How to Work Broccoli, Spinach & Other Veggies into Meal Planning

Tis the season for broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and spinach, along with citrus fruits and pears. Many people don't mind citrus or pears, but vegetables can be a hard sell for many adults and a non-starter for some children.

Thankfully, the dietitians at United Supermarkets have some great ideas for working more veggies into your regular meal plan:

1) Be consistent, not forceful. For kids, it can take 10-15 exposures to a new food to feel comfortable trying it, so just place a small portion of your target veggie on their plates. Model your desired behavior by eating your portion, too, and involve older children in planning and preparing meals so they are invested in everything that is being served.

2) Dress them up! Serve a spinach salad with berries or citrus. Pop broccoli into a casserole or egg bake, and roast carrots for a different texture and deeper flavor. Here are a few recipes from United Supermarkets that do just that:

• Mango Strawberry Spinach Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
• Honey Roasted Carrots
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots
• Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry
• Pear and Brussels Sprouts Salad

3) Pair veggies with your favorite hummus flavors. There is a rich variety of hummus flavors, such as garlic, roasted pine nut, roasted red pepper, and spicy. They even have "everything" hummus. Smear it on a wrap with spinach and other veggies, or use it as a dip for carrots, broccoli, and more.

While you're meal planning, be sure to check United Supermarkets' weekly ads! You can find deals, rewards, recipes, and more at unitedsupermarkets.com.