When it comes to encouraging kids to eat their veggies, parents often face a significant challenge. To make mealtime more successful, consider several key factors. First and foremost, presentation is crucial – ensure that the dish looks appealing to your child’s age group. Additionally, be mindful of how you introduce vegetables into meals, as showing them can lead to immediate rejection.
By taking these factors into account, you’ll be better equipped to get your kids on board with a healthier diet. And, who knows, they might even start helping out in the kitchen! In this section, we’ll explore a range of kid-friendly vegetarian recipes that the whole family will enjoy – from healthy breakfast options and weeknight dinners, to burgers, cheesy pasta, and more.
With these 43 delicious and easy-to-make veggie-based meals, you’ll be well on your way to raising little foodies who love their greens!
Pea and Mint Frittata
With a harmonious blend of fresh flavors, a frittata with peas, mint, and feta is surprisingly easy to prepare. The classic combination of peas and mint provides a versatile canvas for exploring the dish’s various facets, offering numerous opportunities to appreciate its delectable essence.
Bagel Toad in a Hole
A clever morning meal, the Bagel Nest with Egg, is a simple recipe that kids can prepare independently for Mother’s Day or any other day. This delightful dish can be cooked using either stovetop or microwave techniques, making it accessible to everyone. The presentation is almost too beautiful to eat – an egg nestled in a bagel center, surrounded by ‘petals’ of pineapple and raspberry and a scallion stem that adds a touch of greenery.
Not only does this dish look impressive, but it’s also a nutritious and meat-free option that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a mid-morning snack.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Indulge in the sweet union of succulent strawberries and rich chocolate as you transform the former into bite-sized, cocoa-dipped treats. This straightforward process requires only three essential elements and can be completed in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect solution for a quick dessert fix or a thoughtful snack to share with others.
Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream Bars
Indulge in the perfect blend of natural sweetness and creamy texture with these effortless strawberry frozen bars that require just 6 simple ingredients. By combining rich coconut milk with fresh strawberries, you’ll create a dairy-free, plant-based treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. These bite-sized indulgences are the ideal way to beat the heat this summer.
Ricotta Pancakes – Sweet Version
Indulge in these indulgent ricotta pancakes, packed with protein-rich goodness. With our guarantee of delectable and high-protein treats, you can rely on their irresistible charm.
Cheesy Veggie Burger Recipe
Indulge in the vibrant flavors and textures of these delectable Meatless Monday masterpieces. Our Cheesy Vegetable Patties are more than just a meal – they’re a harmonious blend of colorful vegetables, melted cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs that will leave you craving for more. And the best part? They’re completely free from additives and mysterious ingredients, making them a crowd-pleaser for families and friends alike.
Rose And Pistachio Puff Pastry Easy Cream Horns
Indulge in the simplicity of this creamy delight as you wrap store-bought puff pastry around a mold, then air-fry it to a golden and flaky perfection. Once ready, fill it with a luscious rose and pistachio shrikhand mixture, combining the best of both worlds for an unforgettable treat.
Black Bean Burger Recipe
With its robust flavor and versatility, this black bean patty recipe is a great addition to any outdoor gathering or casual meal. Not only can it be adapted to suit vegan diets, but it’s also an excellent choice for your next barbecue or potluck. Its satisfying texture and bold taste make it a crowd-pleaser, so don’t hesitate to share the inspiration with friends and family who are looking for more plant-based patty recipes.
Lentil Carrot Veggie Hot Dogs Recipe
By blending lentils with vegetables, these plant-based hot dogs achieve a remarkably similar texture to traditional hot dogs. The addition of smoked paprika and garlic powder imbues them with a classic flavor profile, but it’s the nutritional boost provided by the legume and vegetable blend that truly sets them apart. With a focus on wholesome ingredients, this innovative take on the humble hot dog offers a satisfying and healthy alternative for those looking to mix things up.
Honey Roast Carrots and Parsnips with Feta and Pomegranate
Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of these honey-glazed carrots and parsnips, perfect for impressing your guests at your next social event or family dinner. As a nutrient-dense winter side dish, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Thai Green Curry with Vegetables and Tofu
Whether you’re a fan of tofu, chicken, or shrimp, this dish is an excellent choice for serving up a flavorful and nutritious meal to your loved ones. One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility – simply substitute in your favorite protein source to suit everyone’s tastes. When it comes to veggies, the options are truly endless. Feel free to get creative with your choices, using a total of around 6 cups’ worth.
Some great options include snap peas, snow peas, frozen corn, broccoli, bell peppers, and cauliflower. And for an added kick, adults might enjoy adding a dash of hot sauce to their servings!
Refried Bean Taco Roll Ups
With this recipe, you can create six delicious taco roll-ups that are easily adjustable to suit your family’s preferences. Before assembling the roll-ups, take a moment to taste and adjust the refried beans’ seasoning by adding salt or cumin as needed. Alternatively, consider serving the individual ingredients separately, allowing each person to customize their own tacos to their liking.
Soft Roasted Chickpeas with Cinnamon (Tasty Vegetarian Recipe!)
When preparing this snack, it’s crucial to achieve a tender texture for the dried beans. To ensure this, you can take a few precautions. If your little ones are under the age of one, consider substituting the honey with maple syrup or even skipping the added sweetener altogether to create a more suitable option for their developing taste buds.
Kids Will Love Easy Sweet Potato Hummus
To begin preparing the sweet potatoes for this recipe, start by microwaving one to achieve a tender texture. To do so, simply dice the sweet potato into small pieces and place them in a 4-cup glass measuring cup. Cover the sweet potato with two inches of water, ensuring it’s completely submerged. Then, cook on high for approximately 5 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of softness.
If you prefer a slightly caramelized flavor, roasting or slow cooking the sweet potatoes using a Crockpot can also yield excellent results.
Kids Friendly Vegetarian Rice and Beans Burritos
To maximize convenience, consider preparing both components together or ahead of time. Once cooked, simply reheat as needed to create a speedy meal. Feel free to experiment with different bean varieties, then top your burritos with a dollop of fresh salsa and/or a dollop of creamy sour cream for added flavor and texture.
Easy Vegetarian Burrito Bowls
To ensure a seamless cooking experience, consider preparing the rice, beans, and vegetables in advance whenever feasible. These components tend to retain their quality when stored in the refrigerator and simply require reheating upon use. It’s also important to note that the nutritional details of this recipe will vary depending on the specific ingredients chosen.
Kid Friendly Easy Breakfast Burritos
While it may seem counterintuitive to label them as ‘breakfast’ burritos given the inclusion of eggs, these wraps transcend traditional morning constraints, making them an excellent option for any meal occasion – whether you’re in the mood for a mid-morning pick-me-up or a satisfying dinner
Big Batch Vegetarian Chili
For little ones, I simplify the dish by removing most of the broth, making mealtime more enjoyable and mess-free. For families who crave a spicy kick, a small amount of cayenne pepper can add an exciting dimension to the dish.
Vegetarian Zucchini Fritters Recipe
When deciding on a preparation method for our Zucchini Fritters, we ultimately choose baking over other options due to its convenience. The simplicity of preparation and cleanup is a major draw. If you find yourself with an excess supply of zucchini, don’t be afraid to scale up the recipe to fill a full muffin tin – it’s the perfect solution for making use of a bounty of this versatile summer squash.
Easy Veggie Muffins
To prepare the vegetables for the recipe, I find it most effective to employ a combination of shredding and dicing techniques. For the carrots, I use a box grater to produce a fine shred that will help distribute their natural sweetness evenly throughout the dish. Meanwhile, for the broccoli, I opt for a more precise approach by finely dicing the top portion of each floret with a knife.
It’s essential to avoid the stems altogether, as they can create texture issues and impede the smooth incorporation of the vegetable mixture into the batter.
Baby Vegetarian Pasta (With Veggies and Iron!)
To make this baby-friendly pasta dish truly satisfying, incorporate a medley of beans and other nutrient-dense vegetables. This not only adds flavor but also ensures the meal is both nutritious and delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – you can easily adjust the sauce to suit your taste preferences. Furthermore, it freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy future meals with minimal effort.
Homemade Veggie Nuggets (with 3 Veggies!)
To streamline my nugget-making routine, I’ve developed a habit of prepping the veggies and rice ahead of time. This simple step saves me valuable minutes in the kitchen, allowing me to focus on the actual nugget-forming magic.
Vegetarian Quesadillas with Beans and Cheese
While there’s no limit to the number of quesadillas you can create, go ahead and whip up as many or as few of these delicious treats as your taste buds dictate.
Mini Egg Muffins with Cheese and Veggies
Indulge in the nutritional powerhouse that is a soft egg muffin, packed with protein and essential vitamins. The versatility of this recipe lies in its ability to accommodate a variety of vegetables, allowing you to customize your muffins to suit your taste preferences. Simply choose from an array of options like carrots, butternut squash, broccoli, or spinach, and watch as the flavors meld together in perfect harmony.
Roasted Sweet Potato Tacos
Consider a unique approach for your little ones who aren’t yet prepared for a conventional taco experience. Instead of presenting a fully formed taco, offer the individual elements – filling, tortilla, and toppings – in a flexible format that allows them to create their own customized snack. Simply arrange these components on a plate and let them explore their creativity as they eat.
Homemade Cauliflower Tots
Satisfy the cravings of both kids and adults with a simple yet satisfying snack. Quinoa, cauliflower, and cheese come together to create bite-sized morsels that not only please the palate but also provide a nutritious boost. This easy recipe produces around 20 bites, making it perfect for serving 4-6 toddlers or 1-2 adults.
5-Ingredient Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Select the desired pasta shape and type to suit your family’s tastes, with popular options including elbow macaroni or mini conchiglie shells.
Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Indulge in the warmth of wholesome comfort food with this delightful soup, boasting an impressive trifecta of nutritional benefits: rich plant-based protein, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese. This delectable concoction is poised to win over even the pickiest of eaters, making it a perfect way to nourish your entire family’s taste buds while prioritizing their overall well-being.
Chickpea Avocado Sandwich Easy Recipe
Satisfy your cravings with this delectable chickpea avocado sandwich, a culinary masterpiece that requires minimal effort yet yields maximum flavor. With its simplicity, it’s the ideal meal prep solution for any day.
Vegan Italian Pasta Salad (Family Will Enjoy)
There’s something about pasta salad recipes that makes them incredibly appealing, whether you’re in the midst of a hectic evening or planning a casual summer gathering. The beauty of these dishes lies in their simplicity and ability to provide a satisfying meal that surpasses the typical salad experience. With just a few quick steps, you can create a deliciously filling dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Family-Friendly Dried Apple Slices
Indulge in the simplicity and nutritional benefits of homemade dried apple slices. With minimal effort required, these bite-sized morsels become a guilt-free snack option that’s both tasty and low in calories.
Kids Love Mixed Bean Chilli
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this incredible mixed vegetarian bean chilli, which can be prepared in just 30 minutes. This vegan chilli recipe is perfect for a satisfying family dinner that will leave everyone feeling full and content.
Creamy Tomato Soup For Lunch Or Dinner
Indulge in the rich flavors of this scrumptious creamy tomato soup, whipped up in a mere ten minutes! By combining tomato sauce and paste with a pinch of seasoning, you’ll be treated to the ultimate comfort food experience. Simply check out the recipe [here](#) for a taste sensation that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Best-Ever Crispy Vegan Tofu Nuggets (Baked)
Indulge in the crispiest, most scrumptious vegan tofu nuggets you’ve ever tasted! After scouring high and low for the ultimate snack spot, I’m thrilled to share my latest discovery. With a passion for plant-based bites that rivals my love for their crispy, golden exteriors, these mouthwatering morsels had to be nothing short of perfection.
Easy Healthy Peanut Butter & Jam Banana Sandwich
Indulge in the delightful combination of natural goodness and convenience with these vegan Peanut Butter & Jam Banana Bites. Not only are they a healthier snack option, but they’re also kid-friendly and can be prepared in mere minutes, making them a perfect treat for any time of day. Experience the simplicity and wholesomeness for yourself by following this recipe.
Vegan Oat Flour Pancakes with Bananas
In our household, these vegan oat flour pancakes have become a staple due to their trifecta of benefits: they’re not only healthy but also budget-friendly and incredibly easy to prepare. In fact, we find them to be the perfect go-to recipe. For a taste of what all the fuss is about, simply click here.
Vegan Ranch Pasta Salad For Picky Eaters
The quintessential blend of creamy, zesty, and tangy flavors comes alive when combining homemade vegan ranch with al dente pasta, fresh veggies, and a hint of nostalgia. This delectable pasta salad excels at room temperature or chilled, making it an ideal choice for potlucks or cozying up at home with loved ones. And the best part? This recipe is nut-free, gluten-free, oil-free, and sugar-free – a true winner for those seeking a guilt-free dining experience.
Burnt Garlic Fried Rice
Indo-Chinese cuisine boasts a rich diversity of flavors, and one dish that stands out to me is Burnt Garlic Fried Rice. The combination of caramelized garlic, fluffy rice, and an assortment of colorful vegetables creates a truly irresistible culinary experience. What’s more, this delightful dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Chipotle Vegan Burrito with Cilantro Lime Rice
Indulge in the ultimate vegan burrito experience, a flavor-packed masterpiece that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. This mouthwatering meal is packed with a medley of mouth-watering ingredients, including chipotle black beans, cilantro-lime rice, tangy pico de gallo, creamy avocado, and a kick of spicy sauce. The perfect blend of textures and tastes, this vegan burrito is an unbeatable choice for anyone looking to savor the meatless life.
Quinoa Taco Salad
This Quinoa Taco Salad has become my go-to option for a quick and effortless lunch that can easily be packed in a container for on-the-go convenience. Plus, its versatility makes it just as suitable for a satisfying dinner. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring no more than a few swift movements to assemble and enjoy.
Instant Pot Pumpkin Mac and Cheese (Cream Cheese Healthy Dinner)
Indulge in the comforting combination of creamy mac and cheese, succulent pumpkin, and warm fall spices with this effortless Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for any time of year, this pressure cooker delight is sure to become a family favorite.
Air Fryer French Fries – Instant Pot French Fries
Indulge in the crispiest, most mouthwatering homemade French fries with minimal effort. These delectable treats can be swiftly prepared using an air fryer or Instant Pot, requiring only three fundamental ingredients. Whether you’re a parent seeking a satisfying snack for kids and adults alike, or simply craving something delicious at your fingertips, this recipe is the perfect solution.
Rainbow Hummus Veggie Wrap (Tortilla Wrap)
Getting kids to eat veggies can be a daunting task for parents. However, with a little creativity and planning, it’s achievable. One effective approach is to make meal presentation appealing to their age group. This means using fun shapes and colors to make the dish more attractive. Additionally, it’s crucial not to reveal that vegetables are included in their meals, as this can lead to immediate rejection.
To make things easier, I’ve compiled a list of 43 kid-friendly vegetarian recipes that your little ones will surely love.
Instructions
If you’re looking to get kids involved in the kitchen, try out some kid-friendly vegetarian recipes from our post! Simply click on the link below each photo to access the full recipe and step-by-step instructions. Once you’ve tried one (or several!), don’t forget to share your creations by posting a photo under our Pinterest pin. All of these delicious options are brought to you by MomsHealth.co, where American cuisine meets healthy living.