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Ask An OC Expert: School Lunches To Prepare In 10 Minutes Or Less

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Author of upcoming book Creative Bites for Modern Families, Chef Denise Portillo is more than a chef in the kitchen. The single mother and entrepreneur has been recognized not just for her business, but her devotion to motherhood. She spends time teaching cooking to children with special needs, runs a cafe and finds time to dedicate to her own family. The Le Cordon Bleu- California School of Culinary Arts graduate has opened up the Forkin' Good Cafe and is seen to be a leader in the emerging international organic cuisine world.

Chef Denise Portillo
Forkin' Good Cafe
6744 Greenleaf Ave.
Whittier, CA 90601
(562) 696-4107
forkingoodcafe.com

Local chef Denise Portillo was named the Culinary Woman of the Year by the National Latina Business Women Association in 2011 and has been featured on the CBS show The Talk as a single mother entrepreneur.

Nutella Sandwich With Cherry Tomatoes

The Nutella, fresh banana and strawberry on seven grain bread is a great treat for the kids. Serve it with a side of cherry tomatoes and ranch dipping sauce. This treat serves to be colorful and tastes delicious. It gives the children the necessary nutrients and fulfills the sweet tooth in everyone. Keeping treats fun for the kids is also important when thinking of creative ways to make snacks and lunch for school.

Veggie Pasta Salad With Whole Wheat Blueberry Bagels

Children want to eat things that look like fun, and colorful food has a big impact on enjoyment. Fresh veggies (whatever is in season) should be sauteed the evening before, blanched and seasoned, then added to tri-color pasta. Then drizzle with a vinaigrette that could be from an apple vinegar base. The toasted blueberry bagel with organic or whipped cream cheese is a great addition. Lastly, small apple slices drizzled with caramel will be a big hit with the kids.

Bagel Treat With Celery Slices

Exposing children to farmers markets, and how wonderful and healthy food can be, will create an everlasting enjoyment of eating. The healthier alternatives and quick meals at an early age will set the foundation necessary for healthy weight and will help the children maintain focus in the classroom. The whole wheat bagel spread with marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, sliced thin and thin sliced baked tomato is a great start. For a nice treat, include slices of celery smeared with almond butter and topped with fresh raspberries to round out the meal.

Related: Best Hidden Gems For Kids In The Inland Empire

Chicken Burrito And Yogurt Parfait

The chicken and black bean wrap is best served with fresh blueberries, strawberries and granola with fresh vanilla yogurt parfait. Speaking to children about the amazing types of foods that are out there creates a buzz and excitement for them to be in the kitchen with you while you prepare their meals. What to include? Shredded or chopped chicken with smashed black beans, feta cheese, chopped lettuce wrapped in a spinach tortilla. Also, a cup of vanilla yogurt layered with granola, blueberry and strawberry

Salami Basil Roll And Salad

Children will understand the importance of good nutrition when you make them a part of the process. One favorite is the salami with fresh basil rolled around in string cheese served with whole wheat crackers. Add some apple, blueberry and pecan salad tossed in raspberry vinaigrette. Getting children excited about nutrition at a young age is the key to living a life with eating habits that will be healthy.

Related: 3 Science Experiments To Try Outdoors With Kids This Summer

Elle Toussi is a freelance journalist covering all things Southern California. She has traveled to the Middle East in 2013 and 2014 covering the Syrian refugee situation in Jordan. That experience inspired her to become the founder of InOneMinute.org which uses the power of mobile technology and philanthropy to meet specific needs of women around the world. Her previous work can also be found on Examiner.com and AXS.com

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