Broccoli is often thought of as a vegetable that kids love to hate. It gets a bad rap for its less-than-appetizing appearance and slightly bitter taste.

But despite its reputation, broccoli is an incredibly nutritious vegetable that can be a delicious addition to any child’s diet. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make broccoli appealing to even the pickiest eaters. From fun recipes to nutritional benefits, we’ve got you covered!.

What’s So Great About Broccoli?

Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for growing kids. Just one cup of broccoli provides:.

Vitamin K: 92% of the daily recommended value
Vitamin C: 135% of the daily recommended value
Vitamin A: 11% of the daily recommended value
Potassium: 8% of the daily recommended value
Fiber: 5 grams

It also contains important nutrients like calcium, iron, and folate. Broccoli is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great food for kids who need to maintain a healthy weight.

Plus, the phytonutrients in broccoli have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.

How to Serve Broccoli to Kids

One of the reasons kids often don’t like broccoli is because it’s often served plain and steamed. But there are so many ways to make broccoli more appealing!.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and creates crispy, caramelized edges. Simply toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in a hot oven until tender and golden. Kids will love the caramelized flavor and crunch.

Broccoli Alfredo

If your child likes creamy pasta dishes, try making a healthier version with broccoli Alfredo. Steam broccoli florets until tender, and puree them with milk, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a touch of butter.

Toss with whole wheat pasta for a nutritious and delicious meal.

Broccoli Salad

Most kids love crunchy textures, so try making a broccoli salad with chopped broccoli, apples, raisins, and a sweet and tangy dressing. This is a great way to get kids excited about eating their veggies!.

Broccoli Fun Facts

The word “broccoli” comes from the Italian word “broccolo,” which means “cabbage sprout.”
Broccoli is a member of the Brassica family, along with cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts.
China is the world’s largest producer of broccoli, followed by India and the United States.
The largest recorded broccoli head weighed over 35 pounds!

Conclusion

Broccoli may not be the most exciting vegetable, but it’s a nutritional powerhouse that kids should be eating more often. With these fun recipes and serving suggestions, your child will be asking for seconds in no time.

So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t skip the broccoli!.