As a parent, you likely know how hard it is to get your kid to eat healthy dinners. Every time you put vegetables in front of them, they shove the plate away and demand packaged snacks, fast food or dessert. It may feel like a losing battle sometimes—while you want to eat healthier, your kids have other ideas. So, what to do? How do you find things that will leave kids full and satisfied, and are appealing to you and the older members of the family as well? Well, worry no more and use our ideas for some inspiration.
Recipe one: Grilled Buttermilk Chicken
Swap fried chicken for a lighter alternative with this moist and savory grilled version. If your kids do not mind light herbs, add some thyme for a hint of flavor. Serve with corn and a salad to keep things balanced. The light grilling and easy cutting makes it a winner for little foodies.
Recipe two: Healthy Baked Salmon Nuggets
Who can resist the crispy, crunchy coating of traditional fish sticks? Sure, they may be aimed at kids, but we know an adult or two who has been known to snag some for themselves. Now comes this healthier elevated version that even the pickiest of kids will like: salmon nuggets. Fresh or frozen salmon works here, and it is easy to clean up, score. Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs and spices coat these fish pieces and make for a tantalizing dinner. Dip in ketchup, ranch or a healthy yogurt dip, whatever your little one loves.
Recipe three: Classic Burger with Secret Sauce
Caramelized onions, juicy meat and a secret sauce make this burger a classic for adults. But, what if you want to make things a little more digestible for everyone? Make mini burgers and put them on slider buns, pile on the veggies and serve the sauce to dip. Skip the cheese for fewer calories.
Recipe four: Lightened Up Mac and Cheese
Thanks to skim milk, low-fat sour cream and part-skim and low-fat cheese, this Food Network recipe offers up a lighter version of the dinner staple. Reduce it to only a couple cheeses for an even lighter take, and serve with plenty of vegetables. Corn or broccoli are winners.
Recipe five: Healthy Turkey Meatloaf
Who says kids do not like meatloaf? When made the right way, they will gobble it up. Made with protein-packed turkey, this iteration comes topped with a sweet tomato sauce that tastes like most kids’ favorite condiment: ketchup. Serve with baked potatoes topped with plain Greek yogurt.
Recipe six: Sweet Potatoes with Warm Black Bean Salad
This recipe for speedy potatoes is a must when time is short. Simply place them in the microwave and then rise beans, cut tomatoes and that is it. So quick and easy. Smaller potatoes may be better for the kids, but this makes for a filling vegetarian meal.
Recipe seven: Meat Lovers Pizza Quinoa Casserole
If you are searching for a less carb-heavy take on Pizza Night, try this casserole with layers of sauce, meat and quinoa. You will not miss the crust after you have had this flavorful dish. Great for kids young and old.
Recipe eight: Upside-Down Shepherd’s Pie
Skip the skillet and the layering and serve this loaded beef and veggie mixture over mashed potatoes. Note that this recipe makes four adult-sized servings, but may need to be cut in half for the kiddos.
Recipe nine: Easy Meatball Subs
Gooey, slightly messy and oh-so-delicious, these are musts for busy weeknights. It is ready in a half an hour or less, giving you more time to spend as a family. Serve on whole-grain buns and alongside a green salad for a hearty meal.
Recipe ten: Vegan BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches
Sauce, ‘meat,’ and squishy buns are standouts in this vegan dish. Pro tip: make extra slaw to serve on the side to really eat your greens. Slider buns or a half a regular-sized bun may be better for kids.
We hope you like making these meals for everyone to savor. They are sure to put a smile on your kid’s faces! Happy family dinner night.
