“Cooking is one of the great gifts you can give to those you love.” -Ina Garten
One of my most favorite activities to do with my boys is cooking in the kitchen. I enjoy baking and cooking, although I am far from Pinterest-worthy dishes. I am more of a recipe-follower than a let’s-see-what-goes-together cook. But from a very young age, I’ve gotten my boys involved with cooking.
During the summer, my kids each get to pick a meal to make each week. They plan the meal, write out a shopping list, pick out the ingredients at the store, and then make the meal. Currently, our grocery shopper is grabbing their list items for them. As they are getting older, they need less assistance from me, but everyone has a role in the kitchen. My youngest can help take out ingredients, mix things up, and he’s always the cookie dough taste tester. My middle guy is learning to read and follow a recipe, while my oldest is starting to use the stove and clean up the dishes. Score!
The end of May seems to kick-off the start of BBQ season and backyard picnics. This time is a great opportunity to have your kids help in the kitchen to prepare a few side dishes you can serve at your backyard potluck picnics all summer long!
Print Recipe
Caprese Pasta Salad
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package and set to cool.
Once the pasta is cooled, toss with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh pesto. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Print Recipe
American Flag Fruit Platter
Instructions
Wash and dry fruit. Lay out fruit and pretzels in alternating rows on platter to represent flag stripes.
Place blueberries in a small bowl and place in the top left corner to represent the stars.
Print Recipe
Pepperoni Rolls
Instructions
Do not preheat oven until the roll is prepared.
Roll dough into a 12x12 square on a lightly floured surface.
Arrange pepperonis on the dough and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and roll dough into a log. Pinch seam to seal and place seam side down on a parchment lined pan.
Mix melted butter, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Brush on top of rolls. Place on stove to rise while oven preheats.
Cook for 18-20 minutes at 375 degrees. Serve warm with marinara sauce
What’s your favorite kid-friendly picnic dish?
