Family-friendly vegetarian recipes that are perfect for weeknight meals

Make weeknights easier with delicious & healthy vegetarian recipes for kids.

The idea of vegetarian meals for weeknight dinners is a great way to provide nutritious, delicious options that are easy to prepare. With so many people leading increasingly hectic lives, having quick and easy meals that don't require a lot of time or resources can help make life easier. Vegetarian recipes are an excellent choice for weeknight meals because they are packed with nutrition, are relatively low in cost, and can be prepared quickly.

Vegetarians don´t eat meat. The first definition of a vegetarian meal is a meatless meal. A meatless meal would not have meat or meat products, but it can have eggs, milk or fish. Then you can go full vegan and reject all food from animal origin, including milk, eggs, fish and even honey. Between vegetarian and vegan, there are lactovegetarians, who would have dairy, or pescatarians, who would eat fish.

When creating a vegetarian meal for weeknights, it's important to look for recipes that require minimal preparation time and use simple ingredients. Many vegetarian-friendly dishes can be made with only a few items from the pantry or refrigerator. For example, a hearty vegetable lasagna can be made with frozen vegetables, canned tomatoes, and store-bought pasta sauce. A flavorful bean burrito bowl can be created with canned beans and pre-shredded cheese for use as toppings.

It is also important to make sure that the dish is balanced and full of flavor. A good vegetarian meal should contain a variety of vegetables, legumes, grains, and healthy fats to ensure that it's packed with nutritional value. Vegetarian dishes can be made even more delicious by adding flavorful ingredients like herbs, spices, nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Finally, it's important to mix up the types of vegetarian dishes you make for weeknight dinner. If a family is accustomed to eating pasta or bean-based dishes most nights, try to give them something new each week. Try experimenting with different grains like quinoa or bulgur wheat and adding unique vegetables like kale, Brussels sprouts, or artichokes. You can also try new flavors such as Indian or Asian-inspired dishes.

There are so many delicious, easy vegetarian recipes that can be used for weeknight meals. From a hearty vegetable lasagna to a flavorful bean burrito bowl, there are plenty of ways to make nutritious and satisfying vegetarian dinners in a hurry.

With some creative thinking and the right ingredients, weeknight dinners can be a breeze. So why not give vegetarian meals a try? You may be surprised by just how delicious and easy they can be.

Why family-friendly vegetarian recipes are a great option for busy nights

There are many reasons why vegetarian recipes can be a great way to provide nutritious, delicious meals for busy weeknights that are family-friendly besides being quick and easy to prepare.

1. Quick and easy to prepare - vegetarian meals require less time in the kitchen, making them ideal for busy nights.
2. Low cost - vegetarian recipes are often cheaper than their meat-based counterparts, so they’re an affordable option for weeknight dinners.
3. Nutritious - Vegetarian dishes can provide lots of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.
4. Versatile - Vegetarian meals can be made with a variety of ingredients and flavors, which makes them great for experimenting with different tastes and textures.
5. Heart healthy – Plant-based proteins tend to be lower in saturated fat than animal proteins, which is great news for your heart health!
6. Environmentally friendly – Eating fewer animal products has been shown to have a positive impact on the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions created by industrial farming operations that raise animals for food production purposes. Plant based meals are better for the environment.
7. Ethically conscious – Many people prefer eating vegetarian as it eliminates any moral or ethical concerns about consuming animals or animal products.
8. Variety of options – There is no shortage of delicious vegetarian meal ideas available online giving you plenty of recipe inspiration when it comes to vegetarian cooking.

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder why family-friendly vegetarian recipes are a great option for busy nights. With some creative thinking and the right ingredients, you can whip up an easy and delicious vegetarian meal in no time.

How to create a balanced meal that's still full of flavor

When making vegetarian recipes, it’s important to create balanced meals that are still full of flavor. Start by including proteins like beans, lentils, eggs, and nuts to your dishes. Add in complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, quinoa, or brown rice for added fiber and energy. Include healthy fats from sources such as avocados, olive oil, and nuts. Finally, don’t forget to add your favorite vegetables for a boost of vitamins and minerals.

By taking these simple steps, you can create balanced vegetarian dishes that are full of flavor and nutrition. Not only will these meals be satisfying and delicious, they’ll also provide essential nutrients to your body for a healthy lifestyle.

As you can see, creating family-friendly vegetarian recipes doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. With a few simple tips and easy-to-follow recipes, you can create vegetarian meals that everyone will enjoy. So get creative in the kitchen and start making delicious and nutritious vegetarian dishes.

What simple foods can vegetarians eat?

Vegetarians can enjoy a variety of foods, including legumes such as lentils and beans; grains like quinoa, rice and oats; nuts and seeds; vegetables such as mushrooms, kale, cauliflower, spinach and carrots; fruits including apples, oranges and bananas; eggs for those who eat them; dairy products like cheese or yogurt, also for those who eat them; tofu; tempeh; seitan; nutritional yeast.

Vegetarians can also create delicious meals from these simple ingredients by combining them in imaginative ways. For example: make a veggie stir-fry with rice or noodles as the base topped with onions, peppers and other nutritious veggies of your choice. Add some herbs for flavor and combine it all for an easy weeknight dinner that's both healthy and delicious.

Healthy breakfast

Any vegetarian household should start the day with a healthy breakfast. Try some oatmeal with almond milk and fresh fruit for a nutrient-packed morning meal. Or make some pancakes using oats, banana, eggs and dairy-free milk for an indulgent yet healthy treat. For something savory, try vegetarian frittatas made with veggies like mushrooms, spinach and tomatoes.

Overnight oats with fruits and nuts – Oats are a great source of fiber and protein, and when topped with fresh fruit and nuts they make a delicious, nutritious breakfast. Non dairy milk can be used to prepare this type of breakfast. The kids love swwet things and asking them to help prepare breakfast the evening before is a good way to get the kids involved.

Mini veggie frittatas

Make mini versions of classic frittatas packed with veggies such as bell peppers, tomatoes, spinach or mushrooms.

Veggie-stuffed crepes – Get creative by stuffing your favorite vegetables into crepes to create a delicious breakfast that your kids will love.

Healthy lunches for children

Making healthy vegetarian lunches for children doesn't have to be stressful or time-consuming. By getting creative and exploring different healthy ingredients, you can make delicious, nutritious meals that your kids will love.

Healthy eating habits are important for children's overall well-being, so it's important to ensure they're getting the nutrition they need. With this guide, you can make healthy lunches that are both delicious and nutritious.

What do vegetarian kids eat for lunch?

For vegetarian kids, lunch can be a delicious and varied meal that includes vegetarian proteins like tofu, tempeh and beans; grains such as rice or quinoa; vegetables of any kind like bell peppers, carrots or mushrooms; fruits like apples or oranges; nuts and seeds for added crunchiness; and sauces such as salsa or hummus.

With these simple ingredients, you can make a variety of healthy and tasty lunches that your child will enjoy. The key is to mix up the recipes so your kid doesn't get bored with their meal.

You can also add spices for additional flavor without having to worry about unhealthy additives. When it comes to lunchtime meals, there are plenty of options for even picky vegetarian eaters.

Peanut butter and jelly sandwich

One popular healthy lunch option for children is the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It's easy to prepare and a favorite among kids. To make it healthy, use whole wheat bread, natural nut or seed butter (like almond or sunflower), and all-fruit spread as an alternative to regular jelly.

You can also change up the flavors by adding thinly-sliced apples or bananas. Adding healthy toppings like chia seeds, flaxseeds, and a sprinkle of cinnamon will give the sandwich more nutritional value while still being delicious.

Veggie wrap

Veggie wraps are another healthy lunch option for kids that are packed with nutrition and flavor. Start with a whole-wheat wrap or tortilla, and fill it with your favorite healthy veggies like spinach, tomatoes, carrots, sweet peppers, and cucumbers.

Add some hummus for an extra protein boost. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices for added flavor. Fresh herbs usually have a milder flavor than their dried counterparts; children usually prefer fresh basil to dried basil, although some kids are bold and fall in love with a smoked paprika hummus.

Wraps are great for picnics or road trips as well because they're easy to travel with and mess-free.

Pasta salad

Pasta salad is a nutritious lunch option that's kid-friendly and delicious! Start by boiling whole wheat pasta, then add in healthy vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, and broccoli. For protein, you can add chickpeas, lentils, or nuts.

Mix it all up with a healthy homemade dressing of olive oil and vinegar, then sprinkle some herbs and seasonings to taste. This healthy lunch is sure to be a hit.

Healthy dinner

A vegetarian household can enjoy a healthy dinner on any weeknight with the right combination of ingredients. This shouldn´t be stressful if breakfast and lunch went right.

If you have a collection with a few favorite vegetarian recipes, you can create delicious and nutritious meals that are right for the family, including kids of all ages. From vegetarian lasagna to tofu stir-frys, there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating easy and flavorful vegetarian dishes perfect for weeknight meals. With a few simple ingredients like beans, grains, nuts and vegetables, you can whip up tasty vegetarian dishes in no time at all.

Taco night

Tacos are a great way to enjoy a delicious and healthy vegetarian meal. From classic tacos with refried beans, to more creative fillings like roasted cauliflower or grilled portobello mushrooms - there's something for everyone when it comes to vegetarian tacos! Not only are they easy to make, but they're also packed with flavor and nutrition.

Vegetarian taco night can be made even easier by preparing some of the ingredients in advance. Roast vegetables such as sweet potatoes, bell peppers or mushrooms ahead of time so that you can quickly assemble your tacos later on. You could also try grilling tofu or tempeh for extra protein and texture. 

Toppings like avocado slices, diced tomatoes, lettuce leaves and vegan cheese shreds add color as well as flavor to your tacos. For extra crunchy texture you could mix up a batch of spicy tortilla chips or bake some nacho-style jalapenos filled with vegan cream cheese. You can have an amazing taco night without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Tips to make vegetarian meals healthy, delicious and easy to prepare

Making vegetarian recipes healthy, delicious and easy to prepare with limited time and resources can be achieved by taking a few simple steps.

First, look for recipes that use fresh, seasonal ingredients whenever possible. Fresh produce is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that provide essential nutrients to the body. Whole-grain pasta or quinoa are also great options for adding extra fiber and protein to your vegetarian dishes.

Second, don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen. Add a variety of herbs and spices to add flavor to your dishes, or try incorporating different types of vegetables such as kale or Brussels sprouts into familiar meals like lasagna or chili.

Third, look for recipes that are easy to follow and don’t require a lot of time or effort. Many vegetarian dishes can be made in a single pot or skillet, which helps save time on preparation and cleanup.

Finally, take advantage of pre-made ingredients like canned beans and diced vegetables when you’re short on time. They’re an easy and convenient way to add proteins, fiber, and flavor to your vegetarian dishes.

Vegetarian dishes that everyone will enjoy

Now that you know how to put together a healthy vegetarian meal that is delicious and easy to prepare with limited time and resources, let’s look at some delicious vegetarian dishes that everyone will enjoy.

Mediterranean veggie bowl

This easy-to-make bowl combines all the flavors of the Mediterranean into one, including quinoa, olives, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

Tomato basil soup

A classic comfort food made with simple ingredients, this soup is delicious garnished with fresh basil and served with crusty bread or a green salad.

Baked potato and baked sweet potato

Both can be nutritious with the right toppings, such as baked beans or cottage cheese. Many vegetarian recipes for kids have a baked potato or sweet potato base.

Just vegetable lasagna

A classic lasagna becomes a vegetarian recipe when the filling is vegetables. It can be more nutritious if lentil lasagna sheets are used.

Roasted vegetable lasagna

This lasagna-style dish uses sliced roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant to create layers of flavor and texture.

Black bean enchiladas

A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this dish is filled with black beans, corn, and cheese and topped off with a delicious enchilada sauce.

Lentil chili

A hearty vegetarian chili made with lentils, tomatoes, peppers and onions for a flavorful dinner option. It´s absolutely delicious.

Veggie quesadillas

An easy meal that can be made in just minutes, these quesadillas are filled with peppers, onions and cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. I you are looking for an easy recipe, try one for quesadillas.

Eggplant Parmesan

A vegetarian spin on the traditional Italian dish, this eggplant parmesan uses cooked rice or quinoa, or a mix of both, in place of meat for a light yet flavorful dinner. Top with grated Parmesan or grated Cheddar cheese.

Portobello burgers

Perfect for a summer barbecue, these portobello burgers are juicy and flavorful and sure to be a hit with everyone. Just grill a large Portobello mushroom and serve in a burger roll with all the toppings.

Vegetarian recipes for kids families that the whole family will love

Veggie burgers kids and adults will love

Veggie burgers can be made with beans, quinoa and any type of vegetable. These burgers can be served with salsa and fries or in buns with toppings, like other burgers.

Pizza bagel

These veggie-loaded bagel pizza are the perfect lunch or dinner. Children will enjoy the delicious combination of melted cheese, pizza sauce and fresh vegetables for a hearty meal that's sure to satisfy. Add other chopped veggies for even a healthier meal.

Bean recipes for kids

Cauliflower tikka Masala with Chickpeas

This dish is a verry mild curry, it is flavorful and satisfying, and it is sure to please everyone at the table, even those picky eaters. A curry is a popular Indian dish.

Baked sweet Potato and black bean warm salad

Baked sweet potato topped with a warm black bean salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal.

Broccoli and lentils

A simple lentil soup you can cook for the whole family in one go. The only thing you need to do is remove the portion for the baby before seasoning.

Tofu and tempeh recipes

Tofu knots

Soak bean curd knots for 2 hours and then give them the macaroni cheese treatment by baking them in a miso enriched béchamel sauce topped with breadcrumbs. East meets west.

Vegetarian hot dogs

Tofu sausages make wonderful vegetarian hot dogs. Just grill them, or cook them in a pan, and serve them with the usual bread roll and sauces.

Baked tempeh

This easy baked tempeh is the perfect vegetarian recipe to get your kids excited about plant-based foods.

Snacks, dips and sides that kids will love

Spinach pesto

This recipe for spinach pesto is a delicious and healthy way to get your daily dose of vegetables. The pesto is made with fresh spinach, basil, Parmesan cheese, and walnuts, and it can be served on pasta or bread.

Broccoli pesto

Looking for a delicious and healthy pasta sauce that can double as a dip? Try broccoli pesto. This recipe is perfect for any type of pasta or to serve with pita chips. And it's easy to make.

Vanilla dip

A sweet cream cheese dip for fruit that everyone will enjoy, and it is healthy as the recipe has less sugar. Serve this vanilla dip with fresh fruit cut into finger food size.

Easy egg recipes

Easy egg salad pita pockets

An easy light meal, ideal for an easy lunch, a pick-me-up, or supper. Kids can make this themselves, from the egg salad to opening the pita bread.

Carrot muffins

These are tasty muffins that taste great all on their own. For an extra treat, top the muffins with cream cheese icing.

Lactovegetarian recipes for kids

Macaroni cheese

All of the veggie variations of macaroni cheese can be considered the ultimate kid friendly vegetarian recipes.

Kids always love macaroni cheese, frequently macaroni cheese is their favorite pasta recipe, and this is also the ultimate comfort food for feeding kids and many adults too.

Grilled cheese sandwich

Grilled cheese is a childhood favorite for many kids. To make healthy grilled cheese, use whole wheat bread and some sharp Cheddar or cheese (Cheddar cheese melts well)

You can also add healthy toppings like tomatoes, spinach, and avocado for extra nutrition. For an even healthier twist, use low-fat cheese and skip the butter, or margarine, and opt for vegetable oil instead. This healthy version is sure to be a hit with the kids.

Baked potato with cottage cheese

The fluffy potato is baked until golden brown and topped with creamy cottage cheese. Add some chopped chives for mor flavor.

Pescatarian meals for kids

Island baked fish

White fish baked in a tomato and sweet pepper sauce with garlic and herbs. Choose boneless fillets when cooking for kids.

Fish stick burgers

Most kids love fish sticks and this is a way to change up their way of eating them while also helping them to eat a few more of those dreaded veggies. Even picky eaters fall for this.

Fishy rice salad

Kids who do not enjoy fish because of the bones may take to this fishy salad. The fish is flaked and clean. The mixture of sweet and savory appeals to their budding tastes. This salad is gluten free.

Vegetarian recipes for kids

Carrot and potato purée

A simple and highly digestible purée suitable for babies from 6 month onwards. You can prepare a soup for the whole family, setting the portion for the baby aside before seasoning, or cook a batch and freeze individual portions.

Creamy carrot and potato soup

A simple and tastier soup for a family with kids older than 12 months. Omit cream cheese or cream for strict vegetarians or vegans. As the carrot and potato purée, you can prepare a soup for the entire family or cook a batch and freeze individual portions.

Just for kids pizza quesadillas with Peppers & Onions

Kids of all shape and sizes enjoy a good pizza but when they can make it themselves it's even better. These quesadillas are perfect for them to make. They can add any of their favorite pizza toppings.

Frequent questions.

What can I feed my picky vegetarian child?

Having a picky vegetarian child can be a challenge when it comes to mealtime. To make sure your kid is getting the nutrition they need while still being able to enjoy delicious and healthy meals, several family-friendly vegetarian recipes are ideal for weeknight meals.

Delicious and nutritious vegan recipes for kid's vegan recipes for every day

Start with dishes such as mac and cheese, burritos, pizza or burgers that use vegetarian ingredients such as tofu, beans and lentils. You can also add various vegetables like carrots, sweet peppers, eggplant or mushrooms to boost flavor and nutrition.

When creating a balanced and healthy meal plan for your child, focus on including all food groups such as proteins (tofu, tempeh), grains (rice), vegetables (any kind) and fruits (apples). For added variety add nuts or seeds for a crunchy texture.

Don't forget about condiments either; adding sauces like salsa or hummus can boost the flavor of any dish! With these simple tips, you can create tasty vegetarian dishes that will get even the pickiest eaters excited about dinner.

How can a picky vegetarian eat healthily?

The best way for a picky vegetarian to eat healthily is to find vegetarian recipes that use simple ingredients and have plenty of flavor. Many delicious plant-based dishes can be prepared quickly with limited resources, such as hummus, lentil chili, roasted vegetables and eggplant parmesan. These recipes can be tailored to the individual's tastes by adding different spices or sauces.

Healthy dinner ideas for kids

When prepping meals ahead of time, focus on healthy proteins like beans and tofu along with vegetables, nuts and whole grains. To make sure all nutritional needs are being met each day try incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into the menu for added vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber.

Finally, it's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Should a child go fully vegan?

Whether or not children should go fully vegan is a personal choice that depends on a variety of factors, including individual nutritional needs, beliefs, and family preferences. A well-planned vegan diet can provide adequate nutrients for children, but it requires careful planning to ensure they receive all the essential nutrients they need for growth and development.

Well-planned vegan diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life cycle, including childhood. However, we have to emphasize the importance of proper planning and supplementation to avoid potential nutritional deficiencies.

If you're considering a vegan diet for your child, it's essential to pay attention to key nutrients such as:

1. Protein
2. Vitamin B12
3. Iron
4. Calcium
5. Omega-3 fatty acids
6. Vitamin D
7. Iodine
8. Zinc

Consulting with a registered dietitian or paediatrician can help ensure your child's nutritional needs are met while following a vegan diet. They can guide you on meal planning, appropriate supplementation, and monitoring your child's growth and development.

What is the most popular vegetarian food?

The most popular vegetarian food depends on the region, culture, and personal tastes of those who enjoy it. However, some of the most popular vegetarian dishes include veggie burgers, plant-based tacos or burritos, vegetable stir-fries with tofu or tempeh, lentil soups and stews, pasta dishes topped with marinara sauce or pesto, curried vegetables over brown rice or quinoa bowls.

Many people also enjoy salads with a variety of toppings like nuts and seeds for added protein. The possibilities are endless! With a little creativity and the right ingredients on hand, you can enjoy delicious vegetarian dishes that everyone in your family will love.

What are some meals without meat?

Many meals do not include meat and are good natural choices for a vegetarian dinner. Some examples of vegetarian dishes include veggie stir-fry, fried rice with vegetables, pasta primavera, baked macaroni, vegetable curry, quinoa salad, stuffed peppers, roasted vegetables with hummus and flatbreads. These meals can be prepared easily using a variety of vegetables and legumes and flavored with herbs, spices or sauces like peanut sauce.

Vegetarian recipes are also versatile as you can add different proteins such as beans, nuts or tempeh to make them more nutritious and filling. You can also replace meat proteins with plant-based alternatives such as Beyond Meat products or tofu. With careful planning and a few ingredients, you can enjoy delicious vegetarian meals without the need for complicated recipes.

What should I make for dinner that is kid friendly?

Making a family-friendly vegetarian dish for dinner can be a quick and easy option. Some great tasty meals that kids will love include pasta primavera with roasted vegetables, butternut squash mac and cheese, veggie tacos in crispy taco shells, quinoa stuffed peppers with cheese, roasted vegetable pizza, vegetable noodle stir-fry, spring rolls with peanut sauce or veggie burgers.

To make these meals more nutritious you can also try adding beans, nuts or seeds to the dish. With these simple vegetarian recipes, you'll have an interesting mix of flavors that everyone in the family will enjoy.

What to make for dinner when kids have friends over?

When kids have friends over for dinner, one great option is to make a vegetarian meal and you should find some kid-friendly vegetarian recipes to be sure everyone will enjoy the meal. This can be a creative and delicious way to provide everyone with something they'll enjoy.

Some family-friendly vegetarian recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners include vegetable stir-fries, lentil burgers, veggie pasta dishes and roasted veggie tacos. When making these meals, it's important to include a balance of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats. For example, adding chickpeas or boiled eggs to roast vegetables adds some protein while nut butter or avocado adds healthy fat.

Additionally, it's important to focus on simple ingredients when cooking during the week so you don't spend too much time in the kitchen; some easy ingredients you can use are canned beans, frozen vegetables and pre-made sauces like hummus or pesto sauce.

With these tips in mind, you can create delicious vegetarian meals that both kids and their friends will love.

What is a good supper for children?

For children, a great vegetarian supper could include dishes like a veggie-based pasta bake with some cheese melted on top; quinoa patties served with yogurt dipping sauce; roasted vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs; vegetable tacos or fajitas with refried beans, guacamole and salsa; grilled cheese sandwich made with vegan cheese slices served with steamed vegetables.

All of these meals can be easily prepared using simple ingredients that most children enjoy eating. It's also important to make sure the meal is balanced by including both protein sources (legumes, tofu or tempeh) as well as complex carbohydrates for energy. Adding some fresh fruit for dessert is an easy way to round out the meal.