Start by preparing the oven. Set it to 180°C with the convection function (or 200°C in top-bottom mode). Prepare a large baking tray and line it with baking paper. Wash all the vegetables thoroughly under running water. Peel the sweet potato and carrot using a peeler. Cut off the tough ends. You don't need to peel the zucchini, especially if it has young, thin skin.
Description
This is not just an ordinary lunch; it's a culinary adventure designed for little hands learning independence! 'Rainbow Explorer Sticks' is a set of healthy, baked vegetable fries made from sweet potatoes, carrots, and zucchini, which delight with their colors and are perfect for grabbing. They are accompanied by tender, juicy turkey meatballs that provide valuable protein. The dish is complemented by a velvety green dip made from avocado and natural yogurt, which not only tastes wonderful but also encourages hand-eye coordination through the fun of dipping. The meal has been crafted to provide a balanced dish rich in vitamins (A, C, B group), fiber, and healthy fats while minimizing mess. It's the perfect way to support a child's motor development in a positive atmosphere and build healthy eating habits from an early age.
Składniki (13)
- Sweet potato 200 g
- Carrot 1.3 szt.
- Zucchini 0.6 szt.
- Ground turkey 200 g
- Egg 1 szt.
- Breadcrumbs or semolina 2 łyżki
- Olive oil 15 ml
- Avocado 0.4 szt.
- Thick natural yogurt 60 g
- Lemon juice 5 ml
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Sweet paprika powder 0.5 łyżeczka
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- Salt 0.0 szczypt
- Nasiona sezamu 0.2 łyżek
💡 Kliknij na składnik aby oznaczyć jako użyty
Preparation steps
Preparation of vegetable sticks
Cut the vegetables into sticks. First, cut each vegetable crosswise into shorter pieces, about 5-7 cm long. Then, cut each piece into thick slices (about 1 cm thick), and finally, cut each slice into sticks about 1 cm wide. Try to make all the sticks of similar thickness - this way they will bake at the same time. Transfer the finished sticks to a large bowl.
Add olive oil and a pinch of sweet paprika to the bowl with vegetables. Now for the most enjoyable part: gently but thoroughly mix everything with your hands, so that each piece is evenly coated with a thin layer of oil and seasoning. If you like, you can now sprinkle the vegetables with optional sesame seeds and mix again.
Preparation of chicken meatballs
In a second, smaller bowl, place the ground turkey. Add the egg, breadcrumbs (or semolina), and, if using, an optional pinch of salt. Knead the mixture with your hand for about 2-3 minutes until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture becomes uniform and slightly sticky.
Wet your hands with cold water. Take small portions of the meat mixture, about the size of a walnut (approximately 15-20 grams), and roll them between your hands to form neat, smooth balls. Try to ensure that all the meatballs are of a similar size, which will ensure even baking.
Baking
Arrange the prepared vegetable sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer, leaving some space between them. Next to them, place the formed meatballs, also keeping some distance. Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
Preparing the dip
While the sticks and meatballs are baking, prepare the dip. Cut the ripe avocado in half and remove the pit. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh into a small bowl. Mash it thoroughly with a fork until it becomes a smooth, creamy paste. Add thick natural yogurt and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix everything vigorously until a uniform, smooth sauce of light green color is formed.
Composition and serving
Remove the baking tray from the oven. Check if everything is ready: the sticks should be soft in the middle (poke one with a fork), and the meatballs should be fully cooked and slightly golden. Set everything on the tray aside for at least 5-10 minutes to cool down. It is VERY IMPORTANT to prevent the child from getting burned. Transfer a portion of warm (but not hot!) sticks and meatballs to the child's plate, and serve the dip in a small, stable bowl next to it.
Fun Fact
Eating a 'rainbow', meaning meals made up of fruits and vegetables in various colors, is a simple way to provide the body with a wide range of vitamins and antioxidants. Each color corresponds to different valuable nutrients: orange (beta-carotene), green (folic acid and vitamin K), and red (lycopene).
Best for
Tips
Serve the dish on a colorful, child-friendly plate, preferably with compartments. Arrange the sticks in the shape of a sun, tower, or house, and create a fun face with the meatballs and dip. Let the child eat with their hands – it's the best learning and fun! Show them how to dip the sticks in the dip, and they will surely be eager to imitate you.
Baked sticks and meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best to reheat them for a few minutes in the oven to regain some crispiness. The avocado dip is best fresh after preparation, as it darkens over time. It can be stored in the refrigerator until the next day by covering the surface with plastic wrap so that it touches the dip – this will limit air exposure.
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