Paletas de Mango with Yogurt-a healthy kid's snack your entire family will love!
MA, I'm hungry!!! Ma tengo hambreeee! Are you getting tired of hearing this phrase?
I am! Especially since my daughter is home 24/7. And let's face it, no matter how much you like to cook, we're not used to cooking around the clock, every single day!
We all need a little inspiration, especially when it comes to feeding our kids and creating #healthykidsnacks. For many kids, this hunger plea gets stronger in the afternoon, as dinner approaches. Which is why I love the nutrient combination of this snack idea. The mix of greek yogurt and chia seeds provides protein and healthy fats. The mango will add natural sweetness without the added sugar- But the best part is they will keep your kids happy and satisfied avoiding the"I'm hungry plea!"
Why I love this recipe:
1. Frozen or Fresh Mangoes
If you live in Miami, Mangos will be in abundance. Florida's Mango season starts from May through October. Yet, growing up in the desert of El Paso, TX-Cd. Juarez, Mexico, Mangos were not that common, in fact, they were somewhat of an exotic delicacy. Mangos for me represent summer and are a quintessential Hispanic fruit native to many Latin American countries. But, if you don't live in a place with an abundance of Mangos, no worries! You can always get frozen mangos: Affordable, nutritious, and will yield the same results.
2. No added sugar
Yup! you heard it. These paletas are delicious and have no added sugar. I recommend you use ripe mangos vs. green ones to give an even sweeter taste. Plus, the addition of natural orange juice will boost the sweetness without the need for added sugar.
3. Great Snack Combination
One of my favorite snack principles is to have a combination of health Fat, Fiber, and Protein. Also known as the FFP rule. This is a great principle to follow especially for heartier snacks, like those afterschool, in the afternoon or before/after sports. It will help keep kids satisfied for longer.
4. Only 4 Ingredients with key Nutrition for Kids
These paletas are high in calcium, protein, fiber! Best part is they only have 4 ingredients! A win-win for moms! The chia seeds provide calcium, healthy omega 3, and tons of fiber. Two tablespoons of chia seeds have a whopping 10g of fiber and 6g of protein! The secret weapon to this recipe is in the chia seeds.
I recently teamed up with Hispanic Kitchen and I did a Facebook live with my daughter, Emma Lucia where we shared this easy and delicious recipe. We did this session LIVE because I also wanted to show you, you can make this recipe with your kids! Make sure you check it out, it was hilarious!
If you been following me on Instagram, you know I'm a true believer in inviting kids to the kitchen. The kitchen is a great school where kids will learn about science, math, practical skills, and culture. Don't be afraid to involve your kids in the kitchen!
"Why is it that we buy our kids plastic play kitchens, but we don't allow them to play in the REAL KITCHEN?"
This paleta is perfect as a snack, dessert, or for a hot summer afternoon! Trust me it will be a family favorite! Check out the recipe below and leave me your comments.
If you haven't seen my Instagram video series #matengohambre #cocinandoconnutrichicos make sure you do to get kid & mom-approved snack and meal ideas #kidapprovedmeals.
Mango Paletas - A simple and healthy kids snack!
- 2-3 Mangos (preferably ripe, not green)
- 2/3 cup (6oz) greek yogurt plain- ideally 2% or more to give a creamier consistency
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- Cut the mangos and add to blender.
- Add the greek yogurt, chia seeds and orange juice to the blender.
- Mix well and place in popsicle molds.
- Freeze for 2hrs and enjoy!