Getting kids to try new foods and flavors can be about as easy as putting them to bed early. Practically impossible. That's why I do a few things with our brood:

• Keep It Sweet: When I make Asian noodles at home, I use a combination of honey, soy sauce and a very small amount of fresh ginger.

• Include Known Favorites: I like adding three veggies, including at least one that each child likes and, if possible, one new one for them to try (or try again). That way, everyone is already excited by what they see on the plate.

• Use Whole Wheat: If you're cooking at home, use whole-wheat spaghetti noodles, just to add a bit of bite (and nutrition).

• Try Accessories: Chopsticks anyone? Even if the kids can't pull it off, who doesn't like trying them out?

• Fall Back on Rice: Plain white rice goes a long way. When needed, it dilutes big (and new) flavors and I've never heard of a kid who doesn’t like it.