After sleep patterns, I think the next biggest parenting concern I have and hear about revolves around the topic of food. How can I make sure my kids are eating enough vegetables? Did I pack them a lunch that is healthy enough? What can I feed them after school that doesn't come from a box? How many gripes am I going to get about the dinner I'm about to prepare?
My three kids are not the pickiest of eaters, but they do all have their own tastes and preferences. And like most kids, those preferences tend to lean toward Goldfish crackers, hot dogs, and pizza. I see nothing wrong with these things in moderation, but my husband and I find it important to feed our family healthy meals and snacks.
I spend a lot of time searching through cookbooks and online for easy, quick, healthy, and delicious recipes I think all of my kids will enjoy. Sometimes I think I may have more luck solving the issue of world peace. There are a lot of recipes out there and it can get overwhelming. Plus, I usually find myself questioning whether the creator of some of those recipes actually fed them to their children.
So I was beyond thrilled when I discovered an amazing food website, Yummy Sprout, created by Madison mom Tara Verma. After becoming pregnant with her first daughter, Tara left her corporate job and began studying nutrition. Her interest in healthy food and love of cooking led Tara to share her passion with others as she launched Yummy Sprout in 2009.
Tara's family has grown to include two daughters. Both girls struggle with an intolerance to artificial colors and flavorings so it is important that her family eat a diet that includes preservative-free, natural, healthy foods. This desire to create delicious, allergy-friendly food led to an amazing collection of recipes cataloged by age group on the Yummy Sprout website. From breakfast to dinner, first baby foods to dinners for growing kids, Yummy Sprout has become my number one go-to site for healthy recipes that my entire family truly loves.
Along with providing an array of amazing recipes on Yummy Sprout, Tara shares her passion for healthy foods by teaching cooking classes for kids and adults at Whole Foods Market.
With all of these options for making and providing healthy, delicious food to my family and friends, I think I'll finally have time to start working on that whole world peace issue.
Tara was kind enough to provide me with an exclusive recipe to share with you!
Creamy Rosemary Hummus
- white beans (15 ounce can), drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup olive oil
- juice from 1/2 a lemon
- juice from 1/2 a lime
- 1/2 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and blend until creamy. Add additional oil if needed. Serve with fresh veggies or crackers. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This recipe is vegan and gluten-free.
