Simple, Kid-Friendly Dinner Ideas That Incorporate Vegetables
by Leanne Robertson
April 27, 2022
It is not easy to get a child (or a grown man for that matter) to eat their vegetables. Let’s face it: they are not the tastiest foods in the fridge. However, we all recognize the nutritional value of vegetables and their necessity in a child’s diet. So instead of having that side of Brussels sprouts lay cold and untouched on the edge of the plate, it is often better to directly incorporate vegetables into the main dish. When utilized effectively, vegetables not only add nutrition to your meal but also enhance the taste! Try out these dishes to supplement your child’s diet with vegetables; whether they realize it or not, your child (or even your fiancé—trust me, these meals are the only way I can get him to eat something that isn’t meat or sugar) will come to find that veggies aren’t so bad after all!
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Macaroni & Cheese
A kid friendly classic—add some broccoli to help provide a daily serving of vegetables.
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Nachos
Include a variety of toppings such as peppers, onions, tomatoes; serve with a side of guacamole.
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Quesadillas
Add peppers, onions, or tomatoes to a quesadilla of your choice; serve with a side of avocados or guacamole.
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Pizza
Go ahead and add some vegetables on the top of your pizza! Some fan favorites include peppers, spinach or onions.
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DIY Salad
Provide bowls filled with lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, onions, peppers—whatever! Have the kids build their own salad!
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Tacos
Build your own taco with a variety of vegetables such as peppers, onions, tomatoes, avocados, or guacamole.
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Kabobs
A fun way to eat—include zucchini, peppers, onions, or mushrooms to really “stick” the landing!
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Panini
A versatile sandwich-type option; add peppers, spinach, zucchini, onions, and tomatoes.
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Chicken & Rice
Add vegetables such as carrots, peppers, and onions to bring some flavor and nutrients to this dish.