Kid-Friendly Picnic Recipes

One of the best ways to have fun with the kids, not to mention one of the least expensive, is to have a picnic. Whether it's lunch in the park or just dinner in the backyard, kids love a meal away from the dining room table. There's no need to be fancy. A mix of dips and spreads, cut-up vegetables, and bread are all you need. The following recipes are simple to make, and shhhhh, don't tell the kids, they're healthy, too!

Zucchini-Cilantro Dip

2 small zucchinis, shredded (about 1 ½ cups)
1 cup nonfat cottage cheese
3 green onions chopped
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 clove garlic, minced

Mix ¾ cup of zucchini and remaining ingredients in food processor. Blend until smooth. Scoop into bowl. Stir in remaining shredded zucchini. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve with carrot, celery, and jicama sticks.

Chicken Tarragon Spread

1 cup nonfat ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons low-fat sour cream
2 five-ounce cans white chicken, drained

Place all ingredients in food processor. Blend until smooth. Line 2 cup metal bowl with plastic wrap. Place mixture in bowl and cover. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve with slices of French bread or with bagels or crackers.

Ricotta Dessert Dip

2 cups nonfat ricotta cheese
1/3 cup sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla
4 ounces light cream cheese

Place ingredients in food processor and blend until smooth. Place into individual bowls and serve with a selection of fruit slices for dipping.

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