Tops Day Nurseries Healthy Eating & Food Ethos:

At Tops, we have a heartfelt belief in the magic of healthy food. It’s not just about filling tummies; it’s about creating moments of joy and connection. That’s why we’re passionate about serving up meals that celebrate the natural goodness of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

In our kitchens, we see food as more than just fuel—it’s a way of life. We believe in keeping things simple and wholesome, using whole foods that are as close to nature as possible. And when it comes to little ones, we’re on a mission to teach them all about the beauty of good food from the ground up, so they grow into healthy, happy adults.

In today’s world, there’s no shortage of advice on what to eat. But amidst all the noise, we like to keep things simple. Our philosophy is all about going back to basics, choosing ingredients that are fresh, unprocessed, and full of flavor.

So, whether you’re a parent looking to feed your family well or a child discovering the joy of food for the first time, we’re here to help. Let’s embark on a delicious journey together, one plate at a time.

Here are Some Healthy Tips To Keep In Mind!

• Go Organic, if Possible: While organic is fantastic, we understand it’s not always within reach for everyone. Opt for whole veggies and Red Tractor meats—they’re still great choices for a healthy diet. Look for the freshest produce that hasn’t been overly processed.

• Shop Local: Supermarkets are convenient, but don’t forget about local gems! Take the family on a fun outing to a farmers market or farm shop. It’s a great way for kids to learn where their food comes from while adding excitement to mealtime.

• Make Cooking Fun: Turn meal prep into a family activity! Cooking should be enjoyable, not a chore. I love spending time in the kitchen with my boys—it’s a chance to bond and get creative with ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to teach them about healthy eating from a young age.

• Create a Meal Plan: Having a loose plan for meals can make life a lot easier. It gives you time to think about what dishes you want to make and helps with grocery shopping. Plus, it’s flexible enough to accommodate any last-minute changes.

• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Cooking should be an adventure, not a source of stress. Don’t worry about messing up—some of the best meals come from trial and error. Embrace the joy of cooking and have fun exploring new flavors and recipes!

So What Is Healthy to Eat?

1) Protein

Protein is like the building blocks of a healthy diet, essential for growing bodies. Try to include a source of protein in every meal to keep everyone feeling strong and satisfied:

• Free-range eggs: Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
• Greek yogurt: Creamy and delicious, packed with protein and probiotics.
• Chicken (look for Red Tractor certified): A versatile and lean option for main dishes.
• Beans, peas, and lentils: These plant-based proteins offer variety and are a great alternative to traditional meats.
• Cottage cheese: Creamy and versatile, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Game meats: Explore flavors with venison, rabbit, or pheasant for a unique dining experience.

2) Whole Veggies

We’re all about whole, unprocessed veggies at Tops. Look for veggies with the mud still attached—that’s a sign they’re fresh and full of nutrients! Variety is key, so enjoy them seasonally for the best flavor and value. Get creative with your cooking methods:

• Roast them, steam them, grill them, or sear them—it’s all about exploring flavors and textures.
• Don’t forget about leafy greens and seasonal veggies—they’re packed with vitamins and minerals.

3) Fiber

Fiber keeps our bodies happy and healthy, aiding digestion and keeping us feeling full and satisfied. Here are some fiber-rich foods to include in your meals:

• Broccoli: Crunchy and delicious, broccoli is packed with fiber and antioxidants.
• Avocados: Creamy and nutritious, avocados are a great source of healthy fats and fiber.
• Berries: Bursting with flavor and fiber, berries are a delicious addition to breakfast or snacks.
• Apples: Crisp and refreshing, apples are a great source of fiber and vitamins.
• Potatoes: Whether baked, mashed, or roasted, potatoes are a filling and fiber-rich option.
• Seeds: Sprinkle seeds like chia, flax, or pumpkin seeds onto salads or yogurt for an extra fiber boost.

4) Calcium

Strong teeth and bones are essential for growing little one’s. Make sure your meals include a source of calcium!

• Natural yogurt: Creamy and delicious, yogurt is packed with calcium and probiotics for gut health.
• Milk Alternatives: Any alternative to dairy milk, that is fortified with calcium and vitamins.
• Tofu: Versatile and nutritious, tofu is a great source of calcium and plant-based protein.

By including these nutrient-rich foods in your meals, you’ll be setting your family up for a lifetime of healthy eating habits.

Tops Healthy Recipe Suggestions!

With these basics in place, you’re on track for a healthy diet that can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Here are two easy, nutritious meals for you and your family to enjoy!

Venison Tacos:

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful meal with Jenny’s Sweet Potato Curry recipe! Creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender sweet potatoes blend harmoniously in this dish, perfect for sharing with the whole family. To learn more about our venison menus find out more here!

Jenny’s Sweet Potato Curry:

These tacos are a fantastic option for a quick and flavorful meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a delicious taco night!

Home cooked nutritionally balanced food doesn’t have to be a chore and it certainly doesn’t have to be scary. It should be fun and explore different ingredients and different cultures. Food brings us together and creates memories that last forever. Explore, create and enjoy the food you cook!

Did you know you can receive quick, easy and nutritious recipes straight to your inbox just by filling in the form below? It’s really that easy…