Getting kids to eat healthy is a battle I know all too well. From artistic uses of fruit, to “hiding” vegetables, parents seem to have to go through extreme lengths just to add some nutritious foods into our children’s diet.

While eating produce is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, and sometimes we do need to get creative with our recipes, there is an even easier way to add nutrition to your family meals, and chances are, you already are doing it.

Herbs and spices, the stuff you pull from your pantry to add flavor to your favorite dishes are packed with the vitamins and minerals our families need to promote healthy living. From improving digestion, reducing inflammation, to boosting immunity, just a pinch or two of these small, but mighty spices cand do wonders for your nutrition.

Read on for some delicious ideas to add flavor and health to your family meals.

The amount of spices available for cooking is endless, and I am still discovering new ways to add unique flavors to my meals. Other than the basics, like garlic, oregano, basil, etc., I would say my most used spice is turmeric. I love the warm, earthy flavor it adds to my recipes, such as this roasted cauliflower dish.

Turmeric, along with other spices including cumin and ginger, is a staple in most curry recipes. I make a simple, curried tomato-based sauce using canned tomato sauce, coconut cream and a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, ginger, cumin, turmeric and cinnamon, but you may prefer to give some of these recipes a try.

With winter weather arriving around much of the United States, I know many of us are looking for warm, cozy drinks to sip by the fire. I am excited to try this breakfast latte, from Eatmovelive52.com, which is packed with warm spices and caffeine free, so it can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Spices are great for babies and toddlers too, and are a healthy way to add flavor to their meals. Raising Veggie Lovers, has tons of recipes for the whole family, including this fall-spice-flavored baby-friendly puree that is perfect for this time of year.

What about kids who hate anything “spicey?” Well even salt, yes, salt, has a lot of health benefits. This is especially true for unfiltered sea salt, which is packed with minerals.

For more ideas, check out my post, “5 Kid-friendly foods you can make at home.”

Does your family enjoy foods made with a variety of spices? Do you have a favorite recipe or meal? Please feel free to share in the comments.