I am no stranger to picky eaters. Up until the last year or so, the kiddo would only eat three veggies: carrots, peas and corn. And that was on a good day. Finding something that your kids like, and is also healthy, is sometimes a daunting task. Thank goodness today’s guest blogger, Nan, knows how to do just that.
As a licensed nutritionist by day, it is my job to be a health nut. I own a personal training and nutrition advising business, so I advise people on how to incorporate a healthier lifestyle into their lives. It’s amazing what a simple change in diet can make in your day and that’s what I try to convince people day in and day out. My three year old son, Reid, is my toughest customer.
Trying to get Reid to eat anything nutritious is a battle. I may be a nutritionist, but I let him have the occasional McDonald’s meal every now and then. Having a little fast food once in a blue moon is harmless, but the problem comes when that’s all he wants to eat, and I’m sure a lot of you parents can relate. Nothing you bake or cook can compete with McDonald’s, especially when you’re thinking from a health standpoint.
I wanted to come up with a recipe that was both nutritious and delicious, a combination that is hard to come by. After spending some time in the kitchen, and messing around with a number of different ideas I finally came up with a recipe that was the perfect combination. It’s a recipe that combines nutritious raspberries and yogurt with chocolate: a chocolate raspberry parfait.
How it’s good for you
I knew from the start that I somehow wanted to incorporate raspberries into this recipe as they are one of the more healthy fruits out there. They are high in Vitamin C and do not contain any fat, sodium, or cholesterol. They are also a good source of iron and folate, as well as a natural substance called ellagic acid that is a cancer preventing compound. Raspberries also contain a high dose of fiber, which is always important to include in your daily routine.
While raspberries are filled with all this nutrition, the problem rests with the fact that they are an expensive fruit. Due to this, coupons have been quite the friend of mine. Luckily, this recipe will only call for two cups so no need to worry, this little recipe won’t break the bank.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons of honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of cocoa powder
- 2 cups of raspberries (frozen or fresh)
- 1-1/2 cups of yogurt (low fat or fat free)
- 1/4 cup of chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk the cocoa powder and the vanilla together.
- Add the honey and yogurt. Stir until well combined with cocoa mixture (should turn a light brown color).
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of yogurt mixture into bottom of glasses.
- Top with raspberries and repeat until all of the yogurt and raspberries are used up.
- Sprinkle each parfait with chocolate chips or shavings.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
The test
Now this recipe has undergone a number of changes, but I was thrilled with the final product. However, I didn’t go through all this work for myself, I knew the toughest test was still in front of me. I called in Reid for the verdict. He eyed it with suspicion, but I egged him on by telling him it was delicious. He took in a spoonful as I watched him anxiously. He then took another spoonful with delight. I asked him if he liked it and he nodded with joy. It was a success!
I hope all you parents out there looking for a healthy yet tasty recipe will find this to be just as much of a success as I’ve found it. Enjoy!
Nan Gibbons is a licensed nutritionist and personal trainer, however her greatest accomplishment is being the mother of her son Reid. She owns her own business based in San Diego. When not working, she and Reid enjoy spending time at the beach, concocting healthy recipes, and crafting. Follow her on Twitter: @healthnut2011 or read her lifestyle blog: http://www.eatbreatheblog.com
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Love the parfait. It looks so good and good for you! got an email about newborn on your hip- does that mean what I think it means! YEAH!
Hi Allison,
This is a great recipe.Thank you so much for sharing with Full Plate Thursday and hope to see you again real soon. Hope you are having a great week!
Miz Helen
This looks yummy-I’m your newest follower from tip junkie party!!
Chocolate and raspberries were just meant for each other. Thanks for linking it up to Sweets for a Saturday.