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If you are stuck thinking boring old veg as you’re trying to get your family to eat five-a-day then here’s a list of ten things you can do with a pepper that might just inspire you!

1. Spanish omelette. Jazz up the humble egg with a pepper, some onion and maybe a handful of grated cheese for quick meals with eggs that the whole family will enjoy.
2. Chinese stir fry. Use up all the bits and bats of veg you have in the fridge including peppers and add a spicy sauce for extra taste. Serve with rice or noodles for an easy, nutritious meal.
3. Stuffed peppers. Baked peppers take on a whole new lease of life so if you have left over risotto or savoury rice, stuff and bake for a yummy lunch the next day.

As anyone who has a family to feed will tell you, it can sometimes be difficult trying to please everyone, particularly if you have a few fussy eaters, which, let’s face it, is often the case when it comes to children.



Feeding your kids something that they will enjoy, but which is also good for them, can be hard, especially when you are pushed for time and trying to do a million different things at once! But don’t worry, help is at hand. 

We all know that there are certain foods and drinks that have that feel good factor to them. In mid-winter you are drawn towards making rich stews and soups, lots of meals with mashed potatoes and gravy, puddings covered in custard. And in the summer we move towards lighter bites and things that are refreshing. Cucumber, salads, ice cream and sorbets, all take the weight out of a hot humid day.



Drinks can do the same thing. If you’ve been out for a walk on a cold winter’s day, you don’t feel like a glass of lemonade when you come in. You want hot chocolate, canned tomato soup, anything piping hot and comfort inducing! And in the summer, an ice cold beer or a glass of wine is just what you need for that early evening drink.

Eating yogurt every day is very healthy for your body, especially if you are looking to supplement your diet with protein and calcium. Some people think that yogurt is just a delicious snack with fruits at the bottom, but they do not know the health benefits of eating yogurt. Compared to milk, yogurt has more protein and calcium and is rich in riboflavin and B12.


Photo: vigilant20

Yogurt contains active and living cultures, which are composed of unique living microorganisms responsible for its many health and nutritional benefits. It improves the body’s natural defense, contains a good amount of phosphorous, and lessens the risk of osteoporosis. Some people have trouble-digesting lactose from milk and other milk products, but live yogurt cultures produce lactase and break down lactose. It is a healthy way to get calcium that the body needs, especially for the people who cannot tolerate milk products.

Getting your children involved in the kitchen is one of the best ways to teach them about good nutrition and to give them life skills which they will use forever. Cooking is also a fantastic activity for family bonding as you can share the creative experience as well as the enjoyment of eating the food afterwards. It is also great for self esteem; imagine the pride your child will have in their achievements if they cook something the whole family can enjoy!



So, put down that magazine with the fascinating Beauty Tips article and get ready to do some cooking this teatime when the kids come home from school! If you have more than one child then choose a recipe which involves several tasks so you can share them out. If it is just you and one child then something more complicated may well be possible as you can help them closely every step of the way. Perhaps their favourite meal is the best place to start.