Taco Tuesdays
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Finding kid-friendly family meals can be a challenge because rascals’ little tastebuds are still developing, growing, and changing (and may have a strong affinity for chicken nuggets and fries). To minimize the onset of a food battle in our home, I have a list of go-to meals that both the adults & kids love.
(My personal cooking preference is to make one meal that everyone will eat. The less time I spend in the kitchen - the better!)
In college, we frequented the local El Torito for tacos every Friday; you can’t beat their happy hour prices. Since then, I’ve loved making tacos (see the variations below) because they are easy and healthy and everyone can pick what they want to put inside. Take that, picky eaters!
Before the age of 2, I created "de-constructed” tacos for my kids. In essence, instead of building the taco, I put all the ingredients and toppings on the plate and just let them dig in. As they got older and increased their dexterity and coordination, they started to eat “constructed” tacos . Now, at the ripe old age of 4, my eldest demands to build his own taco.
It is important to note that in my household, “taco” is interchangeable with tostada, soft taco, burrito, taco bowls, and nachos. We use the same ingredients presented in different ways.
Suggested ingredients can include:
A protein or two: ground beef with McCormick Taco Seasoning, Texas pulled pork, rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, salsa chicken, tofu, black or refried beans
Veggies: shredded spinach, grape tomatoes, sautéed zucchini, avocado, sautéed onion, roasted peppers
Toppings: cheese, your favorite salsa, jalapeños, black olives
To accompany the main dish, I usually roast some additional veggies (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, butternut squash). Sometimes, I’ll make a box of Rice-A-Roni Spanish Rice, although I know my mom would prefer I make it from scratch!
Hands down, everyone loves Taco Tuesday in our house. Yes, we call it Taco Tuesday even when we don’t eat it as a taco and even when it is a Thursday. Create your own “Taco Tuesday” and enjoy dinnertime with the whole family!
Food suggestion by Brandi Stanton and consumed by two rascals, ages 2 and 4.
