You Won't Believe These 7 Healthy Halloween Snacks That Will Shock Your Kids—#3 Is a Game Changer!

Halloween is just around the corner, and while kids are excited about candy and costumes, parents often seek healthier alternatives to satisfy their little ghosts and goblins. Registered Dietitian Stephanie Nelson appeared on Good Day Wisconsin to share some nutritious yet tasty Halloween treats and family-friendly activities that keep the spirit of the holiday alive without sacrificing health.

One standout recommendation from Nelson is the recipe for turkey meatballs, which can be a fun family cooking activity and a delicious snack. This recipe includes:

• 1 zucchini (about 1/2 pound)
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 peeled shallot
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

To prepare, preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Start by grating the zucchini and removing excess moisture with a paper towel or cheese cloth, aiming for about one cup of grated zucchini. Mince the shallot and combine all ingredients, mixing until well blended. Form the mixture into meatballs about one inch in diameter. Brown them in a skillet with cooking oil for about 5-6 minutes before transferring them to a baking dish to finish cooking for another 10 minutes. A meat thermometer should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety. These meatballs can be stored in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days.

For those looking to get creative, Nelson suggests an easy twist—turning the meatballs into Monster Spaghetti. Just a few minutes before the meatballs finish baking, top them with mozzarella rounds until they melt slightly, and add sliced black olives for "monster eyes." Serve this over pasta with your choice of sauce, making for a fun and festive meal.

Alongside the healthy snacks, Nelson encourages families to engage in enjoyable, non-scary activities. She recommends filling the bathtub with glow sticks for a bright, spooky experience or taking a leisurely walk or drive around the neighborhood to admire Halloween decorations. These activities can create lasting memories while keeping the Halloween spirit alive.

To wind down the festivities, Nelson also shared a list of non-scary bedtime books perfect for a cozy night. Titles include:

• Pete the Cat
• Five Little Pumpkins
• Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli
• Elmo’s Monster Meditation
• Milo’s Monster, Moon!

For movie night, consider classics that balance fun and a hint of spookiness:

• Coco
• Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
• Room on the Broom
• Hocus Pocus
• The Haunted Mansion

As Halloween approaches, these healthy snacks and engaging activities offer a way for families to celebrate the holiday while promoting good eating habits and shared experiences. With a bit of creativity, it’s possible to enjoy treats that are both fun and nutritious, ensuring that Halloween remains a delightful occasion for all.