Easy Allergen-Free Recipes to Make with Kids

Cooking with kids is not only a great way to bond with them but also an opportunity to teach them important life skills and begin building a sense of independence. However, when it comes to cooking with children who have food allergies, it can be challenging to find recipes that are safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. Fear not! Today, we'll explore some delicious and allergen-free recipes that are perfect (and easy) to cook  with your  kiddos.

Dairy-Free Yogurt Parfaits

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dairy-free yogurt of your choice (coconut, soy, almond, etc.)
• 1/2 cup Safe + Fair Strawberry Shortcake Granola
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh fruit (mango, peach, banana) (optional)
• Drizzle of maple syrup or honey (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Divide the yogurt evenly into two individual serving glasses or small bowls.
2. Sprinkle half of the Safe + Fair Strawberry Shortcake Granola on top of each yogurt layer.
3. Add your choice of fresh or frozen berries to each parfait.
4. If desired, top with chopped fresh fruit for additional texture and flavor.
5. Drizzle a touch of maple syrup or honey for a hint of sweetness.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint to finish!

Banana Oatmeal Granola Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
• Safe + Fair Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Granola
• 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (look for allergy-friendly brands)
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, oats, chocolate chips, Safe + Fair Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Granola, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly with the back of the spoon.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow the cookies to cool before serving. 

Veggie Kabobs

Ingredients:

• Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, etc.), cut into bite-sized pieces
• Optional: cubed extra-firm tofu (drained & pressed to remove excess liquid)
• Wooden skewers
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Thread the vegetables & tofu cubes (if including) onto the skewers, alternating colors and varieties.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately 

Sunflower Seed Butter and Jelly Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• Gluten-free & allergen-free bread
• Sunflower seed butter
• Allergen-free jelly or jam

Instructions:

1. Spread sunflower seed butter on one slice of bread and jelly or jam on another.
2. Sandwich the slices together and cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
3. Serve as is or pack them for a picnic or lunchbox treat.

Rice Paper Veggie Wraps

Ingredients:

• Rice paper wrappers
• Assorted vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, avocado, etc.), thinly sliced
• Cooked rice noodles (optional)
• Dipping sauce of your choice (ensure it's allergen-free)

Instructions:

1. Fill a shallow dish with warm water.
2. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until it softens.
3. Place the softened wrapper on a clean surface and layer with vegetables and rice noodles, if using
4. Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling and roll tightly to enclose.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
6. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy these fresh and healthy wraps!

Birthday Cake Popcorn Balls

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Safe + Fair Birthday Cake Drizzled Popcorn
• 1/2 cup plant-based butter
• 1 bag (10-12 oz) mini marshmallows
• Sprinkles for decoration (optional)

Instructions:

1. If you haven't already, air-pop 6 cups of popcorn. Remove any unpopped kernels or burnt pieces.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Don't let it brown!
3. Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the marshmallow mixture over the Safe + Fair Birthday Cake Drizzled Popcorn in a large bowl. Gently fold the popcorn and marshmallow mixture together until everything is evenly coated.
5. Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray. While the mixture is still warm and pliable, quickly form it into balls of your desired size. Work quickly, as the marshmallow mixture cools and hardens fast.
6. Roll the popcorn balls in sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
7. Let the popcorn balls cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature.

With a little imagination and these easy recipes, you can turn mealtime into a fun, inclusive experience for the whole family. So grab your aprons, gather your little sous chefs, and get ready to create some delicious memories (and maybe a few culinary masterpieces) in the kitchen!