Dana Angelo White, a clinical assistant professor of athletic training and sports medicine at Quinnipiac University, has published her first book, “First Bites: Superfoods for Babies and Toddlers.”
“First Bites,” published by Perigee Books, includes more than 75 quick and easy recipes, including vegetable and black bean quesadillas, arugula pesto pasta and slow-cooker pulled pork. White also outlines 50 foods for raising healthy eaters, nutrition tips for growing bodies and meal planning for busy parents.
White said most of the recipes have been taste-tested on her daughters, Madeline and Charlie, and her husband, Zack.
“My overall goal is to keep mealtime fun and an experience that everyone looks forward to,” White said. “My girls are 3 and 5 years old, so they love to assert their independence everywhere, including the kitchen. I encourage them to continue to enjoy the foods they love, but also challenge them to try new things. We eat as a family as often as possible and the kids always help with some aspect of the meal prep whether it’s sprinkling cheese or setting the table.”
White, who is a registered dietitian, specializes in culinary and sports nutrition. Her recipes and articles have been featured in magazines, books and on television shows and websites. She is a regular contributor to the Food Network’s “Healthy Eats” blog. She also has her own website www.danawhitenutrition.com.
“Introducing new foods can be intimidating to parents, but there is no need to stress,” White said. “Starting off slowly with small amounts is the best way to gauge tolerance for taste and texture as well as well as allergic reactions or food sensitivities.”
White earned her bachelor’s of science degree in athletic training from Quinnipiac as well as a master’s degree from Teachers College, Columbia University.