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A "State Dinner" Just For Kids

Calling all kid chefs: The Healthy Lunchtime Challenge invites parents of kids ages 8-12 to submit an original recipe for a lunch that is nutritious and delicious. All entrants have the chance to win a trip to Washington D.C. and the opportunity to be invited to attend a Kids' “State Dinner” at the White House in August, where a selection of the winning healthy recipes will be served.

Let's Move! is teaming up with Epicurious, the Department of Education and USDA to find great lunch ideas that are healthy, affordable, and -- of course -- tasty.

"We all want to ensure that our kids are eating nutritious, delicious food at every meal, and as a mom I know that parents are always looking for new ideas to make that happen,” said First Lady Michelle Obama. “With parents and kids all across the country getting creative in the kitchen, I know we'll find healthy meals that every family will enjoy. And I can’t wait to try the kids’ creations myself.”

The rules are simple: All entrants are encouraged to reference the MyPlate nutritional guidelines to ensure recipes meet the primary criterion of being healthier. Entries should represent each of the food groups, either in one dish or as parts of a lunch meal, including fruit, veggies, whole grains, protein and low-fat dairy foods. 

Recipes can be submitted May 21 through June 17, either online at http://recipechallenge.epicurious.com or via mail. Winners will be notified on July 16. The White House Kids “State Dinner” is currently scheduled to take place in August 2012.