Master List of Vegetable Recipes for Kids
Vegetable Recipes for Kids
I’m always recommending that the best way to get our kids to eat more vegetables is to make sure that they taste good to us. These vegetable recipes for kids hit that mark and are great places to start if you’re looking to introduce new veggies—or veggies that you’ve previously tried—in new ways.
Because while we all know that kids need their veggies for so many aspect of their health, they are often so reluctant to actually eat them. So thinking about how to make them easy to eat and yummy is one way to try to help the situation.
Remember that it can take kids upwards of 20 times of seeing a veggie to be brave enough to actually try it. Which absolutely does not mean you need to keep track, but is just to remind you that this is a process of learning. So keep modeling enjoyment by eating these foods yourself, offering it in small portions without pressure, and having the foods you want them to eat around regularly.
Kids Vegetables List
I should say that this is not a comprehensive list of recipes (that would be epic!) but it’s a perfect place to start if you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables into your kid’s diets.
I will note any potential issues with choking hazards for toddlers, cooking tips, and flavor profiles for each recipe to give you a head start with trying some of them out.
This list of vegetables include sides, main dishes, snacks, and breakfast ideas.
Asparagus Recipes
During the spring and throughout the year, asparagus is always a favorite vegetable to share with the family
OVEN-ROASTED ASPARAGUS
When I learned how to cook asparagus in the oven, it was like a lightbulb went off. This method is so easy because all you do is to toss the asparagus with a little oil, sprinkle, with salt, and let the heat from the oven soften up the stalks.
ASPARAGUS BABY FOOD
They even get a little sweet as they roast and are easy to blend into baby food.
Beets Recipes for Kids
Beets are a good source of fiber and antioxidants. They have an earthly flavor which some kids love…and others may not.
EASY BOILED BEETS
Beets are naturally pretty sweet, when cooked they have a soft texture that’s easy for kids to eat, and they taste ridiculously good with a little butter and salt. This boiled beets recipe takes about 30 minutes and is mostly hands off—and it’s a good one to make-ahead to reheat later!
BEET HUMMUS
Boost the nutrition—and the color!—in your next batch of homemade hummus by adding beets.
Bell Peppers Recipes for Kids
Older toddlers and kids may love raw bell pepper sticks since they tend to be sweet, especially the red, yellow, and orange varieties. They can be hard to chew for kids under 3, so keep that in mind.
Bell peppers, which are sweet and not spicy, come in a range of colors and are delicious raw and cooked. They’re also a good source of Vitamin C.
OVEN-ROASTED RED PEPPERS
With a simple sheet pan method and pantry spices, you can learn how to Roast Red Peppers in the oven to use in tacos, sandwiches, and just as a simple side. You can season them with just salt or add cumin and a dash of chili powder for a Mexican take.
EASY STUFFED PEPPERS SKILLET
With the classic flavors of easy Stuffed Peppers, but much less work, this skillet version cooks up in just 20 minutes for a healthy family dinner option. You can use a mix of colors of peppers for a bright and fun visual.
Broccoli Recipes for Kids
Broccoli is often seen as the holy grail of veggies when it comes to kids, and while I love to try serving it in all sorts of ways to see what the kids like, it’s okay if the kids are still learning.
BROCCOLI TOTS
With a handful of accessible, healthy ingredients, you can bake broccoli tots that are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. And…they kind of taste like broccoli tater tots! You can even make them ahead and store them in the freezer for later.
BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP
Broccoli, cheddar, and split peas team up in this healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe that’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber—and is a great family meal alongside crackers or muffins. It also freezes wonderfully!
ROASTED BROCCOLI
When my oldest kiddo was little, she went to a daycare that served roasted broccoli regularly and all the kids devoured it. (Really!) It gets slightly sweet when roasted, which is a plus. Try to cut the florets to the same size for even cooking.
BROCCOLI PESTO
A fun riff on classic pesto that’s a perfect pair for pasta!
BROCCOLI PUREE
Try this with babies as an easy way to introduce and serve broccoli.
Brussels Sprouts Recipes for Kids
This veggie can be bitter at times, so look for a recipe that has acid in it (like lemon juice) or that caramelizes them, like what happens during roasting—both of which can help balance the flavors.
SAUTEED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH LEMON AND HONEY
Try this quick Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Lemon and Honey for a simple side for dinner. It’s slightly sweet and pleasantly nutty, and not a bit bitter!
ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS
This method for making Brussels sprouts may be on that your kids love. In my house, I have one kiddo who loves them and one who doesn’t so keep trying if the first time isn’t a success!
Vegetable Recipes for Kids: Carrots
Carrots last forever in the fridge, are a good source of Vitamin A, and are super versatile. Here are some of our favorite carrot recipes.
EASY BAKED CARROT FRIES
These are easy to prepare (you basically just need to slice them). They cook in just about 20 minutes (with no stirring or tending required). And they are totally delicious dunked into ketchup.
QUICK AND EASY SAUTEED CARROTS
So easy and fast, this is one of our favorite veggie side dishes.
CARROT PANCAKES
Like carrot cake, only healthy and appropriate for breakfast!
CARROT HUMMUS
Add some veggies to a basic hummus for a nutrition boost.
CARROT ZUCCHINI MUFFINS
Double veggies for double flavor!
CARROT PUREE
Turn fresh carrots into a simple, nourishing baby food with this easy method…no special baby food makers required.
CARROT CAKE OATMEAL
Make the easiest Carrot Cake Oatmeal and serve up a dose of veggies for breakfast in a kid-friendly form everyone will love! This is such a great way to start the day with a nutritious breakfast packed with fruits and veggies.
CARROT SMOOTHIE
This easy Carrot Smoothie is bursting with freshness—and Vitamin C. It’s made with carrots, mango, and orange and is such a nice breakfast or snack component!
Kid-Friendly Cauliflower Recipes
Cauliflower, which is in the same family as broccoli, has nutrients including fiber and Vitamin C. Here are some favorite ways to prepare it.
CAULIFLOWER WITH PARMESAN
It’s simply steaming the cauliflower florets and then tossing with flavorful enhancements—butter or olive oil (if you need dairy-free or just prefer olive oil) and cheese. (We usually find that cheese helps almost any veggie go down easier.)
CAULIFLOWER TOTS
With just 6 simple ingredients, these Cauliflower Tots are a healthy homemade finger food the kids (and the parents) will enjoy. Bonus: They reheat from frozen beautifully!
CAULIFLOWER MAC AND CHEESE
With a simple cheese sauce that has cauliflower right in the mix to help thicken, this healthy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a fast weeknight lunch or dinner option for toddlers.
