Gulf Coast Family

Okay, I’ll be the first to admit it: allowing your kids to set foot in the kitchen is often more trouble than it’s worth. If they’re helping you to prepare a meal, or even just a snack, they will usually just create more work than they save. But I also know that a lot of kids really enjoy helping out in the kitchen. It gives them a sense of accomplishment, and they get to enjoy the immediate rewards of their labor. Besides, if you teach them now, then one day (and that day will come sooner than you realize), they will be able to be a real helper instead of just a pretend helper! Here are a few simple recipes that will allow you to involve your kids without creating too much extra work. Summer is the best time to enjoy a juicy melon. This salad is very simple, but still looks elegant when served. You’ll want to cut the bowls and scoop the melon balls that will go on top, but kids can scoop some of the balls and arrange the salads themselves.

Melon Salad

• 2 whole cantaloupe
• 1⁄2 honeydew melon
• 1⁄4 watermelon
• Leafy lettuce
• Strawberries
• Mint leaves

1. Cut each cantaloupe in half and scoop out the seeds. Cut a decorative edge if desired and line with lettuce leaves.
2. Scoop the honeydew and watermelon into balls. Place balls into cantaloupe bowls.
3. Line four serving plates with lettuce and place one salad on each. Garnish as desired with strawberries and mint leaves.

Makes four servings.

If you pre-measure the ingredients, even young children can enjoy preparing these chocolaty treats all by themselves.

No-Cook Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

• 1⁄4 cup butter (no substitutes)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon milk
• 1⁄4 cup creamy peanut butter

1. Place butter in a microwave-safe mixing bowl and microwave on high for 30 to 45 seconds. Add the remaining ingredients in order, mixing well after each addition.
2. Scoop out rounded teaspoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Press down or shape as desired.
3. Refrigerate for one hour.

Makes about two dozen.

Have a great recipe your kids love to make and eat? Send it to us at articles@gulfcoastfamily.org, and we may feature your young cooks in a future issue!