There’s a special place in our hearts for parents of picky eaters. Mealtimes prove extra challenging, but no surprise to anyone, Trader Joe’s is here to save the day. We’ve rounded up tasty snacks and meal ideas that are so delicious that even your most discerning eaters will chow down. Keep reading to see our favorite things at Trader Joe’s for picky eaters.
Whether your little is anti-topping or even anti-cheese, Trader Joe’s pizza dough will come in super handy. Choose from regular or garlic dough, then have a pizza night where everyone can make their pie the way they want. At $1.49 each, this makes family dinner not only easy but cheap, too.
It’s hard to turn down these sweet and crunchy banana chips. Made with minimal ingredients, even a picky eater will think these are a treat, rather than a healthy snack.
Ok here us out: not only do carrots become super sweet when roasted (which makes them more kid-friendly), but we’re pretty sure your picky eater will love that these “coins” also come in fun colors!
When it seems like all you’re making is PB & J, give yourself a break with these TJ’s bars. Each one packs 8 grams of whole grain, is gluten free and way less messy than your regular sandwich. They’re also great for on the go!
Bamba Peanut Snack
Trader Joe's version of the popular Israeli snack food, Bamba is a feast for the senses. Made with corn grits, peanut paste, palm oil and salt, the snack is light and airy and oh so delicious. Think: cheese puff but with peanut butter!
Can you believe it's only $.99 for a bag? Time to stock up on some Bamba!
Organic Popcorn with Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Karly Wood
What kid doesn't enjoy a handful of popcorn? While not your standard movie theater version, this organic popped corn with accompanying organic extra virgin olive oil is a fancy snack that's perfect for adults or kids. Pack in a lunch or take on the go––there's nowhere this popcorn can't go.
A large bag is only $1.99 in the snack section at Trader Joe's.
Original Savory Thin Crackers
Karly Wood
Enjoyed a la mode, with cheese or in a dip, there's nothing these original Savory Thin Crackers can't go. The gluten-free snack is a great size for kids' lunches and perfect for portion control.
A pack of these tasty crackers is only $1.69 in the cracker and snack aisle.
Trader Joe's Contemplates Inner Peas
These baked pea snacks couldn't get much simpler! Made from actual peas and shaped like a pea pod with a touch of salt, your picky eater most likely won't even realize they're getting their dose of green veggies in this tasty snack.
A bag of these is only $1.49!
Organic Lowfat Organic Squishers
Karly Wood
Sneak in that healthy dairy to your picky eater's palette with cherry or strawberry yogurt squishes. The low-fat snack packs calcium in an ideal on-the-go squeeze package that kids find equally fun as they are delicious. You can even freeze them for a cold treat!
An 8-pack of squishes is only $3.19 in the refrigerated dairy section at TJ's.
Organic Fruit Wraps
Oh, hello $.49 snack foods! These Trader Joe's organic fruit wraps (or fruit leathers, as they are also known) come in four fruity flavors and are finger-licking good. Plus, they're ideal for packed lunches and snacks because they don't get smashed!
Stock up on these $.49 wraps near the cash register or snack aisle.
Hummus & Pita Chip Snack Pack
This package of two, four-ounce trays is filled with TJ's popular Mediterranean hummus and their own pita chips on the other. Easy to slip into a lunchbox or grab for an on-the-go snack on the way to after-school activities.
Gluten Free Mac & Cheese
Move over gluten-free Mac & Cheese, TJ's has just released a brand new Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese, and it's SO MUCH BETTER. Made from a blend of Havarti, Swiss, Cheddar and Gouda, this frozen dinner heats up like it was made fresh. It's creamy, flavorful and way better than other boxed versions.
Pack your freezer with several boxes of these for just $3.49.
Turkey Corn Dogs
One of our favorite things from Trader Joe's is their Turkey Corn Dog. Made from an all-turkey dog with no added nitrates, and then dipped in a savory batter, good luck stopping your littles from eating them with gusto.
A pack of 4 is only $2.99 in the freezer section.
Mandarin Orange Chicken
It's no secret that Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a real crowd pleaser––it wins for most popular product year after year for the retailer. The sweet and savory frozen dinner is a fan favorite for both adults and kids, even picky ones. Plump chicken is covered in crispy breading and then coated in a delicious sauce.
Pick up this easy dinner for $4.99 in the freezer section.
Ramen Soups
The subtle yet unique flavors in two of Trader Joe's newest products, make these Miso soups perfect for picky eaters. Noodles and savory spices plus a packet of sesame oil make this stand out from other ramen cups and make all the difference.
Choose from either Chicken or Miso Ramen cups for just $1.29 a piece.
Bean & Rice Burritos
Picky meat eaters will chow down on these bean and rice burritos. Made with just the basics, no artificial flavors or preservatives, AND 99% fat free, everyone wins when these burritos are for dinner.
If you think adding salmon to your weeknight dinner rotation will be a bust (kids won’t eat it, don’t know how to cook it, too fancy for weekdays), think again. Not only is it a great source of Omega-3s, but it’s a fish a lot of kids like or are willing to try; you can make it with all sorts of seasonings and sauces, and the best part is that it usually takes no longer than 30 minutes from start to finish. To help you decide which salmon meal ideas you want to try with your family, we found—and tested a few—of the best recipes for busy nights. Try one or all of them, and be prepared to want to make a version of this popular seafood once a week.
This salmon meal idea from Once Upon a Chef is perfect for weeknights because it only uses olive oil, salt, and pepper and is finished in 15 minutes. Pair it with a sauce, your family’s favorite veggies, and a side, and dinner is done.
It wouldn’t be a round-up of amazing salmon recipes if we didn’t include one with a lemon-dill sauce! This recipe from Vikalinka has all the flavors of the popular combo but is a bit healthier since she cuts down on the amount of butter used.
This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for easy weeknight dinner ideas. Be sure to use parchment paper or tin foil when making this easy oven-baked salmon from Kristine’s Kitchen to eliminate a step when cleaning up.
Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Salmon
Once Upon a Chef
Don’t be turned away by the fancy crust on this salmon from Once Upon a Chef. It takes a few minutes to prep and is a great way to get picky eaters to try new things, like fish! You can omit the nuts if necessary; the whole meal is ready in 20 minutes.
Honey Garlic Salmon
Sally’s Baking Addiction
Two of our favorite flavors come together in one of our favorite salmon meal ideas from Sally’s Baking Addiction. It only uses six ingredients, the marinade becomes a glaze, and you bake it on a sheet pan, so it’s the perfect family dinner—in our opinion, anyway.
Tuscan Salmon
Carlsbad Cravings
Heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic combine to make a wow-worthy sauce with this salmon recipe from Carlsbad Cravings. Made in one skillet, you can leave the sauce on the side for picky eaters.
Getting the butter just brown enough is the most challenging part of this fantastic salmon recipe from How Sweet Eats. You have to watch it closely, and when it’s ready for the fish, it takes almost no time after that. Plus, the flavor is so good that your family will want this dish regularly.
Salmon Tacos
Chelsea’s Messy Apron
You know and love your regular fish tacos, so mix it up with these fantastic salmon tacos from Chelsea’s Messy Apron. The prep work and marinating time might throw you off if it’s a busy weeknight, so make things in advance (like the salsa) or save this dish for a weekend. It’s worth it.
Coconut Curry Salmon
Pinch of Yum
You might think “hot” when you think of curry, but this salmon meal idea from Pinch of Yum has a sauce that is sweet more than spicy. Serve it over a bed of rice for a perfect dinner bowl!
Raise your hand if you love your air fryer. The must-have appliance of busy families everywhere is perfect for salmon, too. This recipe from Feel Good Foodie is complete in 10 minutes, which leaves you time to do one of the other hundreds of things on your list. Or to do nothing at all!
Baked Salmon in Foil
Erin Clarke at Well Plated
This collection of our favorite salmon meal ideas wouldn’t be complete without at least one made in foil! A classic cooking method for fish, you can easily throw in vegetables for a complete foil-packet dinner. Plus, there are many different ways to season it: butter and lemon, dill, pesto, teriyaki, and more. Get the recipe from Erin Clarke at Well Plated.
Another classic way to cook salmon is to poach it. This might bring back memories of Sunday brunches, and it’s popular for a reason. This recipe from Downshiftology calls for a little wine mixed with the water, but you can skip it if you like.
As parents, all too often, one day blurs right into the next. There are the endless to-dos, the steadfast routines, the mindless scrolling—and somehow, without noticing, joy just falls by the wayside. But we refuse to let that happen.
Instead, we’re doubling down on the bright spots in your day: the silly smiles, ridiculous poses, and awestruck expressions of your favorite littles, which make it all worthwhile. Whether you’re revisiting those super-early days in calendar view, adding fun filters and stickers to your favorite memories, or kicking back and letting auto recaps and smart curation do the organizing for you, our private photo-sharing app allows you to re-live the magic. Helping parents capture and safely share those “blink-and-you’ll-miss-them” moments with friends and family near and far is the best job in the world, and it just so happens to be ours.
That’s why we’ve changed the vibe around here to better match the joy we deliver. Whether you’re uploading memories on the Tinybeans app or checking out the latest advice in our newsletters, you’ll experience a beautiful new Tinybeans (with more exciting changes to come!). While our look is a little more playful, we’re more dedicated than ever to the things we believe in:
More love, not likes
In our digital world, authentic connections matter more than ever. Our families should not be social currency; their experiences are not performances. Our kids are the reason we get out of bed (so, so early) in the morning, and the special memories we create together should be shared with the people who really know and love them.
Families being unapologetically themselves
The truth is, every family is just a little bit weird. Lean into it, we say! It’s the quirky traditions, random nicknames, and inside jokes that make your crew who they are. Life is way less fun when you’re trying to fit the mold.
Privacy as a top priority
It’s almost instinctual to post, post, post for all the world to see. We’re rewarded with attention and dopamine bursts for our efforts. But who ends up accessing and owning our images and videos? That murkiness keeps us up at night, and it’s why we believe every parent should be able to protect their family’s privacy from the start.
Giving you time back and extra reasons to smile
The less time you spend hunting down dinner recipes, parenting hacks, and holiday gifts, the more you can actually be present in the moment. That’s why we’re going to do the legwork for you, delivering expert advice on how to fast-forward through tantrums, easy meal ideas for when you’re feeling burned out, and activities and vacation destinations that won’t earn you an eye roll. We’re even gonna throw in some awesome alone-time recommendations (because parents are people, too!).
The bottom line? If there’s a way for us to make your day better and brighter, we’re going to make it happen.
When it comes to trying to be creative in the kitchen these days, it’s always smart to have quick and easy family dinner ideas up your sleeve. That’s why we’ve collected dynamite dishes that take very little prep work and guarantee to satisfy the whole family. Even better? Some of these quick meal ideas call for the slow cooker!
Cheese? Check. Pasta? Check. Sounds like a total kid-pleasing easy dinner. Throw some rotisserie chicken in at the end of this recipe from The Cozy Cook to make it a one-pot meal.
We’re always looking for recipes that taste just like (better?) our favorite take-out items. This recipe for Cashew Chicken fits the bill, and it’s made in one skillet. Get the recipe from Modern Honey.
So maybe your kiddo hates peas. Or carrots. Or both. The good news is, this easy family dinner idea from The Cozy Cook is super adaptable, so you can throw in whatever the kids will actually eat.
Chicken Marsala is one of the ultimate comfort foods. This easy dinner recipe from Easy Chicken Recipes uses an Instant Pot to get the meal done in under 30 minutes, so we’re huge fans.
Beef stroganoff is a classic pasta dish, and this ground beef version from Chelsea's Messy Apron comes together quickly. It's a meal that even picky eaters can get behind. Get the recipe here.
It's right there in the title. This chicken is a little bit of heaven. It's also convenient, delicious, and can be adapted for Paleo diets! Grab the recipe by clicking here.
Ham and Swiss cheese nestled into pasta and baked to perfection? Yes, please! This surprisingly simple recipe can be made ahead of time and popped into the oven before dinner time. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island.
You’ll be able to serve up warm, tangy sandwiches in no time with this 30-minute recipe for Chicken Cordon Blue from Sprinkles and the Smiths. Best of all, it can be made in an air fryer, which makes it (almost) healthy.
Sheet pan nachos are a good option for busy families because you can add what you want, divide it up into sections for picky eaters, and of course, they’re ready in under 30 minutes. Get the scoop from Maple + Mango.
This chicken recipe is a keeper when it comes to weeknight dinner recipes! It only has a few ingredients, so you can get this into the Crock Pot in the morning in less than ten minutes! Get the recipe here.
Love your Instant Pot? Then you'll love this weeknight dinner recipe! Just sauté your beef, add veggies, beans, and spices and the pressure cooker will do the rest. Click here for the recipe.
The flavor of the sausage, parmesan cheese, and olive oil gives this dish all the seasoning it needs, which means there's no heavy sauce to make on the side. Get the recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron.
These meatloaf bites from our friend Catherine McCord of Weelicious are petite versions of your favorite comfort food. And you can bet they're perfect for kids' taste buds!
With BBQ sauce, pineapple, and rotisserie chicken, this pizza couldn't be more simple. Get the kids in on the cooking to make dinnertime extra fun! Click here for the recipe.
This pasta dish isn't too fancy, sports kid-friendly ingredients, and is sure to be a weeknight dinner recipe that you'll make again and again. Bonus: It only gets one pot dirty! Get the how-to here.
Everyone's favorite party app also makes a great dinner-in-a-pinch! And with just two ingredients and four steps, kids can help whip these up! Make your own with this recipe from Bake Me Some Sugar.
Creamy fettuccine Alfredo that's healthy, too? The secret to this recipe is sneaking spinach into the sauce and adding pre-cooked chicken. Get the recipe here.
Think outside the grilled cheese! These rollups have the classic taste kids love, with just a bit of a twist. And they only take 10 minutes to make! Find out how here.
You can fulfill your Korean food cravings in 15-20 minutes with this beef bowl recipe. And you probably have the ingredient list in your pantry! Click here for the recipe.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish
iStock
Want to introduce the kiddos to fish? Try this mild white fish covered in a crunchy parmesan crust. The ingredients are simple, and the flavors are excellent! Get the recipe here. Or, if you want to try salmon, check out our family-friendly salmon recipes here.
Is there anything more comforting than chicken and rice? We don't think so. This quick one-pot version from Scrummy Lane is one of our favorite easy family dinner ideas.
Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki
iStock
Fact: Kids love teriyaki. Another fact? This recipe from Our Little Acre uses the slow cooker and is super simple to make. What's not to love?
Every family knows that chicken breasts are the weeknight hero of the kitchen. They can be baked, sauteed, shredded, or thin-sliced, as long as the recipe isn’t too complicated. We’ve rounded up 18 kid friendly chicken breast recipes that are go-to for families who want a stress-free dinner that’s far from basic. Need more easy dinner ideas? Check out these quick meal ideas that take just 30 minutes or less.
Our love for Crock Pot dinners runs deep, and this Hawaiian Chicken from Weelicious tops the list. The sauce is a perfect mix of sweet and savory, while the star of the show—the chicken—stays tender and juicy. When the afterschool schedule is hectic and you want something warm and tasty ready when you get home, this dinner recipe is perfect for you.
If you want your kids to love what’s for dinner—get them involved in cooking it. Bashing the chicken in this Jamie Oliver recipe before you coat it in flavored crumbs makes it more tender, and it’s a task kiddos love. Pair with your favorite side dish for a guaranteed hit.
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
If you love stuffed chicken breasts, you’ll love this easier “smothered” version of the stuffed chicken. The assembly is straightforward: just put the creamed spinach, bacon, mushrooms, and Pepper Jack cheese on top of seasoned chicken breasts and bake everything uncovered to perfection. This kid friendly chicken breast recipe from Julia’s Album is anything but boring!
Customize this bruschetta chicken with your family’s favorites, like avocado, bacon, or minced olives. Also, the balsamic marinated chicken can be used in any meal prep dishes and is great as leftovers. Hop over to One Lovely Life for all the scrumptious details.
Chicken breasts, a handful of other ingredients, and a sheet pan are all you need for these Chicken Fajitas from Camille Styles. For a party (or picky eaters), set out the fillings and garnishes with a stack of just-charred tortillas and let everyone dig in. It’s super easy and fun.
This one is a fast food favorite made healthier at home. Choose the air-fryer or baking options; they’re both equally delicious. Check out the full recipe from Every Day Dishes. Bonus points for whipping up some homemade dipping sauce to go with them.
This gluten-free, kid friendly chicken breast dinner checks all the boxes. It’s high in protein, packs a lot of flavor, and only takes 20 minutes from start to finish. For all the yummy details, check out Every Day Dishes.
Calling all Instant Pot lovers! This Buffalo Chicken from Boulder Locavore must be in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s a versatile way to get the flavor of buffalo wings on anything from a sandwich or pizza to an appetizer. The buffalo sauce can be store-bought or homemade, depending on preference and time.
Chicken Fingers on a Stick
WeeliciousThey’re on a stick and it’s got dipping sauce. Sounds like a total kid-pleasing, easy dinner. Get this classic chicken breast recipe here.
Let’s be honest; the best recipe is one that’s barely a recipe at all. This baked honey mustard chicken from Scrummy Lane will be on the table in a flash, and you only need three ingredients. Now, that’s a weeknight hero!
You can’t go wrong when you nestle your chicken between a bed of tomatoes and a blanket of mozzarella. Serve on top of pasta for a simple and easy Italian-inspired dinner. Click here for the recipe.
Is there anything more comforting than tortilla soup? We don’t think so. Make it in a crock pot or stovetop and customize it with your favorite toppings. The recipe from The Cozy Cook calls for chicken breasts, but a rotisserie chicken works great, too.
Here’s a slight twist on the traditional German Schnitzel. Usually, the meat is pounded thin with a meat tenderizer, coated with breadcrumbs, and then lightly fried. This kid friendly chicken breast recipe from Simple Home Edit is baked instead to make it healthier and easier to clean up. Don’t miss the tips in the recipe to keep the chicken from drying out and on how to get the perfectly crispy golden skin.
This one comes together quickly, is made with pantry staples, and tastes like an indulgent takeout dish. Yes, please! Simple Home Edit’s Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect comfort dish the whole family will enjoy.
With BBQ sauce, pineapple, and chicken breasts, this dish is a kid favorite. It also takes minimal effort, so you’ll love it too. Visit the Salty Pot here for the recipe.
If you’re having a few extra people at the dinner table or if you’re just craving a little comfort food mid-week, try this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole from Kristine’s Kitchen. It’s make-ahead friendly and every bite is packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
Sun-dried tomatoes, veggies, spinach, and chicken come together to make this one-pot pasta dish from Gimme Some Oven. The garlic basil cream sauce is one you’ll want to go back to time and again.
You’ll be amazed at what you can make with just three ingredients
If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the hunt for easy dinner recipes. The fewer ingredients we have to remember, the better (because no one likes doing a last-minute grocery store run!). To make all of our lives easier, we’ve rounded up a list of 3-ingredient recipes that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Read on to simplify your meal plan.
Your whole crew is sure to fall in love with this silky soup from Just a Taste. It’s practically begging to be topped with your favorite add-ons, from a simple swirl of olive oil to crumbled bacon or crispy chickpeas.
Dry, overcooked chicken will be a thing of the past once you try this 3-ingredient recipe from Cooking with Janica. Their easy method yields a juicy, well-seasoned chicken breast—perfect for pairing with rice, salad, or potatoes.
Our hunt for perfectly crispy roasted potatoes has finally come to an end, thanks to A Clean Bake. This foolproof method will have your whole family asking for seconds.
Delicious salmon is less than a half hour away, thanks to this 3-ingredient recipe from Savory Nothings. Bonus points if you make your own teriyaki sauce (but we won’t judge if you go for the bottled stuff!).
Grab your soup pot and make a big batch of this soup from Honey and Birch! With the homey goodness of tomato soup and tortellini (a kid fave!), we guarantee it'll disappear in no time.
Make-ahead-meal alert! We love how these sandwiches from A Taste of Madness can be frozen and then heated whenever you need a quick and easy school lunch. Plus, you can always customize it with your kiddo’s favorite lunch meat.
Taco night just got way easier, thanks to this genius recipe from Lanc Foodie Girl. Set up the slow cooker in the morning, and dinner will be hot and ready by the time you get home.
No one likes a dry pork chop! Good news: this recipe from Gimme Some Grilling is going to be your new go-to method for the juiciest (and easiest) pork. The secret ingredient is hiding in the grocery store spice aisle.
We’re always on the hunt for healthy snacks that the little ones will actually eat, and these sweet potato wraps from Lemons & Basil get the toddler seal of approval. You can fill them up with butter, cheese, or peanut butter for a perfectly balanced snack.
Three ingredients and a few hours in a Crock Pot and bam! Now you have killer BBQ chicken wings to feed the masses, all thanks to this recipe from Intelligent Domestications. Plus the kids will get a kick out of the “secret ingredient.”
Get your tiny taste testers’ hands deep into potatoes when they help you make gnocchi from scratch! Pair this step-by-step tutorial from Eugenie’s Kitchen with the tomato sauce later in this roundup.
Roll up ham and cheese for a dinner that will have the little ones forgetting about their pre-boxed meat, cheese, and crackers (you know which ones we're talking about!). You and your kids can whip up this recipe from It's Peachy Keen in less than 20 minutes for a fun, fingers-only meal.
You know that stockpile of juice boxes your family has been collecting? This sweet recipe, courtesy of Oatmeal With a Fork, puts them to good use! This chicken is flavorful and easy to make—and we’re willing to bet it’ll be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.
A dinner that is fun to make, fun to look at, and deliciously satisfying to eat? Please let your burgeoning kitchen master bring these pinwheels to your dinner table. Weary Chef simplifies it down so your little one can get artsy with their greens before rolling it up to bake.
For the easiest (and kid-friendliest) side dish, you’ve got to try these green beans from Nyssa’s Kitchen. Her method leaves the beans perfectly tender with a little char on the outside. Drooling yet?
If your little one is tired of sandwiches, switch it up with this tortilla version on the stove. It’s literally as simple as spreading peanut butter and jelly on a tortilla, then heating up before devouring.
This easy dish subs nutritional yeast for parmesan and olive oil for butter to make a simple, dairy-free alternative to your kiddo’s favorite go-to pasta dish. Just cook spaghetti or linguine noodles according to the package, toss in enough olive oil to coat, and sprinkle liberally with nutritional yeast. You can add parsley, pepper, and a pinch of salt if you’re a rule-breaker.
We know your kids can’t get enough of meatballs once they’re on the table—it’s time to teach them where those delicious things come from. Take a peek at Persnickety Plates’ recipe for three-ingredient slow cooker pineapple teriyaki meatballs and have your little sous chef’s help with all the prep.
This one's an easy one for momma's helper, and it's done in no time at all. The Honour System has got tomato sauce down to a two-step science: simmer and stir!
Your iron chefs-in-training may or may not be ready for handling raw salmon, but they can certainly help out with a sweet and spicy glaze from For the Love of Cooking.
Give your kids the independence they want with these meal ideas they can make without assistance
Summer mealtime can be a drag for parents as kids waffle between “I’m bored!” and “I’m hungry!” Adding meal preparation to an already busy schedule is something we’d all like to avoid. We’ve rounded up simple recipes for kids that include everything from quesadillas to pinwheels to breakfast tacos. From preschoolers to teens, kids can feel good about preparing their own meals this summer and you’ll have one less thing on your to-do list.
Kids of any age can whip up fruit kabobs for an easy and healthy snack. For preschoolers, keep a bowl of cut-up fruit in the fridge (or just buy a pre-chopped bowl like we do) and skewers on hand. When the hangries arrive, let your littles have fun making their own fruit skewers. Extra points for dips like yogurt or whipped cream!
Little hands will be able to put together an easy snack like this. Just use any kind of bread (we like pita because it’s a little more sturdy), smear with peanut butter or Nutella, then top with sliced bananas. This is a great option for preschoolers because both the spread and bananas can be prepared using a non-sharp knife.
It can’t get much easier than combining yogurt, fruit, and maybe even granola (we prefer Nilla Wafers) into the easy snack that is a parfait. The great part is there’s no chopping required if you use small berries and each kid can customize their own.
If your kids can use the microwave, they can whip up a quesadilla! Just layer cheese between two tortillas and microwave until the cheese is melted. This is a great option if you have multiple kids in the house who might prefer their own toppings since everyone can take a turn customizing their own ‘dilla.
Whether it’s a pack of instant oatmeal or you trust your elementary-age kids on the stove, oatmeal is a great breakfast, snack, or lunch option they can make on their own. Add a dollop of peanut butter, sliced fruit, or chocolate chips to give it a whole new taste.
At the bare minimum, your kids can whip up a plate of nachos with just two ingredients (cheese & chips). If they want to get fancy, feel free to have them pile on the olives, pico, and anything else they want after a quick spin in the microwave.
Ramen is a great meal kids can make on themselves because you can either do a Cup Noodle, and avoid the stove by heating water in a kettle, or use the brick Ramen option that cooks in just a few minutes. Either way, make sure your older kids are mature enough to handle using hot water in the kitchen.
A picky eater’s dream, macaroni and cheese is a good meal option a kid can have in their arsenal. You can go the super easy route by buying Easy Mac, which can be made in the microwave, or teach your older kids how to safely navigate a stovetop recipe. Better yet, try out an Instant Pot version!
If there’s one meal most kids will never turn down, it’s pizza. This recipe for Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza lets them avoid making a mess by trying to flip and spin the dough. Just grab some of the thick bread and top with sauce, cheese, and toppings before going in the toaster oven or airfryer.
The last thing any kid wants during the summer is a sandwich thanks to a school year long’s worth of lunches. Skip the bread with these turkey and cheese pinwheels which just require some layering of ingredients, a quick roll up, and some slicing to give that fun shape. Not a turkey fan? Your kids can make it with ham, roast beef, hummus, veggies, or even just PB&J.
Can you kids toast their own bagel and add cream cheese? Sure. But can they make an Old Man Bagel that’s even more fulfilling? YES! All you need to do is top a toasted bagel with cream cheese, avocado, and some lemon pepper seasoning to give your breakfast, lunch, or snack (because really, we could eat a bagel any time of the day) a step up.
Breakfast, snack, or lunch—a smoothie is always a good option an older kiddo can whip up. So long as you keep the ingredients on hand like spinach, banana, and other frozen fruits and you teens know how to safely operate a blender, this is a great option they can do on their own. Check out our post on some great recipes here.
When you’re sweating it out in the summer, the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove and make an elaborate dinner. From refreshing salads and cold dinner ideas to delicious wraps, we’ve whipped up a list of our favorite summer recipes that don’t involve cooking. Take a break from the oven and make one of these tasty no-cook meals!
These fresh and delicious shrimp spring rolls from Tastes Better from Scratch are such an easy cold dinner idea, you’ll want to add them to your recipe rotation ASAP.
Grab a bag of pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, roast chicken, peanuts, and other yummy ingredients like ginger, soy, and of course, peanut butter, and whip up this Thai-inspired chicken salad from Pinch of Yum without ever having to turn on the stove or oven.
Great as a side or a delicious dinner, this summer corn salad is refreshing and light. Made with a homemade dressing, you can easily dress up this salad by adding a protein and make it easier, by chopping up everything the night before! Find the recipe at Hip2Save.
Psst! The secret to this chicken salad from How to Feed a Loon—besides fresh and simple ingredients—is that it uses rotisserie chicken. It makes the prep work extra easy and the result extra delicious. Enjoy it as a sandwich or on top of a bed of lettuce!
Mexican Bean Salad
Canva
Now, this is our kind of cooking: the most work you’ll have to do for this Mexican-inspired salad is chopping and opening a few cans of beans. And since letting it sit helps the flavors meld together, it tastes even better the day after you make it. To get the recipe, click here.
Your mind will be blown when you try this tomato sauce that doesn’t require any cooking at all. Just throw all the ingredients into the blender or food processor and prepare to be impressed. Click here to grab the recipe.
These tasty pinwheels from Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish make the perfect lunch or light dinner. With an assist from a rotisserie chicken, a little spinach, and a sprinkling of taco seasoning, they’re as tasty as they are a healthy summer recipe.
One of our favorite cold dinner ideas! Inspired by the classic lobster roll, you can make these with pre-cooked crab from the store. With a few other ingredients, you’ll have a no-cook meal ready in under 30 minutes. Click on the picture for this incredible summer recipe.
What do you get when you combine pasta and Caesar salad? This dish from Life Made Simple! It’s loaded with all the classic flavors you expect—crisp romaine, pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and lots of cheese!
It doesn’t get much more refreshing than this noodle-free pad Thai by Cookie and Kate. Fresh and crunchy veggies are coated with a sweet, tangy, slightly salty peanut sauce to make a fabulous light dinner.
This Dutch recipe from A Gourmet Food Blog has all the makings of an instant kid favorite: crusty bread, lunchmeat, and a little mayo. It’s a fun way to take your bologna sandwich to the next level.
For a super fresh and satisfying dinner, you’ve got to try this fun take on taco boats from Minimalist Baker. Veggies are nestled into leaves of romaine, then it’s all drizzled with hummus and a creamy tahini sauce.
When it’s too hot to contemplate cooking, a bagel bar is THE way to go. There are a million delicious ways you can layer them up, and the results can be as hearty and healthy as you want. Get inspired to make your own over at The View from Great Island.
Here’s a win-win idea from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook: skip the over-complicated summer meal and get the kids to eat more greens. They’ll love this cobb salad, which sports delicious add-ons like avocado, smoked turkey, and egg.
When you need a summertime meal, keep it simple! Combine fresh mozzarella and tomatoes for an easy peasy, kid-approved salad. For the quick how-to, (courtesy of Chef Brendan Collins), click here.
These rollups from Arla are a great way to change up a lunch routine or give your usual summertime dinner a new spin. Use your favorite cheese, add in some extra veggies for a healthy kick, and you’re good to go!
Psst! Looking for a salad that won’t trigger your picky eater’s veggie radar? This no-cook meal from Dinner at the Zoo is loaded with meat, cheese, olives and yes, veggies, so it’s got a range of tasty ingredients. You can even top it off with a homemade Italian-style dressing!
This delicious wrap idea from Chelsea’s Messy Apron is super flavorful and even includes hummus and a bunch of good-for-you vitamins and minerals. Eat it straight-up as a summertime salad or just have a tasty wrap for dinner!
For a cold dinner idea that everyone will love, why not go the classic route of sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta? This salad is a cinch for picky eaters—just arrange it on the table salad-bar style, which allows each family member to create their own unique dish. Snag the recipe for this no-cook meal here.
The step that takes the longest in this five-step recipe? Boiling the water!
Your busy weeknight calls for a lightning-fast dinner. Next time you need to make dinner in a pinch, check out this Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe from Regina of the food blog, Leelalicious. It takes only 20 minutes to make and offers a nice balance of carbs, protein, and greens (from the pesto).
Yields 2-3 servings
Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Pasta:
8 ounces dry pasta* (I used fusilli)
1 chicken breast, cut into thin strips
salt + pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup pesto
chopped almonds and feta crumbles for garnish
Notes from the Chef: *use gluten-free, whole wheat, or low-glycemic pasta according to needs and preferences
Method:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add dry pasta, and cook until al dente.
2. Cut chicken breast into small strips. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add chicken strips and sear until fully cooked.
4. Add ¼ cup of the pasta water to the skillet with the chicken. Drain pasta, then add to chicken together with pesto and stir everything until fully combined.
5. Serve hot and garnish with chopped almonds and feta crumbles.
For more delicious meal ideas your family will love hop on over to Leelalicious. And, don’t forget to follow her on Facebook by clicking here.
Save yourself some major time (and stress!) with these picky eater hacks!
The struggle is real when it comes to the battle of the picky eater. Even if you’ve made sure to follow all the “rules” about starting your little ones out with a variety of foods so that they have a taste for lots of different flavors or not forcing them to eat anything, it’s entirely possible you’ve still ended up with a picky eater. And that’s completely okay! You’re most definitely not alone. The good news is that you don’t have to dread every food interaction with these brilliant picky eater hacks!
There are some fabulous ideas out there to make getting your little ones to eat. Or, at least, to get the nutrition they need if they aren’t willing to eat a balanced diet. We’ve found some of the best supplements, books, tools, and of course snack and meal ideas that make eating not just easier, but also, dare we say, fun? There are lots of solutions available, and we have some of the best right here. And not to worry—lots of kiddos grow out of their picky eater stage eventually, and, quite honestly, as long as they’re actually eating, you can consider that a win, too! These picky eater hacks will just make it so much simpler!
Kabrita Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder
Kabrita is an easy way to get your kids the nutrition they need! It has a mild flavor that little ones love and each glass of their Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder is 6g of gentle A2 protein, along with prebiotics and added probiotics to help support a healthy gut! Kabrita Junior is an ideal nutritional boost for picky eaters—fortified with DHA, and vitamins C, D and E to support their immune system. And keep an eye out for Kabrita at Costo soon!
One of the many glowing reviews of the Kabrita Snack Puffs with Goat Cheese from John P. raves that the "These puffs are our son’s favorite; always a hit!". They taste fantastic and are an awesome first finger food! And keep an eye out for Kabrita at Costo soon!
The "after you eat treat" is smile-friendly, thanks to ingredients that help neutralize the acidity and raise the pH level in your mouth. High acidity contributes to tooth decay, so by reducing acidity, Zollipops can help teeth re-mineralize faster and make them stronger and harder!
Probiotics keep not only your kiddos' bellies happy, they also contribute to boosting their immunity! For kiddos 3+, just add a flavorless, dissolvable packet to food like yogurt or applesauce. How easy is that?
Believe it or not, kids love these seaweed sheets! They have a crispy texture that's a lot of fun to snack on for little ones. Don't believe us? Check out this review from Amazon: "My kids love it. My 18 month old baby eats seaweed like candy. My 10 year old also has claimed this as her favorite snack." It's one of almost 22K reviews, too!
hint Kids Water has no calories, sugar, diet sweeteners, calories, preservatives, animal products, dairy, MSG, nuts, or gluten and comes in 4 fruit flavors!
Veggie up anything with these veggie sprinkles from Easy Peasie! Simply put, they're non-GMO dried vegetables that have been ground up into shakable sprinkles that you can add to everything from spaghetti to smoothies to sweets.
Designed by a mom with fussy eaters of her own, the SpinMeal lets you add different foods into the fun compartments and let kiddos spin the arrow and eat from the compartment where it lands!
Fuel their minds and their bodies with this awesome memory snack game! Kids get to test their memories and snack away. It also makes sneaking a few new foods into their game much easier!
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