Hey, seafood lovers! For this month’s “Dishing with…” feature, we caught up with Jessica Levinson, MS, RDN, CDN, of Nutritioulicious, a New York-based nutrition communications and consulting business. Jessica is a registered dietitian nutritionist with a passion for inspiring others to get their hands dirty in the kitchen cooking up delicious, healthy food.
Tell us about you and your blog.
I am a registered dietitian nutritionist and mom of twin girls. I blog at Nutritioulicious, where I share my nutritious and delicious recipes and healthy eating tips. I’m passionate about getting in the kitchen to cook homemade meals that are nutrient-rich, but also incredibly delicious, and I hope to inspire others to do the same.
What is your favorite seafood dish to make at home or order at a restaurant?
My favorite fish recipe to make at home is 5-Ingredient Orange Maple Salmon. Between the few ingredients involved and the short prep and cook time, you can’t get easier than this dish. Plus, it’s a hit with the kids, which is always one of my top goals when I’m cooking. At a restaurant, I love fish tacos or miso-glazed fish. Both are so delicious and easy enough to make at home, too.
Any words of wisdom for parents who have picky eaters? How did you get your kids to eat seafood?
Try not to stress about picky eating and definitely don’t be a short order cook – catering to your child’s limited preferences often leads to them continuing to be picky because they know they’ll get something else instead. I always tell parents to make one meal for the whole family and make sure there’s at least one item on the table that you know your children will eat. It’s ok if that’s all they eat at that meal – the next meal is another opportunity for them to fill in on whatever food groups they may have missed.
I started feeding my girls fish very early on, so it’s something they have been used to eating pretty much from the start. Serving the fish with sauces or toppings that are flavorful and including familiar foods they love with the fish also helps. For example, what kid doesn’t love pasta? Adding fish to a pasta dish, like my Nicoise Pasta Salad, is a great way to incorporate a new or less preferred food into something they already love.
Why is seafood so beneficial for everyone, especially kids?
Seafood is a great source of lean protein, and many types of fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health, brain health (especially for kids), memory and more.
What is your go-to seafood meal for busy nights?
My 5-Ingredient Orange Maple Salmon.
What’s next on your “must-make” seafood list?
Fish en papillote – I love getting this at a restaurant, but forget to make it at home!
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