My Favorite Trick to Get My Kids to Eat Veggies (and Meat)
Simple dips that make real food more fun
Let’s talk about the two food groups that are the hardest sell in my house: veggies and meat. I don’t know what it is, but unless it’s covered in cheese or shaped like a nugget, my kids act like broccoli and chicken are out to ruin their day.
So here’s my not-so-secret trick: dips.
That’s it. Not bribery, not negotiations, not turning dinner into a Broadway show. Just a couple of homemade dips that they actually like—and that I feel good about giving them.
1. Honey Mustard (the real kind)
We’ve made this so many times I don’t even measure anymore. It’s just:
A spoonful of mayo
A spoonful of mustard
A spoonful of honey
Stir it up, taste it, and tweak the balance if you want. It’s creamy, a little tangy, and a little sweet—perfect for dipping roasted carrots, chicken, or even green beans if we’re feeling wild. And the best part? It takes 30 seconds and zero mental energy.
2. Hummus (a classic for a reason)
Sometimes we make it from scratch, but honestly? Store-bought totally counts. I just look for one with simple ingredients and minimal added oils. My kids love dipping raw bell pepper slices, cucumbers, and even leftover steak strips in it. Something about the texture makes it feel like a snack instead of a chore.
I love this trick because it works with your kids’ natural preferences instead of fighting them. It turns real food into something a little more fun—and helps them build a taste for those veggies and proteins without pressure.
