Delicious Kid-Friendly Vegetable Sides That Even Picky Eaters Will Enjoy
1. Roasted Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a great vegetable choice. To entice picky eaters, cut sweet potatoes into fry shapes, toss them in olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and cinnamon. Roasting them at 425°F for 25-30 minutes results in crispy edges and a soft interior. Serve with a side of honey or yogurt dip for added flavor.
2. Cheesy Broccoli Bites
Transform broccoli into an exciting snack by turning them into cheesy bites. Steam small broccoli florets until tender, then mix them with shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and a beaten egg. Form the mixture into small patties and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown. The melted cheese makes broccoli more appealing, and their bite-sized nature is perfect for little hands.
3. Zucchini Fritters
Introduce zucchini in a fun way by making fritters. Grate zucchini and mix it with flour, egg, cheese, and a favorite spice like garlic powder. Form patties and pan-fry until golden on both sides. Serve with a yogurt-based dip or ketchup for a kid-friendly flavor boost. These fritters can be served as a side dish or even as a snack.
4. Cauliflower Tots
Cauliflower can be transformed into a delicious alternative to potato tots. Steam cauliflower florets until soft, then mash and combine with cheese, breadcrumbs, and an egg. Shape into tots and bake until crispy. The slight crunch will win over picky eaters, and they can be dipped in their favorite sauces.
5. Carrot and Celery Stick Dippers
For a quick and easy snack that can double as a side dish, cut carrots and celery into sticks and serve them with peanut butter or hummus. Kids are often more inclined to eat vegetables when they’re paired with fun dips. Consider adding a sprinkle of raisins or grapes for a pop of sweetness that complements the veggies.
6. Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach often gets a bad rap with kids, but when combined with creamy cheese and artichokes, it becomes a hit. Blend cooked spinach with artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly and serve with pita chips or breadsticks for dipping. Not only does this dish contain nutritious spinach, but it also allows kids to enjoy vegetables in a creamy form.
7. Veggie Pizza
Turn traditional pizza night into a vegetable fest by making a veggie pizza. Use whole wheat tortillas or a store-bought pizza dough, spread marinara sauce, and let the kids choose their favorite veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Top with cheese and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The crispy crust and familiar pizza flavors will make it a hit with picky eaters.
8. Cucumber and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
For a refreshing side or snack, take slices of cucumber and spread a thin layer of cream cheese. Roll them up and secure with a toothpick. This simple preparation highlights a crunchy vegetable, and kids will enjoy the playful presentation and creamy filling. You can also add slices of deli meat or sprinkle some herbs for extra flavor.
9. Garlic Green Beans
Green beans can be a winning vegetable if prepared correctly. Sauté fresh green beans in olive oil with minced garlic until tender-crisp. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish, making it more enticing. Serve them warm as a crunchy side dish. Consider topping with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
10. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Corn on the cob is a sweet and satisfying side dish. Boil or grill fresh corn until tender, then slather it with herb-infused butter. For a fun twist, let kids add their own toppings such as cheese, chili powder, or lime juice. Eating corn on the cob is interactive, which can make the eating experience exciting.
11. Apple and Beet Slaw
For a colorful side, combine shredded beetroot with thinly sliced apples and carrots. Toss in a light dressing of apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey. The sweetness of apples balances the earthiness of beets and makes this slaw visually appealing and delicious.
12. Mini Vegetable Quiches
Vegetable quiches offer a nutritious way to incorporate various veggies. Use a muffin tin to bake mini quiches filled with beaten eggs, diced spinach, bell peppers, and cheese. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until set. Kids love handling these bite-sized portions and experimenting with different fillings.
13. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Another enticing option is to hollow out mini bell peppers and stuff them with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and cheese. Bake them until the cheese is melted
