Keep things festive and simple this year with little bites you can make on the fly
Celebrating the holidays with little ones brings its own set of challenges—like managing energy levels, non-existent bedtimes, and finding ways to keep them busy while you get ready for family—but having kid friendly appetizers can go a long way in making the season a success. Whether you want your offering to be creative and colorful or just plain delicious, we’ve got the best quick (like 30 minutes or less!) and easy finger foods to make this year. For more ideas, check out our favorite 3-ingredient appetizers.
Warm cheese, crispy egg roll shell, sweet chili dip, what’s not to love? This kid friendly appetizer is so easy, you can whip up a batch right before your guests arrive. Get the recipe from Instru Pix.
If there’s a food that’s not made better with bacon, we’re not sure we want to know about it. These savory chicken bites have just enough spice for adults but are still a kid’s favorite. You’ll find the recipe in the IG post above.
Mini Grilled Cheese Bites
Celebrate NYE with a kid favorite: grilled cheese! These bite-sized morsels are easy to put together and guaranteed to please a crowd. Don’t forget the tomato soup shooters! To get the recipe, visit The View from Great Island.
We love that this pull-apart pizza ring can be made with any type of toppings: cheese, veggies, sausage, or just about anything you desire! And, only requiring 20 minutes in the oven, it's an appetizer that can be made quickly.
This seven-layer bean dip recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron is a cinch to make, can be paired with chips or veggies, and can be made in advance. What's not to love?
Mini Stacks
iStock
There's nothing like a stack of pancakes to suggest you've made it through 'til morning! These mini stacks skewered with party picks and topped with a slice of fresh fruit are sure to go down well. Dust with confectioners sugar for a sweet touch and a hint of snowfall. Kraft Canada has the how-to.
These might be one of our favorite finger food ideas! The hardest part might be shaping your mini tortilla in a muffin tin because the filling comes together quickly and is ready to be served in 30 minutes. Get the recipe from Gimme Some Oven.
This ham and cheese pie uses pre-rolled pastry, making it an easy addition to any party platter. It calls for just four ingredients sandwiched between flaky puff pastry. After 20 minutes in the oven, you'll have a pie that can be sliced into bite-sized squares and tastes so good you'll be making it again and again.
A cheese board is an obvious snack table centerpiece—and crackers are always a big hit with kids! Layer up a tray with the help of Take Two Tapas where you'll find a tutorial to answer all your questions. You can create an appetizing feast of cooked and cured meats, fresh and dried fruit, sliced veggies, and dips that kids and adults can both enjoy.
Popcorn is one of the easiest snacks, and this recipe just adds melted chocolate and crushed candy canes to make the perfect celebratory treat. Use half regular popcorn and half kettle corn for sweet, minty popcorn with all the delicious flavors of peppermint bark. Head to Endlessly Inspired for the how-to.
Harness the magic of New Year's Eve with these colorful rainbow wands! Get the recipe from Mom On Time Out and see how versatile they are. They can be easily made in batches and are a great combo of sweet and savory that adds pizzazz to any party platter.
Nothing revives a flagging toddler like a fist full of fries, and these cinnamon sweet potato sticks are no exception. The best part? They take just five minutes to prep! Relish their sweet and savory flavors as you celebrate the season. Head to Weelicious for the recipe.
We’re pretty sure this appetizer idea qualifies as pure genius. Just take your family’s fave tortellini, stick ‘em on skewers, and set them on a pretty tray. You’ll get major presentation points with zero fuss. To learn more, visit My Fussy Eater.
Make your NYE party extra magical with an appetizer that only uses two (count ‘em, two!) ingredients. These pigs in a blanket are the definition of simple—and you can even add a touch of sesame seeds to up the wow factor. Get the recipe over at Culinary Hill.
Serve these delish meatballs as an NYE app or a heartier dinner—either way, we’re sure kids and grownups alike will love them. The best part is that you can use whichever cheese is a household fave! Get The Weary Chef’s recipe by clicking here.
Homemade tater tots? Yes, please! These muffin tin tots are filled with cheese, chives, and bacon, and taste just like mini-loaded baked potatoes. ‘Nuff said, right? Get the recipe over at Well Plated.
Cheesy, crispy warm pasta bites? Yes, please! This super simple finger food recipe uses store-bought ravioli (choose any flavor you like!), parmesan cheese, and panko bread crumbs to create a kid-friendly appetizer that's sure to be snatched up at your next holiday gathering. Get the recipe over at Food Fanatic.
Buying earrings is easy, but knowing where to get your child’s ears pierced can be downright intimidating. We’ve rounded up the best children’s ear piercing places—from pediatric ear piercing doctors to kid-friendly tattoo parlors—to help you make an informed decision. If you’ve worked up the nerve to face the ear gun, read on for the best places to go in the DMV.
Start with your own pediatrician as many will perform piercings for patients. If yours doesn’t offer ear piercing, try Potomac Pediatrics in Rockville The cost is $95 and includes a pair of 24 karat gold stud earrings and the option to use numbing cream. DC Derm Docs, a local dermatologist specializing in cosmetic and general medical dermatology,offers ear piercing to patients of all ages using a brand of earrings only available to medical professionals. They provide Blomdahl earrings and offer both gold and silver studs which are available with or without a crystal. The posts themselves are Titanium, which guarantees protection from nickel allergies. Blomdahl earrings are available exclusively to physicians.Capitol Medical Group has ear piercing available on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday with Dr. Markovic. The piercing includes a pair of 24 karat gold plated or stainless steel stud earrings. Tyson Pediatrics in McLean, VA also offer ear piercing.
Okay, so most parents aren’t too excited about taking their kids to a piercing parlor but many can actually provide a clean, friendly, safe place for ear piercing. Check out Craig Pokes U in Arlington where children are welcome with an accompanying parent or legal guardian. They are all licensed piercing professionals and make you feel comfortable. Brilliance Piercing in Vienna, pierces children ages 7-12, by appointment, to make sure there is plenty of time to ask questions and thoroughly explain the entire process. You are even encouraged to visit the studio any time to ask questions or meet their piercers.
Craig Pokes U 4818 Lee Hwy. Arlington, VA 703-268-6583 Online: craigpokesu.com
Brilliance Piercing 421 Church St. NE Suite C Vienna, VA 703-261-6130 Online: brilliancepiercing.com
Mr. B's Tattoos 7554 Bel Air Rd. Baltimore, MD 410-668-3567 Online: mrbstattoo.com
Get the Spa Treatment
Guiomar Ochoa
For a more glitzy experience for your pink loving, tutu wearing girly-girl, check out Sweet& Sassy, a little girl’s spa and salon in Leesburg. Earrings and a little kit to commemorate the event are included in the price of piercing. Belezza Lase in Fairfax will even give your little princess a tiara, wand and “brave kid” certificate. They also have tons of different earrings to choose from.
Sweet & Sassy 1601 Village Market Blvd. SE Leesburg, VA 703-552-8390 Online: sweetandsassy.com
Belezza Lase 4015 Chain Bridge Rd. Suite L Fairfax, VA 703-273-5273 Online: bellezalase.com
The usual suspects, Claire’s and Piercing Pagoda, are where most kids in the DMV go to get their ears pierced. Probably since one or the other is located at just about every local mall. Drop-ins are welcome and both are well set up to manage the excitement and anticipation of children’s ear piercing. Today’s Cargo, a jewelry store in Old Town Alexandria, offers ear piercing to 7 year olds and up. Appointments are accepted only during weekdays. Their experienced piercer uses the Inverness system and only 14K gold.
Today’s Cargo 1102 King St. Alexandria, VA. 703-836-6866 Online: todayscargo.com
Claire’s Union Station, Pentagon City, Tysons Corner, National Harbor Online: claires.com
If you love baked goods and math, it’s almost your lucky day! We’ve got the scoop on where to get free pie—and a whole lot more—for Pi Day. Arithmetic enthusiasts already know that Mar. 14, a.k.a., 3/14 is the first three digits of the mathematical constant known as Pi. In celebration of this day, plenty of eateries are offering either deep discounts or straight-up freebies.
Here’s where can you find Pi Day pies this year, of both the sweet and savory varieties.
Get a free slice of ABC Crumb Pie, with any purchase, at all 15 of the Michigan-based pie shops on Mar. 14. GT Pie Company’s ABC Crumb Pie features apples, blueberries and cherries—all from Michigan! If you don’t live in or near one of GT’s shops, order your Pi Day pies online via the company’s website. You’ll need to order by Mar. 10 for Pi Day delivery. Sorry, the promotional free slice doesn’t apply to online orders.
With locations in Charleston, Columbia and West Ashley, South Carolina, this pie place has slices on sale for $3.14 from 5 pm through 10 pm on Mar. 14.
If your holiday mantra is always “more peppermint, please!” then you’re in luck. We’ve gathered festive recipes that up the ante when it comes to everyone’s fave seasonal flavor. From peppermint bark recipes to peppermint cheesecake and a legit peppermint patty, scroll down to discover peppermint treats that all your little elves will love.
Peppermint Patty
You won't ever want to buy a York Peppermint Patty again after tasting this homemade version we spotted over at House of Yumm. Using real dark chocolate, this will be a go-to recipe for years to come. Get it here.
We’re loving the wow-factor of these cookies from Well Plated. They’re a peppermint version of Mexican Wedding Cookies, meaning they’re melt-in-your-mouth and totally irresistible. Get the recipe here.
Everyone’s fave holiday candy gets a delicious cookie twist, thanks to The Kitchen is My Playground. Not only are these almond sugar cookies a classic treat— they’re also easy to make and sprinkled with crushed candy canes and sugar. Get the recipe here.
Grab a cuppa and gather ‘round for peppermint hot chocolate that’s festive, comforting, and vegan, too! Lauren Caris Cooks is the genius behind this rich and creamy treat and you can snag her recipe here.
Get ready for your newest snack addiction, courtesy of The Hopeless Housewife. It’s a combination of popcorn, peppermint bark, crushed candy canes, and utter deliciousness. Get the recipe here.
Magical Candy Kisses
Leah Singer
Who doesn’t love a surprise— especially when it’s a candy cane Hershey’s Kiss? Red Tricycle’s own SPOKE Network Editor Leah makes these cookies on a yearly basis and the hidden candies are always a hit with kids. Get the recipe here.
Peppermint for breakfast? Yep, it’s a (delicious) reality. Closet Cooking shares how to kickstart your holiday mornings with extra festive scones. Get the recipe here.
Who knew that peppermint bark could be so cute? Not only has It’s Always Autumn come up with an oh-so-adorable holiday candy— she also has an easy-to-follow video so you’ll make the perfect bark every time. Get the recipe here.
When you need a little bite of dessert to get you in the holiday spirit, A Taste of Madness has you covered. These sweet little brownies are just the right size for little hands and pack a punch of peppermint flavor. Get the recipe here.
We all scream for candy cane ice cream! This wintery ice cream pie from Boulder Locavore is super simple to make and it’s covered in chocolate ganache. (Enough said.) Get the recipe here.
‘Tis the season for peppermint ice cream! If you can’t get enough of this cool treat, Almost Supermom has a refreshing solution. This ice cream is magically easy to make and doesn’t require an ice cream maker. Get the recipe here.
The air fryer is our new favorite appliance to play with, making everything from chicken wings to Brussels sprouts. But it’s not just for savory dishes—say hello to air fryer donuts! We’ve rounded up 10 awesome donut recipes made for the air fryer, from the quick and easy canned biscuit variety to more involved raised donuts. Scroll down to see them all.
With a texture somewhere between a croissant and a donut, this recipe from Fork to Spoon is bound to be an instant favorite. Thanks to the lightning-fast cook time, they may even be quicker than running to the donut shop, too. Click here to get the recipe.
Maple bacon is one of our go-to donut orders—you can’t beat that salty/sweet combination! Now you can whip up a batch at home in the air fryer, thanks to Peanut Butter & Fitness. To get the recipe, click here.
Pretend you’re on an island vacation with these tasty coconut lime donuts from EmilyFabulous. They’re made with canned biscuits and a quick glaze, making them the perfect simple and sweet treat. Click here to get the recipe.
If you’d like to take on a weekend cooking project, this masterpiece by Mary’s Test Kitchen is just the ticket. It’s a labor of love with vegan pastry cream, yeasted dough and a simple chocolate glaze. Click here to get all the details on how it’s done.
Try out this fun fall-inspired take on donuts from Bottom Left of the Mitten. The donuts are coated in a delicious mixture of cinnamon, sugar and pumpkin spice. To grab the recipe, click here.
Your kiddo’s favorite sandwich, now in donut form! This recipe from Hungry Couple is sure to be a hit, with plenty of jelly filling and a drool-worthy peanut butter glaze. Click here to get the recipe.
These donuts from Plated Cravings are just as good as the real thing, with a soft and fluffy interior. They take a little bit of patience since they’re made with yeast, but they’ll be well worth the time. Get the recipe by clicking here.
If you’re an apple fritter fan, you’ve got to make this amazing version from Rachel Cooks. They’re filled with apple chunks and cider, and an apple cider glaze gives it an extra touch of fall flavor. To get the recipe, click here.
Don’t want a whole baker’s dozen? This recipe from Unconformed Kitchen makes just a single donut (but of course, you can double, triple or quadruple it as needed). Click here to get the recipe.
You can’t go wrong with a classic jelly donut! This recipe from Everyday Family Cooking is super easy to pull off with a cake piping tip and your favorite raspberry jelly. To get all the details, click here.
No yeast? No problem! We’ve hunted up all the best bread recipes with no yeast required, and it’s a baking jackpot. From popover recipes and the best banana bread recipe ever to pizza dough with no yeast, here’s how to fulfill your bread cravings—no rising time needed.
Need a pizza fix ASAP? Go for this instant pizza dough from Inside the Rustic Kitchen! It skips the rising time of your standard homemade pizza dough and can be whipped up in just about five minutes. Get the kids to help, and you'll be all set! Snag the recipe here.
Color us impressed by this uber-creative idea from A Taste of Madness. Not only is it a bread recipe with no yeast, but it also gets a sneaky dose of flavor from salsa! Pair it with your fave soup or chili for a big dose of comfort food. Get the recipe here.
Trust us, the whole fam will go bananas for this easy banana bread. Your little chefs can mix it up themselves—and even throw in some chocolate chips for an extra treat. Click here for the recipe.
Want to make your whole house smell like a bakery? Turn to these cinnamon rolls from The View From Great Island. It's a no-knead and no-rise recipe, so these rolls are ready to eat in under an hour. Don't forget the icing! Get the recipe here.
Ready for some fun flatbread? The kiddos will love using this chapati (courtesy of Kitchen Sanctuary) to mop up soup, curries and stew. It only calls for a little bit of kneading and just five ingredients! Find the recipe here.
Psst! You can sneak extra veggies into your fam's diet with this recipe from Mireille Schwartz. Plus, your little sous chefs can get in on the action by grating the zucchini and mixing up the batter! Get the recipe here.
There's no need (and no knead) to wait for St. Patrick's Day to enjoy this Irish Soda Bread from Dinner at the Zoo. It's perfect for raisin bread lovers and a great option when you can't decide between sweet and savory. Score the recipe here.
Ready for a batch of biscuits that's no-frills, flaky and fluffy? Trust us, it's way easier to make than to say. This dreamy recipe from Well Plated is delish as-is, but you can also add extras like cheese and herbs. Get the recipe here.
When you're feeling fancy, try perfecting these popovers from Boulder Locavore. They've got fresh flavor and are easily customizable if you have different herbs on hand. Pop over here for the recipe.
Look, whether or not autumn is in the air, sometimes you just need a pumpkin bread fix. This recipe is chock-full of comforting spices and leaves you with a moist and fluffy loaf. Make your own with this recipe.
Forget your standard batter pancakes—these are actually a type of savory flatbread made from dough. They're super popular in China and Taiwan and a tasty way to bring something new to your dinner table. Get the recipe from Rasa Malaysia.
Vegetarians, rejoice! Slow cookers aren’t just for pot roasts anymore. As plant-based diets become more and more popular, we’ve seen an explosion of vegetarian and vegan Crock Pot recipes among foodie types. We’ve rounded up an impressive list of plant-based recipes to make in your slow cooker, from vegetarian chili to shepherd’s pie. Whether you embrace the Whole 30 diet, love plant-based protein or just want to up your veggie intake, keep reading for all the healthy goodness.
Healthy and gluten free, this "chicken" and rice recipe will pass muster with any kiddo. It takes just six ingredients (one of which is WATER) and three hours to get this tantalizing comfort food ready.
White wine, goat cheese, butternut squash and shallots are just a few of the beyond delicious ingredients for this slow cooker dish. Perfect for a fall evening, this meal cooks in as little as three hours and makes for tasty leftovers.
Tons of tofu and spinach come together in this delicious dish that tastes much better than it looks. Once you get past the appearance, get ready to sink your teeth into crispy tofu in a savory saag sauce.
Whether it's Meatless Monday or you're meal prepping for a busy week, this crock-pot friendly meal is a no brainer. With two types of beans, cheese and pasta, this hearty dinner can be enjoyed year round, and freezes wonderfully, too!
No chopping or pre-cooking? This quinoa black bean crockpot stuffed pepper recipe from Pinch of Yum couldn't be easier. The protein and fiber packed meal is easy to whip up and keeps you full until breakfast. Click here to get the full recipe.
This cheesy, saucy dish from Dizzy Busy & Hungry is almost like biting into an enchilada—but it’s way easier to make! Most of the ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have on hand. Click here to get the scoop on how it’s done.
We love this tasty twist on stuffed peppers from Peas and Crayons, made with plenty of bell peppers plus some lentils for added bulk. It’s hearty and healthy, making it the perfect weeknight meal. To grab the recipe, click here.
This recipe from Real Food Whole Life is so simple but so genius—cook up a delish black bean and salsa mixture at the same time as a few sweet potatoes, and dinner will be ready before you know it. Click here to get the recipe.
This sweet potato chili from Build Your Bite is the perfect meal for reluctant vegetarians because it’s so hearty, filling and delicious that no one will notice you skipped the meat. Get the recipe by clicking here.
Sloppy Joes aren’t just for meat eaters after all. This recipe from Peppers and Peaches uses unexpected ingredients to create a veggie sandwich rivaling the ones you remember from your childhood. To get the recipe, click here.
Skip the canned soup and go for the real thing! It’s easier than you’d think, thanks to this recipe from Well Plated. Serve up grilled cheese sandwiches on the side and you’ve got the perfect meal. Click here to get the recipe.
Korean Quinoa Bowl with Chickpeas, Carrots & Potatoes
This Korean-inspired dish from Veggies Don’t Bite is bound to be a favorite with your crew. Hearty veggies are flavored with a savory, not-too-spicy sauce and served over quinoa. To get all the details, click here.
It’s easy to overlook the humble lentil, but it can be the star of a meal when paired with the right ingredients. These lentil tacos from The Every Kitchen fit the bill: they’re bulked up with quinoa, flavored with just the right seasonings, and finished with whatever toppings your heart desires. Click here to snag the recipe.
This just might be the perfect lasagna: it’s assembled in the crock pot in less than 20 minutes, you can fill it with whatever veggies you like, and it’s perfectly saucy and cheesy. Click here to get all the details from Pinch of Yum.
Burrito bowls have never been easier, thanks to Easy Cheesy Vegetarian. Veggies, rice, black beans and spices come together to make a flavorful, healthy bowl that’ll put Chipotle to shame. Click here to get all the details.
Sunday dinner, vegetarian style! This shepherd’s pie recipe from Hey Nutrition Lady is comfort food at its finest, and it’s a breeze to make. Click here for the recipe, including Instant Pot instructions if you’re so inclined.
These enchiladas from Oh My Veggies are about to become a permanent fixture in your dinner rotation. They’re filled with pinto beans and corn and smothered in a homemade enchilada sauce. Get the recipe by clicking here.
The next time you’re cooking mashed potatoes, try this recipe from Food Fanatic. Not only will the potatoes turn out delicious, you’ll free up space on the stove for anything else you’re making. To get the recipe, click here.
Warm up with a comforting bowl of wild rice soup from Gimme Some Oven. It packs in the nutrients with plenty of veggies, but the creaminess makes it feel a little indulgent, too. Click here to get the recipe.
We love this simple idea from Pinch of Yum. Just cook up a flavorful filling of lentils and brown rice in the slow cooker, then pile it into quesadillas when you’re ready to eat. It’s cheesy, crunchy and hearty—what’s not to like?! To grab the recipe, click here.
The humble cabbage is having a renaissance. There is more to this versatile veg than a sauerkraut recipe or a cabbage soup recipe. We’ve rounded up a bunch of cabbage recipes that range from coleslaw to a unique take on a kimchi recipe. See our favorite cabbage recipes below.
This Cabbage Steak recipe from Well Plated is crispy on the outside and caramelized on the inside. It is the simple side dish you never knew you needed. Get the recipe here.
This delicious Cabbage Roll Soup recipe from One Lovely Life has all of the classic recipe elements with none of the agro. It is a one-pot dish, so it’ll even save you doing lots of dishes! Click here for the recipe.
When you think of a hearty cabbage recipe, a variation of this meal comes to mind. The Salty Pot has adapted it for the instant pot. You get a lot of satisfaction with minimum effort! Win-win! Grab the recipe here.
Want a variation on a traditional Sauerkraut recipe? This Hot Pink version from Nourished Kitchen so-called due to the use of red cabbage instead of white packs a flavorful punch. Grab the recipe here.
Looking for a unique kimchi recipe? Feasting at Home has come up with one in soup form. The combination of kimchi, shiitake mushrooms and kale is perfect served over noodles or rice. Click here for the recipe.
What do you get when you slowly cook a little cabbage, potato and warming Indian spices? You get this delectable Indian curry from The Wholesome Fork. Get the recipe here.
The Wimpy Vegetarian has gone next-level with this Black Bean & Avocado Tostada with Cabbage salad. It is so colorful and delicious, and there when you need a quick meal. Grab the recipe here.
Sometimes you just need to feel like you’ve ordered takeout. This Sesame Beef & Cabbage Stir-fry from Gimme Some Oven hits the spot. The bonus is that it’s good for you! Grab the recipe here.
Quick and easy dinner recipes can be the saving grace when it comes to a busy work and school week. Whether you need a new take on an old favorite or inspiration for simple dinner ideas, we’ve got a months worth of easy options that will make evening meal prep a breeze.
Add this cheesy quinoa bake to your weekly arsenal for a quick and easy dinner that's high in nutrition. Even veggie-hating kids will admit broccoli tastes better roasted, and in this recipe from Cookie and Kate, it is topped with cheese and breadcrumbs for a comfort food that's hard to resist.
Kale is still as popular as ever, and this gnocchi recipe combines a kale basil pesto with seasonal Brussel sprouts for a weeknight dinner that's comforting and full of flavor. Gimme Some Oven has the how-to.
These salmon cakes take no time to prep and can be cooked in less than ten minutes. The recipe in our archives gives tips on how to get kids helping—and soon enough cooking—in the kitchen. Serve with crunchy parboiled green beans.
Pasta and bacon are a winning combo especially when they create a quick and easy family dinner. This version uses frozen peas to make a dinner that's ready in less than 30 minutes. Switch out peas for spinach or broccoli depending on the veggie preferences at home.
Here's an easy dinner—a deconstructed version of the spicy tuna roll! Protein-packed tuna, brown rice, and veggies all smothered in mayo sauce make this both light and filling (and a cinch to prepare!). Adjust the seasoning and ditch the spicy red pepper for kids. Show Me The Yummy has the recipe and video.
Quesadillas meet lasagne in this quick-prep weekend dinner fave. Layer up tortillas with cheese, chicken and spinach, and you have a recipe the kids will love. Click here for the details.
The fancy-sounding frittata is actually a quick and simple meal. Pile grated cheese, cubed deli meats and roasted veg into the mix, and you have an easy dinner full of protein. Two Peas & Their Pod have a sweet potato, kale and goat cheese version that's sure to become a staple.
There's no shame in producing a toasty for dinner—this one uses pantry staples plus, it's so easy, soon enough the kids will be able to make their own! Serve with spiralized veggies or a bowl of soup, like this seasonal potato leek from Once Upon a Chef.
These Mexican enchilada fries might sound like a side dish but, topped with chicken, black beans and corn, they're likely to become a filling family favorite. The tray can be made a few hours ahead of time and reheated to crisp up when everyone's ready to eat. Get the recipe from Erin Clarke at Well Plated and skip the jalapeño if that's too spicy for kids.
Buttery puff pastry makes an alternative pizza base that will have dinner on the table in 30 minutes. Just brush with pesto, bake and top with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Plated Cravings has the recipe.
A one-pot dinner that hints of summer is the perfect mid-week pick-me-up. This version mixes sweet Italian sausage with potatoes, peppers and zucchini, and you can easily switch out the veggies your kids won't eat for ones they will.
Tenderloin is easy to cook, and this medallion recipe makes a delicious one-pan weeknight dinner that’s on the table in 30 minutes. Swap out the blue cheese for a milder blend if necessary and watch the kids come back for seconds. Get the recipe from Plated Cravings.
For a savory take on pancakes, try Borrowed Salt’s banh xeo. It’s a crispy crepe that’s filled with shrimp and bean sprouts, then topped off with fresh veggies and a tangy dipping sauce. Drooling yet? Click here for the recipe and here for a few other ways to turn pancakes into dinner.
Craving a dinner that's easy to cook and full of creamy goodness? This risotto from My Little Larder will have the family hungry for more, and it requires just 10 minutes of prep then goes in the oven—so almost no stove-top stirring.
Sometimes the kids just need noodles ... now! This quick-prep recipe does just that—puts noodly and nutritious food on the table, fast. Head to Pinch of Yum for the high-speed how-to.
Pork chops are easy on the wallet, and when they're coated in cheesy breadcrumbs, they are easy on the taste buds too. Baked in the oven for thirty minutes, this low maintenance meal from A Taste of Madness is quick to prep and good to eat.
Fish tacos are a winning dinner option. The fish is lightly seasoned, sauteed and served with warm tortillas and fresh salsa. Head to Weelicious for the how-to, plus tips on replacing fish with tofu. The recipe comes from Lisa Leake's 100 Days of Real Food.
Once you nail a version of veggie fried rice then you can really add any flavor combos you want. This kid-friendly kimchi fried rice is a versatile option or check out this simple version from our round-up of recipes designed to help you ring in the Lunar New Year.
This garlicky peanut dish is a great one to remember when you walk in the door late and everyone's hungry. It's ready in the time it takes to roast some broccoli florets. Soba noodles are combined with veggies in a tangy sauce for a quick weeknight dinner fix.
We think Popeye himself would approve of this dish. The spinach contains tons of iron, which can provide a pick-me-up when you’re feeling tired, and the eggs offer a protein boost. (Psst! Use puff pastry dough to cut down on prep time.) Get the recipe here.
Dumplings get a makeover in this simple recipe with pesto, parmesan, fresh tomato, and olive oil. Mixed together in a skillet, this is an easy weeknight dinner that's super comforting.
The meat in this stir-fry is ready in minutes. Mix with veggies on a bowl of rice and you'll be serving a dish of happiness for dinner. This recipe is easy to customize to your own family's tastes —sub in broccoli or cauliflower instead of green beans.
It's hard to beat a delicious bowl of warming soup and this recipe from My Fussy Eater produces a chunky broth full of Mexican flavor. This dish uses leftover cooked pork which can easily be substituted with deli meats.
Great for a weeknight dinner, these mini meatloaves are simple to make, quick to get to the table and totally adorable! Roast chopped potatoes at the same time as you cook the meat and dinner's done. Head to Aggie's Kitchen for the recipe and how-to video.
Think scrambled eggs are just for breakfast? Think again! This simple recipe from Cookie and Kate combines protein-rich eggs with easy-to-flip tortillas to make scrambled huevos rancheros which you can make in minutes, top with anything you like and eat any time of day!
This summer-inspired tray bake combines pineapples, peppers and sweet potatoes for a fresh, sweet roast of Hawaiian flavors. When you're looking for an easy one-pan dish to lift the family's spirits, this is it. Head to The Seasoned Mom for the recipe and here for other ideas for easy sheet pan dinners.
This dinner from The View From Great Island comes together in the time it takes to cook the pasta. Not only is it quick to prepare, it's also a good way to stretch a small fillet of salmon to feed the whole family. The citrus flavors also make it a great recipe to introduce salmon to reluctant fish eaters.
If you’re looking for a simple weeknight recipe, you’ve got to try out this kid-approved recipe. Baked sweet potatoes are stuffed with a healthy mixture of veggies, chicken and goat cheese. You can easily switch up the ingredients to fit your family’s preferences, too.
Which recipes are your weeknight dinner favorites? Let us know in the comments below.
We have a feeling you’ll be having a lot of family dinners in the next few weeks. Take advantage of this at-home time by implementing healthy habits at the table. Rebuild and strengthen your bond—with one of these habits brought to you by parents just like you. Scroll down to read more.
1) Device-free is the way to be. Want your kids to engage in meaningful conversation and enjoy their meal? Put away the devices and distractions. Turn off the TV, too. We can’t promise this will make your kids eat their peas, but at least they’ll hear you when you’re begging. Need more reasons? Check out Will Ferrell’s latest video as part of Common Sense Media’s campaign for #devicefreedinner campaign.
2) Fancy it up, a little. Doesn’t matter if it’s take-out or home cooked, swap out a few basics to make dinner a bit more special. Cloth napkins and serving spoons just might do the trick. Dim the lights, too. Make it cozy with mood lighting! (Also, then you won’t see all the stuff your kid just threw on the floor.)
3) Sit down, already. Every parent ever is guilty of running around the kitchen/house while the kids eat. Make it a point to sit down and talk with your kids, and eat your meal, at the same time as the kiddos, for one meal a day.
4) Say one thing that you are grateful for. Or try a game like Rose & Thorns: Each person talks about their thorn—something that bothered them that day or made them unhappy—and a rose—something they are proud of or that brought them joy.
5) Try a Meal Kit or Delivery. Cut down on the amount of dinner prep and spend more time with your kids at the table eating together. We know it’s easier said then done, which is why once a week we suggest making it a point to outsource the prep or even the whole meal. Our Editor recently tried, Plated. Each dish is chef-designed, meaning you get the restaurant quality food in the convenience of your own home. Plus, for those with food allergies, Plated is super clear about what the dish has and is free of.
6) Keep the gab going! We know, it’s hard to not say, “One more bite” or “Keep eating” throughout the meal, but with good conversation and less demands, you’ll be surprised how much your kid eats. Try one of these 26 honest conversation starters for families.
7) Kid’s Choice Awards. Instead of asking what everyone want’s for dinner, try giving each family member a vote for one meal a week. Yes, you may have pancakes for dinner once a week, but at least you won’t have to meal plan!
9) Let the kids help. No matter their age or stage, getting the kids engaged in meal prep can make them more interested in the meal itself. Plus, they will beam with pride when you brag about how helpful they were. Check out this list of things kids can do in the kitchen by themselves.
10) Consistency is key. We don’t mean the mashed potatoes: whenever possible, eat dinner at the same time every day. The predictability is comforting for kids, and it increases the chances they will be engaged in the meal.
11) Relocate. Of course, you want the majority of your meals to be around the family dinner table but sometimes a picnic on the living room floor, a meal on the deck if the weather is nice or even heading to a park can refresh everyone’s attitude about being together.
What are your family’s traditions for mealtime? Share with our community in a comment below!