If you have ever traveled with, or have been a picky eater yourself, you probably understand the difficulties of dining. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all are difficult. I have grown out of picky eating habits (or should I say forced out by my mother at the ripe age of 20), but I definitely understand the struggle. So here you have it, the essential food choices for all eaters, but the picky ones especially.
1. Peanut Butter & Jelly
Ah, this classic primary school meal is perfect for picky eaters. But let’s be honest, no matter the age, anyone can enjoy a good PB&J (unless, of course, you’re allergic to nuts). You may even want to switch it up once in a while and go for the hipster version of PB&J, aka (drum roll please), Almond Butter & Jelly.
2. Buttered Noodles
Another essential for picky eaters alike. If you are feeling adventurous, and are not lactose-intolerant (as most people these days seem to self-diagnose themselves), sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese for a special treat. If you are not feeling adventurous, I am sorry, I did not mean to spook you with the suggestion.
3. Grilled Cheese
Similar to the childhood favorite, PB&J, this one can also be found between two pieces of bread. However, this one offers a little more freedom. Cheddar? American? Mozzarella? Take your pick. Maybe even add in some Swiss.
4. Tomato Soup
Accompanied well with the ever elusive grilled cheese, this classic soup can even be used as a nice dip for those with an inclination to mix up some tastes. Or, for something different, pour in a shot or two of vodka and BOOM, Bloody Mary (kidding, I do not think tomato soup can pass as Bloody Mary Mix…would not recommend trying).
5. Plain Bagel
Toasted, steamed, or left as is, bagels are always a fan favorite. Add butter, cream cheese, or even peanut butter for a nice breakfast, or add sandwich items to make a delicious lunch. And hey, while you are at it, use it as your bread and butter at dinner that night as well. After all, any day is a great day to have bagel (or in this case, three).
6. Cheese Pizza
A good ole’ slice of cheese pizza. What more could a picky eater want? Do not even THINK about adding on veggies or whipping up some elaborate buffalo chicken topping. ‘Za is ‘za, and some people prefer it as is.
7. Apples & Bananas
Not quite a meal, but this will definitely do for a sufficient snack when dealing with finicky dining folks. Add some peanut butter for some extra protein, if you really wanna go out on a limb here, or have it plain. The choice is up to you, because leaving decisions up to the picky eater is crucial.
8. French Fries
DO NOT PUT THE KETCHUP ALL OVER THE FRIES. I REPEAT: DO NOT PUT THE KETCHUP ALL OVER THE FRIES. That makes picky eaters (and probably even most non-picky eaters) cringe. Leave ’em plain or GTFO.
9. Mac ‘N Cheese
Really just a combo of a few of the items already listed, this is another classic meal. Boil the pasta, add the cheese and mix, mix, mix…easy to make, easy to eat. It is as simple as that.
10. Chicken Fingers
Ah, an oldie but a goodie. Usually found on children’s menus or even sometimes in the appetizer section if you are lucky, these are an all-time-favorite. When you grow up, throw a fancier name on it such as “roasted chicken with artisan bread crumbs,” and no one will even know you are feasting on your five-year-old’s favorite meal. Life hacks.
So there you have it, all the do’s and don’ts (or should I say orders and non-orders, cook and don’t-cooks?) when dealing with picky eaters. One last thought I would like to leave you with is (drumroll please), DO NOT PUT THE KETCHUP ALL OVER THE FRIES. Remember that, and you are pretty much set to go in life. Happy (picky) eating!