Looking for menu planning inspiration? In this article, we’ll look at an extensive list of Educação Infantil menu ideas for Outono (Autumn).
Want help planning out your menus? We’ve created a Educação Infantil menu planner that you can use to store meal ideas, take notes and plan your term meals.
Contents
In the busy rooms of preschools, beyond the pastel-colored walls and amidst the laughter and playful chatters, there lies an aspect often overlooked, yet paramount to a child’s holistic development: meal planning. At this tender age, children are not just absorbing experiences, numbers and alphabets; they are forming habits, preferences, and relationships with food that will significantly impact their lifelong health and well-being. In these formative years, the significance of intentional, nutritious, and diverse meal planning cannot be overstated. By prioritizing this essential element, educators and caregivers are not merely feeding young bodies, but also nourishing young minds, fortifying their future and setting them on a path of wellness, discovery, and a positive relationship with food. Let’s look at some examples of healthy, cost-effective meals, using local seasonal ingredients, that you can put on the menu for children during Outono (Autumn) in your Educação Infantil kitchen in Brazil.
1. Feijão com arroz e legumes (Beans with rice and vegetables): A traditional Brazilian meal consisting of cooked beans, rice, and a variety of seasonal vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and zucchini. It provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
2. Sopa de abóbora (Pumpkin soup): A warm and comforting soup made with locally available pumpkins, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, and perfect for the cooler autumn weather.
3. Salada de beterraba e laranja (Beet and orange salad): A refreshing salad made with roasted beets, fresh oranges, and a sprinkle of olive oil. It is packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.
4. Omelete de espinafre (Spinach omelet): A nutritious and protein-rich meal made with eggs, fresh spinach, and a touch of cheese. It can be served with whole wheat bread or as a side dish with rice.
5. Escondidinho de carne moída com mandioca (Cassava and ground beef casserole): A comforting casserole made with lean ground beef, mashed cassava, and a layer of melted cheese on top. It is a complete meal that provides protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients.
6. Panquecas de banana (Banana pancakes): A delicious and healthy breakfast option made with mashed bananas, whole wheat flour, and a hint of cinnamon. These pancakes are a great source of fiber and potassium.
7. Suco de laranja com cenoura (Orange and carrot juice): A refreshing and vitamin-packed juice made with freshly squeezed oranges and grated carrots. It is a great way to incorporate fruits and vegetables into children’s diets.
8. Sanduíche de frango com abacate (Chicken and avocado sandwich): A nutritious and filling sandwich made with grilled chicken breast, mashed avocado, and whole wheat bread. It provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
9. Salada de frutas (Fruit salad): A colorful and refreshing salad made with a variety of seasonal fruits like apples, bananas, grapes, and papayas. It is a great way to introduce children to different fruits and boost their vitamin intake.
10. Bolo de cenoura com cobertura de chocolate (Carrot cake with chocolate frosting): A healthier version of a classic cake made with grated carrots, whole wheat flour, and a light chocolate frosting. It is a tasty treat that incorporates vegetables and whole grains.
11. Peixe assado com batatas (Baked fish with potatoes): A simple and nutritious meal made with locally available fish, seasoned with herbs and lemon, and served with roasted potatoes. It is a good source of lean protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids.
12. Arroz doce com canela (Sweet rice pudding with cinnamon): A comforting dessert made with cooked rice, milk, sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is a traditional Brazilian dessert that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
13. Salada de tomate e pepino (Tomato and cucumber salad): A light and refreshing salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a drizzle of olive oil. It is a great source of vitamins and minerals.
14. Pão de queijo (Cheese bread): A popular Brazilian snack made with tapioca flour, cheese, and eggs. These small, gluten-free bread rolls are delicious and can be served as a snack or part of a meal.
15. Canja de galinha (Chicken and rice soup): A comforting and nourishing soup made with chicken, rice, carrots, and celery. It is a great option for boosting the immune system during the autumn season.
These meal ideas provide a variety of nutritious options using commonly-used, seasonal local ingredients in Brazil during autumn. They aim to promote healthy eating habits and cater to the taste preferences of 3-5 year-old children at kindergarten
Click the button above to get our planner that can be used to store menu ideas, take notes and plan your term meals.
| Location | Brazil |
|---|---|
| Diet | Regular |
