My kids always love to have a dip or sauce with their food, but it’s always alarming how quickly those junky calories can add up (especially with my son’s typical 2:1 ratio of ranch dressing to whatever he’s covering it with). Over the years I’ve built of my arsenal of healthy dip alternatives my kids will actually eat, and that I feel better letting them have.
Here are nine awesome recipes for substitutes for some of kids’ favorite dips, dressings, and toppings. Not only are these healthy dips nutritious, but they’ll also make whatever food they’re served with even better. I’m also excited to share a couple of equally healthy, prepared sauces and dips that are absolutely fantastic when you’re really pressed for time.
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9 Substitutes for Unhealthy Dips, Dressings and Toppings that Kids Will Actually Eat
Kids sure do love to have a dip or sauce with their food, so why not make sure it's a healthy one!? Here are 9 awesome recipes for substitutes for some of their favorites! Not only are they nutritious, but they'll make whatever food they're served with even better! I'm also excited to share a couple of equally healthy, prepared sauces and dips that are absolutely fantastic when your really pressed for time!
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Honey-Cinnamon Yogurt Dip
When my kids ask me about cookie batter dips, I pull out this sweet but much healthier substitute. Dipping apples into this honey-cinnamon deliciousness makes for a nutritious treat. It's great for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
Get the recipe at Kristine's Kitchen
Photo: Kristine's Kitchen
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Paleo Peach Barbecue Sauce
Instead of grabbing for a typical bottle of barbecue sauce with a list of ingredients I can't pronounce, I'll make this homemade version with fresh fruit and no added sugar. I know my kids will love it with grilled ribs or chicken. It's easy to make and can be done within ten minutes.
Get the recipe at Cook Eat Paleo
Photo: Cook Eat Paleo
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Homemade Ketchup
This homemade ketchup is something my kids can dip their food into that actually counts as a veggie. There's no added sugar; plus, you can tweak it to suit your taste buds.Get the recipe at Cupcakes & Kale ChipsPhoto: Cupcakes & Kale Chips
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Not Ketchup: Tangerine Hatch Chile & Cherry Chipotle
If you're going to buy a prepared sauce, make sure it's Not Ketchup! These are their newest varieties, and they're incredibly delicious and sweetened only with real fruit. My kids love them on burgers, and they're also fantastic for dipping, grilling, glazing, roasting, simmering, and stir frying.
Get them at Not Ketchup
Photo: Not Ketchup
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Three-Ingredient Healthy Honey Mustard Dip
Made with Greek yogurt and just a touch of honey, this dip is healthy while still sweet enough for kids to love it. When I offer this with a tray of veggies, my kids will gobble them up. It's also delicious as a salad dressing or on a burger.
Get the recipe at Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Photo: Cupcakes & Kale Chips
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Raw Strawberry-Vanilla Chia Jam
With sweet summer strawberries and the oh-so-good-for-you chia seeds, this jam is too good to pass up. It's just as sweet as store-bought but with no added sugar or preservatives. It's delicious on toast, pancakes, or even in a smoothie.
Get the recipe at Shockingly Delicious
Photo: Shockingly Delicious
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Healthy Garden Veggie Dip
Skip the store-bought tub—you’ll want to dunk everything in sight into this tasty homemade garden veggie dip. It's mayo-free and so delicious. It's perfect for your next party!
Get the recipe at Peas & Crayons
Photo: Peas & Crayons
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Krazy Ketchup
With the added organic vegetables, Krazy Ketchup is super rich in vitamins and high in fiber. My kids love it and think the name is fun. So instead of dousing your meatloaf, hamburgers, and hot dogs in regular ketchup, try this awesome substitute.
Get it at Krazy Ketchup
Photo: BallantinesPR
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Ranch-Style Dip with Greek Yogurt and Dill (Low Carb)
Made with low fat cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, I would love serving this nutritious dip to my kids. Instead of a packaged dip mix, the recipe calls for a few delicious spices and herbs that take it to the next level. It's an excellent appetizer dip for your next gathering.
Get the recipe at Kalyn's Kitchen
Photo: Kalyn's Kitchen
