There are plenty of fun food ideas to celebrate St. Patricks Day without artificial colors and food dye! Whether you’re looking for a savory main dish, a refreshing drink, or a sweet dessert, I’ve got you covered with our St. Patricks Day Food Ideas!
From rainbows and shamrocks, to leprechauns, it’s easy to get carried away and turn any food item the perfect color for your holiday! But there is another way….. These naturally colored, dye-free St. Patrick’s Day foods will make any kids St. Patrick’s Day just a little extra festive, without the downsides of food dye.
Food Dyes and Kids
Food dyes have been a topic of concern for many years, particularly for parents who are worried about the impact that they may have on their kids health. While the research on this topic is still ongoing, there is some evidence to suggest that food dyes may cause a variety of negative effects in children, including:
- Hyperactivity: Some studies have shown that food dyes may contribute to hyperactive behavior in children, particularly those who are already predisposed to hyperactivity.
- Allergic reactions: Food dyes have been known to cause allergic reactions in some children, ranging from mild symptoms such as hives to more severe reactions such as anaphylaxis.
- Behavioral issues: Some children may experience behavioral issues, such as irritability or mood swings, after consuming foods containing food dyes.
- Impaired learning and cognitive function: There is some evidence to suggest that food dyes may impair cognitive function and learning in children, particularly when consumed in large amounts over a long period of time.
I think it is important to remember that not all kids will be affected by food dyes in the same way, and some may not be affected at all.
Dye Free St. Patricks Day Food
Sweet Spinach Pancakes
These bright green pancakes are made with whole wheat flour and fresh spinach! Get your kids loving greens at breakfast with no fuss.
The Best Green Smoothie
After trying dozens of recipes, we finally tweaked this Green Smoothie recipe to perfection. This smoothie is delicious creamy, nutrient-packed, and 100% kid-friendly. It’s one of favorite ways to fill in those nutritional gaps!
Green Goddess Hummus
Bright, fresh and smooth, this hummus was inspired by the viral Green Goddess salad. The flavors are the perfect dip for crackers, veggies and bread.
Healthy Spinach Artichoke Fondue
Healthy Spinach Artichoke Fondue with healthy dippers like apples, celery, broccoli make for a delicious and festive dinner night in with family!
Breakfast Egg Bars
These Egg Bars are a delicious and healthy way to introduce 2 green veggies to your kids. Perfect for St Patrick’s when they are expecting to eat green food!
Sweet Spinach Muffins
These kid-favorite Sweet Spinach Muffins are packed with spinach, creamy banana, cinnamon and honey and are so soft, fluffy and moist that they are perfect for babies, toddlers and kids and even adults!
Oven Roasted Asparagus
A sweet brown sugar glaze takes this Oven Roasted Asparagus recipe to the next level. This is a delicious side dish that everyone, kids included, will love!
Broccoli Salad
Broccoli Salad is made with savory bacon pieces, crunchy sunflower seeds, chewy craisins, cheddar cheese and fresh crisp broccoli tossed with a sweet-tangy homemade dressing without mayo!
Broccoli Mashed Potatoes
Fresh broccoli gives creamy mashed potatoes a boost of flavor and nutrition. Make this savory side in one pot!
Mini Shepherd’s Pies
The classic Shepherd’s Pie just got a healthy twist and we made it bite-sized for the kids. Top with our Broccoli Mashed Potatoes for a super festive St. Patrick’s dinner.
Veggie Deviled Eggs
Make these delicious deviled eggs green with veggies instead of food dye!
Green Spinach Eggs
Celebrate eating greens with some green eggs for breakfast! You can even use a clover shaped mold to be more festive.
6 Super Healthy Green Ice Cream Recipes for Kids
Wow your kids with these vibrant and fun frozen treats made with frozen fruit and leafy greens! Green produce like spinach, kiwi, avocado and kale bring super nutrition and gorgeous color to these healthy desserts. Grab a spoon and dig in! Leafy greens are the ultimate super food, and most kids don’t get enough. In
Green Julius Recipe
A healthy Orange Julius – plus some extra greens! This frothy “Green Julius” is sweet, citrus-y, and creamy – packing in Greek yogurt and spinach for a healthful boost. You’ll never need a sugary, processed Orange Julius again.
Pot o’ Gold Stuffed Peppers
Bright, golden stuffed peppers brim with whole grain brown rice, lean turkey, and kid-friendly spices for a healthy and festive dinner.
Shamrock Shake: A Healthy Makeover
This delicious minty smoothie is packed with nutrients but will still satisfy your sweet tooth in place of the traditional sugary shamrock shake!
Super Easy Homemade Pesto Pasta
You won’t believe how easy it is to make with just 5 ingredients and you have a delicious Pesto Pasta dinner in less than 30 minutes!
Healthy Irish Potato Bites for Kids
Healthy Irish Potato Bites baked with spinach that the kids will love! This is the protein packed meal they’ll be asking for again and again.
Crockpot Rainbow Risotto {With Peppers}
Rainbow Bell Peppers Pizza Recipe
Adding bell peppers to this homemade pizza recipe can turn it into a rainbow!
Rainbow Oatmeal Bar Recipe
Put a little fun into your kids breakfast by giving them choices of their breakfast fruits! The amazing thing about fruits and vegetables is the color! The amazing Kia from Today I ate a Rainbow said about her own daughter: We knew that if she ate produce from all the main color groups every day,
Lunch Box Idea: Mini Rainbow Sandwiches
When you are looking for lunch box ideas, consider your fruits ad veggies first. Eating a rainbow is something we talk about a lot at our house! The beautiful, natural colors of fruits and vegetables all offer different phytochemicals and antioxidants necessary for optimal health! From Fruits and Veggies More Matters: “Eating fruits and veggies in
Rainbow Fruit Kabobs
Rainbow fruit kabobs are a fun and festive way to eat fruit and a great source of vitamins and minerals for adults and kids!
Rainbow Green Bean Salad Recipe
Eat your colors with this vibrant salad that combines raw and lightly-steamed veggies in a simple lemony dressing.
Natalie Monson
I’m a registered dietitian, mom of 4, avid lover of food and strong promoter of healthy habits. Here you will find lots of delicious recipes full of fruits and veggies, tips for getting your kids to eat better and become intuitive eaters and lots of resources for feeding your family.