Life
11 Ways To Make Your Food Green Without Food Coloring On St. Patrick's Day
Spring is fast approaching and with it comes an anticipation of all things green (not to mention the "greenest" holiday of all is this month: St. Patrick's Day). There's something so fresh, healthy and rejuvenating about the color and if you're anything like me, you'll be wanting to green-ify anything and everything within reach— including your food. But if you're wanting to steer clear of food coloring and other dyes, never fear. You'll be happy to know there are plenty of other ways to make your food green without using food coloring.
Since food coloring is the unfortunate "go-to" for dying most of our foods, especially baked goods, most people aren't aware of the debate surrounding it's affect on your health. No matter your feelings on food dyes, experimenting in the kitchen can be fun and some of these more natural ways to color your food will also add loads of flavor that food coloring never could.
So whether you're searching for the perfect recipes for your St. Patrick's Day party, or are just looking for some fresh and "Spring-y" meal inspiration for your family, this round up will add enough green to your table to last you all season long.
1Use Matcha Powder
Matcha powder is an effective, healthy and tasty way to dye things like frosting or smoothies. This recipe for chocolate cupcakes with matcha frosting from A Cozy Kitchen would be a great place to start.
2Use Green Garlic
If you're looking to make something savory, like a soup, use green garlic and kale, like in this recipe for kale and green garlic soup from Wild Greens and Sardines. If it sounds gourmet, that's because it is.
3Use Kale or Spinach
A great way to get your veggie quota in for the day and be festive AF is to use a handful of kale or spinach in your fruity drinks. This green smoothie recipe from What's Cooking Good Looking is a great reference.
4Use Pesto
For dishes like egg salad, chick pea salad, or sauces, use a little pesto. Not only does it taste amazing, but it will dye your food green like nothing else. This recipe for smashed chick pea salad sandwiches from Two Peas and Their Pod is a tasty place to start. Or use this pesto recipe from The Comfort of Cooking to make your own.
5Use Zucchini
For appetizers or a filling snack try this recipe for zucchini quinoa fritters from The Scrumptious Pumpkin.
6Use Avocado
I bet you didn't know you could dye your desserts with avocado, did you? This recipe from Pastry Affair shows you how to make delicious frosting with avocados instead of food coloring.
7Use Pistachios
Make delicious (and green) homemade ice cream from pistachios with this recipe from Table for Two or pistachio cheesecake dip with this recipe from Something Swanky.
8Use Mint Chips
They're like chocolate chips, but minty and green. Perfect for St. Patrick's Day, no? Try this recipe for thin mint muddy buddies from Something Swanky if you're looking for some minty inspiration.
9Use Fresh Basil Or Parsley
For a quick appetizer, whip up this green goddess dip from Averie Cooks with basil and just a few other ingredients. Or, if you're in the mood for something sweet, try this basil ice cream from A Beautiful Plate.
10Use Jolly Ranchers
For a festive adult friendly beverage, make your own Jolly Rancher infused vodka with this recipe from Family Fresh Meals.
11Use Fresh Mint
Try this twist on the classic St. Patrick's Day drink with this all natural shamrock shake recipe from Hello Glow.
