Finding plant-based recipes that kids genuinely love can be a challenge, but these five easy, kid-approved dishes will keep them coming back for more. These recipes are simple, healthy, and fun to make together—perfect for getting even the pickiest eaters excited about veggies. So, grab an apron, and let’s dive into these family-friendly favorites!

1. Cheesy Vegan Mac and “Cheese”

A comforting classic with a plant-based twist! This mac and “cheese” uses cashews and nutritional yeast for a creamy, cheesy flavor that kids adore.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 10 minutes, then drained)
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender, blend soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
3. Pour the sauce over cooked pasta, stirring to combine. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve with a sprinkle of parsley or a side of veggies!

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2. Mini Vegan Pizza Bagels

Mini bagels make a fun, hands-on way for kids to create their own pizza masterpieces. Customize toppings to suit everyone’s tastes!

Ingredients:

• 4 mini bagels, sliced in half
• 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded vegan cheese
• Toppings: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or any favorite veggies

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on each bagel half.
3. Sprinkle with vegan cheese and add toppings.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
5. Let cool slightly, then enjoy your mini pizza bagels!

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3. Veggie-Packed Smoothie Bowls

Bright, colorful, and easy to customize, smoothie bowls are a great way to sneak in fruits and veggies. Kids can choose their own toppings for extra fun!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen mixed berries
• 1/2 banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup spinach or kale (optional, but invisible in taste!)
• 1 cup almond milk or orange juice
• Toppings: granola, fresh fruit slices, chia seeds, coconut flakes

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine berries, banana, greens, and almond milk. Blend until smooth and thick.
2. Pour into a bowl and let kids add their favorite toppings.
3. Serve with a spoon and enjoy!

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4. Chickpea “Chicken” Nuggets

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these chickpea nuggets are packed with protein and perfect for dipping.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and mashed
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1/2 cup additional breadcrumbs for coating
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine mashed chickpeas, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape into nugget-sized patties.
3. Dip each nugget into flour, then almond milk, then roll in breadcrumbs.
4. Pan-fry in a small amount of oil until golden and crispy, about 3 minutes on each side.
5. Serve with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or any favorite dip!

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5. Banana Nice Cream Sundaes

A super easy and healthy dessert! Made with frozen bananas, this “nice cream” is naturally sweet and ready for toppings.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Toppings: chopped strawberries, chocolate chips, granola, or shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. In a blender, blend frozen bananas and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
2. Scoop into bowls and let kids add their favorite toppings.
3. Serve immediately for a deliciously refreshing treat!

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Final Thoughts: Making Plant-Based Fun for Kids

Each of these recipes is a hit with kids and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. With colorful ingredients, hands-on preparation, and flavors kids love, these meals make plant-based eating exciting and accessible for everyone. Try them out and enjoy some happy, healthy meals together!