheeses
You can never miss with a grilled cheese sandwich. If your kids love bread and cheese, you should incorporate another yummy layer. Why not try a lobster tail? This shellfish has a light and sweet taste. This way, you won't overwhelm their tastebuds. Feel free to use American, swiss or another cheese other than cheddar if you'd like. But you should always choose a crunchy, salty bread.
A grilled cheese sandwich works best with tomato soup. You can also serve chips or yogurt if you try this recipe for lunch.
4. Maple and Mustard Glaze Salmon
There's not much better than a decadent salmon dinner. This recipe uses maple and mustard to create a tasty glaze. You'll bake your salmon — which makes a huge difference when it's time to clean up. Most children love salmon because it's not overly fishy. Its outside crust takes on flavors well. As a result, you won't have to eat a bland fish. You can also adjust each ingredient if you want a sweeter or spicier meal.
A salmon dish works well with green beans and mashed potatoes. You can also pan-fry your salmon if you prefer not to bake. You'll still achieve a yummy crust.
5. Easy Tuna Melt Sandwiches
You likely enjoyed a tuna melt or two as a child. Whether you need a recipe for school lunches or park picnics, it's time to try a yummy take on a classic. Your kids will love this altered version. It's well-seasoned and slightly spicy, so it's perfect when you need to jazz up a can of tuna. You'll want to use a lighter cheese and bread as a way to ensure you don't overshadow your tuna's main event.
Serve your sandwiches with fruit, chips or another straightforward side.
6. Baked Catfish With Savory Herbs
You should know how to cook a catfish if you ever find yourself with one. A grain-fed catfish often has a mild, sweet taste. That's why your family may discover a new favorite dish. This recipe makes for a simple weeknight meal since it'll only cook for about 20 minutes. The various herbs and spices create a delicious outer layer for your fish. Feel free to adjust if you'd like to make your meal a little spicier.
Try a roasted vegetable like broccoli to complement your catfish.
7. Potato Chip Crusted Fish Sticks
It's no secret that children love potato chips. This take on fish sticks can turn them into true seafood lovers. Rather than use breadcrumbs, you'll coat your tilapia with potato chips. It may seem like an unusual approach. That said, you'll find that this yummy crust makes everyone want to come back for seconds. You may even want to use barbecue-flavored potato chips if you want a super kid-friendly meal.
These fish sticks would taste terrific with any dipping sauce. Try tartar sauce or honey mustard for different options.
Your Family Won't Be Able to Resist These Delicious Recipes
Your children will soon become seafood lovers with these tasty dinners. Whether you want to serve up a tuna sandwich or a baked catfish, you can't miss if you cook a lovingly homecooked meal. Use these suggestions to help your kids eat more seafood.