Banana Palace
We decided to build a fun food palace. Simple when you have bananas and strawberries!
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5409
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1369
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Breakfast Wolf
We’re deep into winter now with some brrrrrrr mornings so something warm to start the day is lovely.
Joe loved this fun food Breakfast Wolf (Max had the non choc version).
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5397
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3119
If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): 
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Pear Hippo
Pears are just so “animal” shaped. They make excellent mice, bears, hedgehogs and now it appears hippos too.
Here’s my version of a fun food Pear Hippo.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5384
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=278
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Cucumber Giraffe
Making simple, cartoon-style animals from salad veg really is very easy and makes meal-times super fun.
Here’s my fun food, Cucumber Giraffe.
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Melon Dragon
My boys LOVE dragons. We have dragons of all shapes, sizes and media around the house.
Guess it was my turn to make a fun food Melon Dragon.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5346
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5236
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Oat Puppy
Check out my Oat Puppy at the Healthy Food Guide … http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/june/10/oat-puppy
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Pear Swans
Wanted something simple!
Here are my fun food, Pear Swans.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5335
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=278
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Tomato Scarecrow
Our champion little tomato plants are still giving us cherry toms in winter!! Had to pay homage and do a plate using them.
Here’s my fun food Tomato Scarecrow.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5322
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1663
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Persimmon Lobster
I love persimmons. I’d never had one until moving to NZ and now the start of winter always means a treat for me!!
Here is my fun food, Persimmon Lobster.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5309
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3522
If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!):
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Dancing Ducks
Last of the cheap cucumbers before we go into winter pricing so thought I’d make the most of them. My boys loved them!
Here are my fun food Dancing Ducks.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5296
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5090
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Salad Skier
We’re up in the mountains in the snow. Not skiing but no reason not to create one anyway!
Here’s my fun food, Salad Skier.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5278
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=310
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Melon Cricket
This was a request for Emily’s son who will be 5 soon and loves cricket. As I had the melon it seems a shame not to use!
Here is a fabulous, fun food bowl taking out the wickets.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5269
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3139
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Radish Unicorn
Now admittedly there is not a lot of pink or fairy themes in our household. However, unicorns are different. Who doesn’t love a magical beast with a giant skewer attached to its head!
Here’s my fun food Radish Unicorn.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5255
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5061
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Melon T-Rex
I’ve made this plate for Josh, a very special 5 y.o. from Lancashire in the U.K. He requested a T-Rex from melon which I thought would be impossible at this time of the year. Then I was at the markets and what did I spy; so excited.
Then I tried to make the dinosaur. I have to admit this was one of the hardest things I’ve made in a long time. Comparative dimensions are everything!
So Josh, here’s your deceptively difficult, fun food Melon T-Rex.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5236
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3240
If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!):
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Egg Penguin
We’re heading into snow season here … check out my Egg Penguin at the Healthy Food Guide:http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/may/22/egg-penguin
If you liked this then click for more!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2946
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Kiwi Kiwi
Lynley the Lunch Box Queen https://www.facebook.com/thelunchboxqueen requested a “great Kiwi”.
Not sure this is a “great” Kiwi but it is a Kiwi Kiwi!
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5222
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2927
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Small but Sustainable Steps
In my world good health is achieved not via any diet but by following the SSS principle. Small, sustainable steps forward. I know in my house this has meant that as my knowledge about food, the body and what works best for us increases I have made little changes to our menu. Gone are some of the favourites but in their stead have come alternatives or just better options. All of our changes have happened gradually so they are a little less painful and easily sustainable.
We are working on this principle at the school. Providing options for those who already prefer a sugar/preservative free choice but also trying to introduce positive changes for everyone else.
At the annual X-country school competition we again offered our vegan sausages but this time had wholemeal rolls with a choice of grated carrot, shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes with home-made hummus and tomato ketchup as sauces. This provided a full meal for the students who took up the option. The response was fantastic with really great feedback from everyone who purchased one.
For the next school sporting event we are discussing having the wholemeal rolls as standard and offering the salad items as optional. The PTA would still use the regular sausages but each child would be able to have a full lunch (as opposed to a slice of white bread and a sausage) should they choose. Having veggies normalised as an integral part of a BBQ is, in my mind, a great step forward.
Last sporting event we offered frozen smoothies. This time we set up a “smoothie bar” with a table of blenders offering either freshly whizzed fruit with yoghurt or with oat milk (as a non-dairy option). Using fresh bananas, apples and frozen strawberries made for an awesome mix and the students LOVED them. Even more exciting were the number of kids who had pre-booked a popsicle but decided they would prefer a smoothie. Obviously the hope is that the smoothies over time replace the popsicles entirely … and there is talk of this … and not coming from me either!!
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Apple Pigs
When Joe realised I was taking special requests he was right in there with pigs (which he is fixated with at the moment).
Here are Joe and my fun food, Apple Pigs.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5199
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2721
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Eye Health Kids
The American Macular Degeneration Society www.macular.org is celebrating “Healthy Vision Month” in May and as part of this have an eye health blog party on the 14th. I was delighted to be asked to be a part of this and promote awareness of how food can be a part of preventing loss of eyesight. I am a big believer in how important great food is in leading a full and active life.
I have not prepared a traditional recipe (not my area of excellence!) but have done a food art plate using all those vibrant orange veg that are great for beta-carotene, Vit A and anti-oxidants and leafy greens great for providing lutein and Vit K (and loads more!).
This plate is aimed more at kids but as we know being chock-full of veggies right from the start is definitely the way to go!
For step-by-step photo instructions on how to make this plate:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5179
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Carrot Train
Chef Dom and his mum Claire love to cook healthy, veggie dense foods on their blog https://www.facebook.com/dominicskitchen
Dom was the first to respond to my “can I make something special for you?” and has requested a food art locomotive. So, here’s my fun food Carrot Train – hope you like it!
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5157
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2477
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Pear Kea
I created this fun food Pear Kea back in Nov but hadn’t posted step-by-step photos. As I have received a request for detailed instructions I thought I may as well disseminate to all!
It looks really complicated but actually it’s quite simple (if a little time consuming).
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5139
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3884
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Strawberry Rose
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY.
Say it with a fun food Strawberry Rose.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5131
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3565
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Capsicum Flowers
Mother’s Day tomorrow so we’re thinking flowers but of course ones you can eat are doubly good!!
Here are our fun food Capsicum Flowers.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5121
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2564
If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!):
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Mother’s Day Eggs
I thought I’d make a simple egg design for Mother’s Day and then the boys wanted to join in and make their own versions.
Check them all out at the Healthy Food Guide:
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/may/04/mothers-day-eggs
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2832
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Strawberry Flamingo
Joe wanted to write this blog so I let him have a go (with a few subtle revisions!)
A fun, healthy snack our Strawberry Flamingo.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5103
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2150
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Cucumber Cow
Don’t ask why but I started making a series of cucumber animals and Joe just loves them .. which encourages me!
Here’s my Cucumber Cow.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5090
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3322
If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!):
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Strawberry Fish
Still getting late season strawberries – yum!!
Here are some simple, fun food Strawberry Fish.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5075
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2150
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Fairy Toadstools
Every now and again we have to seek out the magical!
Here is a simple little, fun food plate with some Fairy Toadstools …
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5061
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=181
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Apple Spider
Apples are in season and grapes were on special. Perfect combo and such a great duo for creating a simple, fun food plate.
Here’s my cute Apple Spider.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5052
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3826
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Anzac Poppies
In tribute and with gratitude for all those who served and all those who sacrificed.
Red capsicum poppies …
Lest We Forget.
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World Map In Fruit
This did not take half as long for a class-full of kids to eat as it did to make!
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Autumn Tree
Autumn is definitely here for us. The weather is starting to get colder, the leaves are falling from the trees and the days are shorter.
The boys and I put together a salad using all the autumnal colours (and a random bird!). Here’s our fun food, Autumn Tree.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5031
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2342
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Banana Racing Cars
Simple, cute little, bite sized snack.
Here are my fun food, Banana Racing Cars.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5020
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2803
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Princess Crown
As I have two boys I am admittedly a bit shy on the pink plates. However, every now and again one has to be done and (shhhh) the boys eat it just as enthusiastically.
Here’s my Princess Crown made from mash coloured with roasted beetroot juice. Any pureed white veg would work well. Would be perfect to let the mini chefs decorate their own version too!
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=5008
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1369
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Apple Yachts
Check out my fun boats – Apple Yachts – at the Healthy Food Guide:
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/april/16/apple-yachts
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Pancake Giraffe
School holidays so it’s good to spend time making some breakfasts!
Here is a simple, fun food, buckwheat Pancake Giraffe (made for Max with his predilection for peanut butter).
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4988
If you liked this recipe you should check out this one too!
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/january/22/pancake-turtle
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Watermelon Lighthouse
Still loving the watermelon! Here’s a funky, fun food Lighthouse.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4975
If you liked this post you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4775
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Vegecational Video Ventures 13 – Peeling the Perfect Boiled Egg
I don’t know about you but I’ve spent ages being frustrated, peeling boiled eggs only to lose half the white as it’s stuck to the shell. I did some research and discovered that “old” eggs boil and peel better than very fresh eggs. Now that’s all very well and good but as we have chickens they are always uber fresh.
This led me to some further research and some experimenting and I have the perfect method. It works every time and can be done with eggs retrieved from the chicken that morning …
If you’d like to see the video please click on the link (Max was filming so it’s a bit shaky!):
http://youtu.be/Ob0hvyRXC-8
Method
1. Put the eggs in a medium sized pan of cold water.
2. Boil the water.
3. Cook eggs for 7-8 mins.
4. Turn the stove off and add a sprinkle of baking soda to the pan.
5. Transfer the pan to the sink.
6. Give the egg a knock all the way around to break the shell.
7. Run the egg under the cold tap (big side up).
8. Gently peel away the shell under the running water.
9. Voila …. a perfectly peeled egg …
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Little Miss Muffet
With the change in season we seem to have spiders everywhere – not a problem for us but Little Miss Muffet would not be so calm!
Here’s my fun food Little Miss Muffet.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4947
If you liked this post you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1681
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Salad Island
Whilst we’re still desperately holding onto our lovely Indian Summer we will celebrate with suitable food!
Here’s my fun food Salad Island, a lovely snack or addition to lunch.
For step-by-step photos and recipe click on link:
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4937
If you liked this post you should check out this one too!
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2790
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Watermelon Fish As its Good Friday I need to stick with tradition and plate a fish! Here’s my fun food, Watermelon Fish. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4901 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………… Veggie Easter Egg Joe’s class were being rewarded with a shared lunch today. Given the time of year a fun food Giant Veggie Easter Egg was in order! I made some hummus to use as a dip and also to anchor the veggies. The kids seemed very excited about eating it. 
Then I added some extra hummus, some cottage cheese for dips and a pot of cocktail sticks. 
For the full blog: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4929 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Vegecational Video Ventures 12 – Muesli Easter Eggs When Max was 4 he asked “how come everyone else gets to keep the eggs the Easter Bunny brings and I have to give mine back?” Valid point! Fortunately we were able to communicate with the Easter Bunny and ensure that instead of bringing chocolate eggs the following year he brought something that Max would like to eat. Each year I make something special to be wrapped up and hidden on Easter Sunday morning. Max is well past the believing stage but who doesn’t like the thrill of the hunt? This year Joe is very sceptical but I know that come Sunday he will be delighted to rush around and try and beat Max to the most eggs. 
Last year I made “muesli eggs” from a muesli bar recipe and wrapped them in silver paper. They were a huge hit with my husband even trying to sneak them away from the boys. So this year I went with the “if it aint broke don’t fix it” theory and made a similar batch of wrapped eggs. I will then freeze so they stay fresh and are easy to take away on holiday with us. Check out the video below. So simple and so effective and a great alternative to chocolate: http://youtu.be/OVLTnIgDIFo Recipe – Favourite muesli bar – Favourite wrapping Method 1. Bake the muesli bar mix. 2. Roll rough egg shapes. 3. Wrap. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Pineapple Chick How about a lovely fresh piece of pineapple married with some end of season strawberries to create a super cute, fun food Pineapple Chick? Joe loved this. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4892 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Salad Nest The boys and I were sharing lunch so we went for an Easter-ish theme!! Here’s our Salad Nest, perfect with some coleslaw, fresh corn and home-made mayonnaise. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4876 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. E-Book “Healthy Share Platters” If you’d like some super simple, crowd-pleasing plates to take along to social occasions for all ages check out my ridiculously priced E-Book: http://theartofnutrition.com/sneak-preview-e-book-healthy-share-platters 
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Pear Chick I saw a chick hiding in a pear and given that we’re getting so close to Easter .. here’s a lovely, simple, fun food Pear Chick. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4857 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Dips and Madness at the School The parents at my boys’ school run informal sessions at lunchtime on a variety of topics to entertain and educate the students. I love getting involved and promoting healthy food so decided to put together a lunchtime dip and crudites experience. 
(Me at the hummus station getting the savoury crudites stuff ready). I had to be very careful with ingredients due to allergies so spent time crafting recipes that were tasty but did not contain common allergens and of course that were still healthy. I created two savoury and two sweet dips. The savoury dips to be served with celery, carrot and cucumber batons and the sweet with apple and pear slices. The students would be peeling and chopping the fruit and veggies and doing all the measuring, cutting and food processing required to create the dips. We had four food processors set up to make hummus, pesto (more of a pistou), cookie dough dip and a chocolate dip. None of them used dairy, nuts, sugar or honey (and actually no chocolate – cocoa powder instead!). A fabulous group of parents offered to help and manned the dip stations armed with a food processor, ingredients and a recipe. More adults were stationed at the crudites chopping stations and made sure only the fruit and veggies succumbed to the knives! One more on hand washing duty (at both ends of the session) and coordinating and we were ready. Or we thought we were until we were faced with over 150 students across the two lunchtimes. 
(The students making a chick pea “cookie dough” recipe). It was totally mad but absolutely fabulous and the students LOVED chopping, measuring and making their own dips and dippers. There were no accidents but lots of tasting and questions. The feedback from the parents and students has been excellent with many making the dips again at home and lots surprised that you can make something super tasty using very basic ingredients … ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Carrot Bunnies I discovered some Easter Bunnies hiding in the flower pots. Luckily the soil is edible as are the bunnies! Fun food Carrot Bunnies in dip .. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4841 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Fried Egg Bunny Easter is just around the corner so it’s time for bunnies and chicks! Check out my Fried Egg Bunny at the Healthy Food Guide … http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/march/19/fried-egg-bunny 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Avo-Copter Avocados are still everywhere so we’re making the most of the bounty. It’s a great way to jazz up a salad and make it more creamy and filling. Here’s my simple, fun food Avo-Copter. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4821 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Happy St Patrick’s Day 2015 A simple, fun food plate with grape four leaf clovers and a mini fruit rainbow!. 
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Melon Teddy We’re making the most of our short but bountiful melon season! Here’s a simple but irresistible fun food, Melon Teddy. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4802 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Giant Salad Flower I’ve had this design in my head for a while just bursting to come out, then finally an opportunity. A friend had invited us to a bring a plate BBQ so crudites and dip seemed perfect. Here’s my fun food, Giant Salad Flower. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4786 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Watermelon Boat We’re having the most amazing Indian Summer so are still dreaming of beaches, boats and of course stuffing ourselves full of watermelon! Here’s my simple, fun food, Watermelon Boat. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4775 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Falafel at the School Fete The PTA asked me to coordinate a falafel stand at the annual fete and I was delighted to be charged with the task. 200 chick pea burgers later I was not quite so bubbly but very excited to see how popular they were and how people enjoyed them. 
We served the falafels on a wholemeal bun with sides of shredded lettuce, carrot and diced tomatoes. For a gluten free option we had bowls so the falafels could be piled with salad. To jazz it all up I made a big batch of home-made hummus, some raita, a garlic sauce and a refined sugar-free sweet chilli sauce. The chilli sauce was very popular and despite being really spicy was applied liberally to many burgers. In fact all the sauces disappeared and I had very little to cart home. 
What a satisfying day serving some good wholesome food that was delicious, healthy and well received. Next year we’d like to team this with some fresh fruit smoothies made to order! …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Basketball/Netball Blueberries Who would have thought that blueberries would be good at sport? But it’s true, they are fabulous. Here’s my fun food, Blueberry Basketball or Netball player. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4759 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Vegecational Video Ventures 11 – Watermelon Cakes A Watermelon Cake was my first foray into fun food and so has a place very close to my heart. Using watermelon as the layers for a “cake” just works perfectly and as it’s sweet, juicy and keeps well it’s perfect for parties. In fact one of my favourite party activities is getting people to create their own “cake”. 
Here Joe shows us on video how to put together a fancy petit four style number. Who could resist? http://youtu.be/4TZkAf2RzjU You could of course make large slices with fruit fillings. Follow the link for step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=212 
Or go to the Healthy Food Guide for the mini cakes: 
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2014/february/19/watermelon-cupcakes And of course there is always a whole cake!: 
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=2640 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Campaigning for Healthy Food at the School Please take time to read my blog about our first steps to change the food environment at the school and provide healthy choices at all events: http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/march/05/campaigning-for-healthy-school-food 
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Fruit Rainbow All the glorious, vibrant, summer fruit available at this time of the year makes me want to create multi-coloured plates – and what better than a rainbow for showcasing this! Here’s my fun food, Fruit Rainbow perfect for a party or a morning tea. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4732 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Carrot Teddies A quick, crunchy, cute, fun food snack guaranteed to make the little ones smile! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4721 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………C Watermelon Toadstools Watermelon is in season – YEAH! We love the taste and it’s so good to use for designing -although in NZ it seems very light in colour comparative to that found elsewhere. Here are my fun food, Watermelon Toadstools. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4713 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Salad Spaceship Simple salad plates served with a bowl of dip are always inhaled in our house. This fun food, salad spaceship took minutes to make and of course even less time to eat! 
Both my boys have always eaten radish but it’s never been a favourite. I’m a firm believer that tastes change (for all of us not just the mini-chefs) so I keep offering things even if they’re not top pick. This summer both of them suddenly love radishes and actively ask for them in their lunchboxes!? If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4705 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Vegecational Video 10 – Home-made Apple Chutney We are a very “un-sweet” family. Sugar has never been part of the pantry staples although we do eat a lot of natural sugars via fruit. When we were in the UK visiting my parents my Dad had made some apple chutney. We all loved it. It’s the perfect sweet, spicy, savoury accompaniment to cheese, meat or salads. Although it’s full of sugars via the dried fruit there is no other sweetener. It is a lovely, treat addition to a meal and Joe and I make a big batch that we bottle and store. 
The recipe is very flexible so you can chop and change ingredients and use more or less of anything without doing the end result any harm! Check out Joe and I making a batch on video: http://youtu.be/MCFxyaFmZPc If you’d like the recipe please link to the blog: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4697 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Propeller Plane More lovely, seasonal fruit. Pears and canteloupe/rock melon. Ahhh, melons are a designers dream!! This fun food, Propeller Plane is the perfect after school snack or share for a play date. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4684 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Pear Panda Pears and plums are in season at the moment so it would be a crime not to use them – especially as the boys love both. Here’s my fun food Pear Panda. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4670 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Underwater Salad Check out my fun food Underwater Salad at the Healthy Food Guide. Makes the crunchy stuff so much more exciting! 
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/february/19/underwater-salad ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Simple Platters Last night we had the annual meet the teacher shared dinner at the school. Finger foods aimed at adults and children so I did my traditional “veggie sandwiches” and a simple fruit platter. So easy to put together and visually appealing – although I reckon I did a better job last year …. 
Veggie Sandwiches Great plate for any occasion as you can use whatever you have to hand. I did a combo of just veggies and those with a cheese filling. I also used some home-made apple chutney to stuff the celery batons Using cookie cutters gives the veggies shape but circles, triangles and squares cut by hand work just as well. 
The plate was cleared pretty quickly so that was a good sign! Fruit Platter I had very limited time so just quickly cut some shapes and arranged the fruit on the plate. Bite sized pieces always appeal! 
If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Vegecational Video Ventures 9 – Home-made Baked Beans We have started making home-made baked beans. They are simple and economical to make, taste fantastic and contain none of the additives of many of the canned versions. I was shocked to pick up a can in the supermarket out of interest and find it contained 24% sugar. That’s a quarter of the can that’s sugar – WOW. This time I used white beans (haricot/Cannelini/Berlotti) but I have found that pinto work the best. They are smaller and so absorb more of the sauce. I buy the dry ones and soak overnight but if you’re short of time canned beans would work too. 
Check out the video of the boys tasting for the first time … http://youtu.be/RRuqLurQlAs If you’d like the recipe and instructions as to how to make click on the link: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4658 …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Emperor Penguin I love eggplant/aubergine. I didn’t always, in fact it’s only been the last 10 years I’ve been able to embrace it. The boys have slowly come round to eating it with pleasure and my lovely husband finally ate some and enjoyed it for the first time only 2 weeks ago – YES!! Goes to prove that trying foods over and over again is important, even for us big folks and maybe using different methods of cooking something can be the key. Here’s my much enjoyed Emperor Penguin … 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4645 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Valentines Veggie Bouquet Happy Valentines Day. We are saying it with heart shaped flowers, well veggies … Boys have dip at the ready …. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4634 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Va Fruit Fairy Castle Thickened yoghurt/coconut cream and truckloads of berries. What could be more delicious? The boys are not that interested in fairy castles but the food was definitely exciting! 
For loads of great party ideas why not treat yourself or someone else to the E-Book “Healthy Share Platters”. Less than the price of a coffee … http://theartofnutrition.com/?page_id=4179 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Sushi Hearts Am I a proficient sushi maker – no! It’s not something I do regularly and so I apologise in advance to all those who can make perfect little rice packages. I also used brown rice as that’s what I had available. However, I was able to make fun food, Sushi Hearts using a tea towel to roll them and they tasted great! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4617 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Strawberry Pops I was lucky to find a huge pot of delicious looking strawberries. Although the boys would normally slam dunk them as is with delight I thought I would jazz them up for a change. I went for an ice cream type topping deal. I reckon this would rock at a party! 
Check out the boys testing for the first time: http://youtu.be/8Qx18SFZQFU There’s always a bit of reservation on video. There was no such restraint at dinner .. If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4611 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Heart Balloon My lovely neighbour gifted me a sack of tiny, freshly picked plums. I kept staring at them shining like multi-coloured marbles as they were at different stages of ripening. Once I picked out the ripest and cut them in half I realised they would make the perfect heart. This fun food, Heart Balloon could just as easily be made with grapes! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4596 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Veggie Heart In the lead up to Valentines I can’t stop thinking about hearts – although I have to admit this fun food, Veggie Heart reminds me of a map of Africa! This was a great plate to make and share as part of lunch. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4578 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Valentines Lovebirds Check out my cute, fun food corn lovebirds at the Healthy Food Guide: 
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/february/05/valentines-lovebirds …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Cherry Hearts With Valentines only a week or so away it’s time to share some love! OK so I haven’t actually cut these cherries but they are naturally heart shaped and I thought nothing says romance like the sweet decadence of cherries. Combine that with frozen yogurt and it’s a really special fun food plate …. 
The boys bounced up and down in the kitchen until I said OK you can eat …. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4565 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Superbowl Platter To celebrate the Superbowl final I have put together a fun food, share platter. Would be perfect for a rugby final too! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4554 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Plum Pixie Tonnes of different plums around at this time of the year so a shame not to use them! Here’s my fun food, Plum Pixie … 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4539 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Vegecational Video Ventures – Home-made Healthy Popsicles High summer and it’s lovely and warm here. Still on school holidays so we thought we’d mix it up and instead of having just fruit for dessert we’d have some fresh fruit popsicles. My neighbour very kindly gave us a sack of grapefruit from the tree. Divine!! Some were a little bruised on one side so I scooped out the pulp and the juice and decided to use this as the basis for my popsicles. Unusual yes but we all love citrus and that zingy flavour of grapefruit so we married this with some banana (for sweetness) and some plums that were a little over-ripe. Check out the making on video: https://youtu.be/kjqim-sn_2Q 
Then we had a meltingly hot day (well for Wellington!!) so we did a taste test on video: http://youtu.be/PeX5HD4ofYg 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Veggie Robot As it’s summer salads feature highly on our menu. And salad is perfect for pictures. I use lots of different veg as they will all be part of our meal – you can of course substitute in any veg you have on hand Here’s my fun food Veggie Robot… 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4502 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Mandarin Rooster So much fruit around at this time of year we’re spoilt for choice. The mandarins are lovely and sweet and the perfect portable snack, they are also great for creating fun food! Here’s my Mandarin Rooster. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4502 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. E-Book – Healthy Share Platters If you’d like access to a book full of healthy, fun and creative share platters for all occasions – with of course loads of photos to follow – click on the link: http://theartofnutrition.com/?page_id=4179 
Chock full of ideas for parties of all ages. Come prepared to wow the other guests! If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Pancake Turtle Check out my Pancake Turtle on the Healthy Food Guide. So simple the mini-chefs can make their own: 
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/january/22/pancake-turtle ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Simple Cheese Making Joe and I decided to make simple cheese yesterday. It is so quick, economical and easy that it’s something you can whip up for a meal or make weekly and store in the fridge. You also know that there are no additives! We decided to make Paneer as we’re using lemon juice but change that to vinegar and it’s a “Farmhouse Cheese”. The acidic buttermilk that is the by-product can be used as the base for the most amazing pancakes. The photo below shows the finished product (we just made a small amount for the video) which can be flavoured with salt and pepper, herbs, pineapple or whatever takes your fancy. 
Check out the video to see just how simple it is: https://youtu.be/zngxv8ywwC0 If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4493 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Mushroom Jellyfish I was preparing an Asian dish and the bean sprouts/mung beans just looked just like tentacles. I had the mushrooms, brown rice and veg ready so this fun food Mushroom Jellyfish was born! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4481 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Jelly Orange Cups My boys haven’t eaten jelly/jello before so are excited to try. I don’t buy the store bought as it’s either full of sugar or sweeteners so decided to experiment making my own. My husband reckons it contained too much fruit to be a true “jelly” but it tasted fabulous and you can of course alter the ratio of fruit to liquid. Check out the video of us making it: http://youtu.be/EwnUWxblxec Then the boys road testing it: http://youtu.be/pG-KTaNs54c ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Cherry Mice Cherries are in season – yeah!! They have got to be one of the most decadent treats available. So delicious and yet can transform easily into fun food Cherry Mice. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4464 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Coleslaw Fox This fun food Coleslaw Fox is lots simpler than it looks. I made a light mayonnaise and mixed it with some grated carrot then added the cabbage. It’s a perfect centrepiece for a party or a picnic and who could resist having a little … 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4448 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Sauerkraut Being from an English background, Sauerkraut is not something I have grown up with. Chutneys and pickles yes (and I love making them) but this is my first go at fermented cabbage! I am informed that it’s really simple to make and I know that the beneficial bacteria contained in fermented foods are great for our bodies (we already have yoghurt for those great probiotics) so today was the day to see if I could make it. 
Check out the video to see the Sauerkraut being put into the jar. http://youtu.be/Z07hJ5lTCXY The Testing (7 days later) We left ours for 5 days to ferment and then refrigerated it. Tonight we cooked up with some roast pork, grated carrot and cannellini beans that I had pre-soaked plus some other veggies. Before putting the sauerkraut into the pan I rinsed to remove the majority of the salt. Check out the video to see what the crash test food dummies thought of the sauerkraut. As its high summer here we are making the most of the weather and eating on the balcony so excuse the hats! http://youtu.be/W7bKb5Nt50Y For full details and recipe please click on the link: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4443 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Pancake “Cake” We were having a bit of a celebration so I decided to make a fun food little “cake” and served it to four boys. It lasted about the same time as it took me to get my camera ready .. 
I made some buckwheat pancake batter then cooked them individually in egg rings to make small circles. These were then stacked and layered with fruit and yoghurt. A big hit and a great alternative to a traditional cake – especially as there is no sugar but loads of colour, flavour and of course you can make to personal specifications! If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4432 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Strawberry Birds Check out my Strawberry Birds at the Healthy Food Guide: http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2015/january/08/strawberry-birds 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Tomato Ladybirds High summer so we’re feeling like lots of salads, the tomatoes are plentiful and the flowers and insects are blooming. We combined them all with these bright, fun food Tomato Ladybirds. 
For step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4420 If you’d like to watch the video: http://t.co/97wpCAu2K2 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Vegecational Video Ventures 2 – Home-made tomato sauce We don’t buy tomato ketchup from the store as it contains too much sugar and other additives. However, when we were catering the school sports day BBQ and needed something to accompany our vegan sausages we knew that having some ketchup would be excellent. We tested a few recipes and finally settled on our own version of a sugar (and sugar substitute) free ketchup that is super easy to make, cost effective, keeps well and yet tastes delicious. 70 kids at the BBQ agreed with us! Check out the video link for the recipe and instructions on how to make: http://t.co/CuRLed4XDk …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Vegecational Video Ventures 1 – Introduction This year we’ll be trying something new via Vegecational Video Ventures. There will be an eclectic mix of topics, everything from experimental recipes to home-made sauces and simple food art. Check back regularly to find out what we’re doing in the kitchen and how my favourite crash test food dummies (Max and Joe) are liking what we’re whipping up! Click on the link for a short introduction and what to expect: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSooiIklmQo ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Strawberry Hummingbird Here we go, using the delicious berries that are in abundance right now to make a summery, fun food Strawberry Hummingbird. 
For step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4409 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… New Year Fireworks Happy New Year! This year we’re celebrating with fun food fruit explosions over London … 
For step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4333 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Salad Cabin This is something I made for the boys and I to share for lunch during the Sept school holidays. I’ve since seen some amazing creations on Pinterest but this fun food cabin is simple, quick and easy to make. It’s perfect if you have a few people over, just serve with dip. 
For step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4323 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………… Salad Manger Merry Christmas!! One of my favourite memories of Christmas as a child was seeing the nativity scene all lit up outside the local church. I have done a salad version to fit in with our Southern Hemisphere weather. 
For step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4323 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. Rudolph Pitas Christmas Eve and it has to be Rudolph. A handy, fun food share platter to go with those celebrations … Rudolph Pitas. 
For step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4313 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………… Rudolph Pies Oooh, only one more day and Rudolph should be here. Time for Rudolph Pies … in healthy pastry of course …. 
For step-by-step photo instructions http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1978 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………….. Strawberry Rudolph Check out my Strawberry Rudolph at the Healthy Food Guide … http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2014/december/22/strawberry-Rudolph 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Cauliflower Christmas Tree Build a lovely centrepiece out of steamed cauliflower around a cone of mash or pureed veg. Decorate with brightly coloured salad or steamed veggies. 
For step-by-step photo instructions: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1902 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Christmas Bells Bubble & squeak Christmas Bells. Perfect for breakfast or a light lunch and jam packed with veggies. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please follow the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1892 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Fruit Bouquet It’s tradition in my boy’s school for the parents from the penultimate year to make desserts for the Year 6 Graduation ceremony. I volunteered to make fruit skewers but wanted to do something a lot more special for the night. From this the fun food Fruit Flower Bouquet was born. It looks really complex but is actually simple. It took me about 1 ½ hours to put it together although I’m sure I could do it more quickly next time! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please follow the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4376 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Mini Christmas Pudding I wanted to make a Christmassy breakfast and thought a mini pudding was just the ticket. This is a wheatbrick mixed with a little milk and some raisins. The boys thought it was delicious. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please follow the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4290 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Fruit Candy Cane A lovely, healthy version of the Christmas staple Candy Cane. 
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1884 …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Strawberry Snowman Check out my fun food Strawberry Snowman debuting in the Healthy Food Guide Christmas edition. 
Created by covering two strawberries with yoghurt or coconut cream. Simple, cute and delicious. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Santa Hats Having a quick, simple and healthy plate on hand to whip up and take to a party is always reassuring. This is that plate! So easy and yet perfect for a gathering of any age group. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please follow the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1929 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Brekkie Christmas Tree Bubble and squeak is a firm favourite in our house and it’s so versatile as you can chuck whatever left-over veggies you have into the mix. This is our fun food breakfast version in the shape of a tree (Christmas of course). 
http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4275 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Christmas Star Check out The Art of Nutrition’s Christmas Star on the Healthy Food Guide. Perfect for parties of all ages … http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2014/december/11/christmas-star 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Strawberry Santas It’s definitely that time of the year now, the Strawberry Santas are back! These have got to be one of the best party plates of the season. Luscious strawberries combined with thickened yoghurt or coconut cream and topped off with fresh blueberries – YUMM, a hit at a gathering for any age. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=1838 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Birthday Parties Both my boys have December birthdays (yes very bad timing on our behalf …) so this time of year is especially mad at our house. Fortunately we’re not much into presents so that takes away one stress however, Max and Joe do like to have a party each. This is fair enough but squeezing them into an ever shrinking window of time between all the other festivities is always a challenge. This year the only workable weekend was 6th/7th Dec so that was the one. I’d also booked to see a pantomime on the Saturday afternoon (months ago) so we needed to work around that too – ahhhh! Fortunately my boys are very comfortable with few whistles and bells so we were able to schedule Joe’s for 4.30 on the Saturday and Max’s for 2.30 on the Sunday. We gave the boys options for food and Joe chose home-made burgers and Max home-made pizzas. Although I have been hosting no junk parties for years I am still surprised each time by children’s reactions and what I learn. This year was no exception. Joe’s Party 
For Joe’s party we made home-made wholegrain rolls and minced beef burgers. We served this with sliced veggies, hummus dip, home-made tomato sauce and roasted sweet potato wedges. We always do platter style meals for the family and so did the same for the five six year old boys. They looked at the food with open mouthed amazement and one said “wow, this is such a feast”. Perhaps for children used to having food served on individual plates it made it look more plentiful. It may also have been a little overwhelming at first but I think having the option to eat whatever they wanted from the offered plates made them comfortable and they were soon all tucking in with relish. Roy and I were shocked (but happy) at how much food disappeared. 
Joe had chosen a cowboy theme for the party so alongside firing bows and arrows and attempting lassoing (impossible for anyone aside from professional musterers!) I tried to get the fruit platter to tie in. No self-respecting cowboy would be complete without his gun so that became the centrepiece and I piled seasonal fruit around the outside. 
It took a lot less time to eat than to create but it’s always fabulous to see food enjoyed and eaten with relish – well done boys! 
Max’s Party 
Having older boys always brings larger appetites so I made the veggie and hummus platter earlier so the boys could dig in for a mid-afternoon snack, which they did … Max chose pizza as his party food so Roy whipped up some wholemeal bases and I prepped mountains of accompaniments. All the bright colours and textures made for some very appealing looking platters for the boys to choose their toppings from. And, there was of course the home-made chilli chicken option to test the mettle. Creating their own pizza was very popular and there was enough to have a second go around choosing a whole new set of flavours too. The veggie-nut in me was of course delighted to see baby spinach, mushrooms, corn and capsicum being piled on alongside the more “meaty” options. 
As it was a pizza fest I also made a fruit pizza as a dessert. Pizza topped with cream cheese and then fruit, although the slam dunk winner was the “raspberry sauce” (frozen raspberries blitzed in the bar mix). 
Max wanted to bake a small cake so I let him whip up a fabulous recipe I found and then modified to fit within my “criteria”! It’s a carrot cake that is perfect for share occasions as its gluten, dairy and sugar (and sugar substitute) free. This sounds less than ideal but it actually tastes amazing, is lovely and moist and contains nothing undesirable. All in all two great parties and that concludes my birthday hosting duties for another year. Maybe it isn’t so bad having them both at the same time ….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Pizza Snowman Making the Tomato Santa gave me an idea so I tried a Pizza Snowman. Big hit with the mini-chefs! I used a wholemeal flatbread as the base – my quick cheat when I want to make pizza in minutes. You could of course use a regular base (and cut the shape with a knife). Here’s my fun food, Pizza Snowman. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4245 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Cherry Tomato Santa Nothing says Christmas like a big, red Santa. I was going to make a basic pizza but he just developed into a snack that the boys devoured with glee. Here’s a fun food Tomato Santa, sweet, delicious and simple. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4226 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Popcorn Snowman It’s often difficult to find fun, small gifts to give people. Here’s an idea that doesn’t take long, is easy, economical and fun. This Popcorn Snowman is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. My boys fought over him and begged me to make another! 
You can even personalise. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4187 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Kiwi Christmas Tree The Art of Nutrition designed a 3-D Christmas Tree from kiwi fruit. This is featured in the Christmas edition of the Healthy Food Guide (NZ Edition). 
If you’re based internationally please contact me if you’d like step-by-step photo instructions on how to construct. If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… E-Book Coming soon E-Book should be published this week!! Watch this space for the opportunity to snap up ‘Healthy Share Platters’ at an introductory price of just $ 0.99 
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Banana Snowmen A simple, delicious snack or dessert that you can put together so quickly. A trio of fun food Banana Snowmen. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4090 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Pancake Snowman Check out my cute and simple Pancake Snowman on the Healthy Food Guide http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2014/november/27/pancake-snowman 
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Veggie Turkey A special plate to celebrate Thanksgiving in the U.S. I have very fond memories of my time living in N.C. and thought a fun food, pumpkin dish was in order! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4066 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Pancake Santa The Christmas countdown has officially started at The Art of Nutrition. Watch this blog for a host of healthy, fun food ideas for Christmas. A Pancake Santa? 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4051 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Pear Kea The Art of Nutrition will be launching the E-Book “Healthy Share Platters” very, very soon. There will be a host of easy to make recipes that you can share with family and friends – definitely not as complicated as my Pear Parrot but just as fun. 
This is a Kea, the cheeky NZ parrot. They are the most amazing birds – unless you park your car in the alpine regions and they decide to eat parts of it! Check out “Kaha the Kea” at www.craigsmith.co.nz (the author of the Wonky Donkey) to see some of their shenanigans. If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions as to how to make please e-mail me: judith@theartofnutrition.com If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Hummus Rudolph Ooh check out my fun food, Hummus Rudolph on the front cover of the Christmas edition of the Healthy Food Guide magazine. And … there are more creative designs from The Art of Nutrition inside! 
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/healthy-food-guide/2014/november/14/december-issue-10-things-we-learnt ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Asparagus Ballerina I can’t look at asparagus without thinking about long limbs, and what better to showcase that than a ballerina. Not sure I’ve done her justice but here’s my fun food, ballet take on asparagus anyway! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4030 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Feeding Picky Kids – Book Launch At the weekend Christine Sullivan (Naturopath and Nutrition Medicine Consultant) hosted a party to launch her book Feeding Picky Kids (available from www.feedingpickykids.com.au or on Amazon). As many parents know creative food can make a food far more exciting. So as part of the launch The Art of Nutrition gave away a preview of the E-Book “Healthy Share Platters”, which will be published very soon. To celebrate in true healthy, fun food style Christine put together some plates of caterpillar sandwiches based on a design from the E-Book. Yummm! 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Egg Panda Simple eggs, mushrooms and spinach make a lovely start to a morning. Here’s my cute, fun food panda. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4013 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Happy Sun So here in the Southern part of the world we are starting to see a lot more sun – yeah! Here’s a simple, fun food tribute to that lovely, big heater in the sky. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=4002 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Strawberry Tulips Check out my super simple fresh strawberry tulips on the Healthy Food Guide: http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2014/november/13/strawberry-tulips 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Tomato Poppy This is the one day of the year I am not preparing a fun food plate. Today I am creating a tribute to all those who sacrificed. This is in honour and thanks. LEST WE FORGET 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3924 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Egg Flower Busy, busy at the moment so looking for really simple plates to present. I wanted to use some our lovely, fresh eggs to make a fun food breakfast plate. From this emerged a flower. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3908 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Tulip Field We were privileged to have Craig Smith, author of the Wonky Donkey and many other children’s books over for dinner this week. www.craigsmith.co.nz 
Wonky Donkey Fun food art I decided that I just had to use the beautiful strawberries that have just come into season and what better than a fun food field of tulips. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3868 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. E-Book The Art of Nutrition will be launching an E-Book very soon (should be this month). Keep a look out for links as to where to buy. It will be competitively priced and new recipes will be automatically updated for subscribers. 
Watch this space! Judith The Art of Nutrition Fun, healthy, creative food for kids big and small If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Remember Remember Happy Guy Fawkes/Bonfire Night to those celebrating. And what better way than with a fruit bonfire and fireworks. Sooooo much warmer and safer than the real thing! Check out the link on the Healthy Food Guide. 
http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2014/october/30/bonfire-night ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Elephant Toast I was cutting some bread that had a little indent and it just looked like the back of an elephant. From that this cute, fun food elephant emerged! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3834 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Snack Spiders A fun food snack for Halloween. Not a creepy spider but a cute one! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3826 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Avocado Skulls I found some lovely, ripe avocadoes and as we were having a Mexican inspired dinner I thought what better but some salsa-stuffed skins. Some fun food, avocado salsa skulls. Perfect for dinner or a party, simple to make and delicious to eat. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3815 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Frankenstein Tortilla I made a simple, spinach flat bread for a novel take on breakfast fare then added mushrooms and cheese to make a fun food Frankenstein. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3802 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Banana Mummy My boys just loved this simple Halloween dessert!! A fun food mummy … 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3790 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Eyeballs This is a great Halloween share plate. Traditional colours, simple, healthy and a great fun food plate for any age group. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3781 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Egg Ghost This may just qualify as the easiest fun food plate ever!! Making an egg ghost for breakfast or lunch is so simple I got the boys to do their own. Much to their delight …. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3772 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Fruit Witch And to go with Wednesday’s cauldron here is a cutesy, fun food witch. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3759 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Fun Salad Skeleton Check out my funky, fun food skeleton on the Healthy Food Guide: http://www.healthyfood.co.nz/blogs/the-art-of-nutrition/2014/october/15/salad-skeleton 
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Witches Cauldron Had to do a cauldron as part of my Halloween series and this one made a great addition to a fun food lunch for the boys and myself. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3742 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Thanksgiving Turkey OK so every year I get into trouble from one of my Canadian friends (yes that’s you Suzanne) as I do a design for the US Thanksgiving but not one for the Canadian one. Not this year, I shall be in the good books! HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all my Canadian friends and here’s a fun food plate to celebrate with. It’s really quite simple! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3728 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Apple Spiderweb Spiders are an iconic part of Halloween and nothing screams spider like a web! I’ve created a fun food web from apple. The boys thought it was “cool”. 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3715 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Salad Skull Share Platter I’m in the process of putting together an E-Book of Healthy Share Platter recipes and this Halloween plate could easily be in there! Here’s a fun food plate for Halloween that’s healthy and great for a party of any age. My boys used at a playdate and it was very well received … 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3704 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!): ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Brekkie Monster Halloween falls at the end of the month so it’s time to start some “monstrous” designs. Here’s a fun food Brekkie Monster to start the series. It’s a great one to do with the mini-chefs as they can decorate their own ….! 
If you’d like step-by-step photo instructions please click on the link below: http://theartofnutrition.com/?p=3692 If you enjoy my posts please vote for The Art of Nutrition by clicking on the button below (must be done monthly!!):
