Everyone is spending more time at home these days, which means that now is ideal for getting into the kitchen. If you have a full house, why not get everyone involved in the fun? All you need are some easy-to-follow recipes and the right ingredients — plus your appetite.
Not sure what to make? Here are 12 recipes that kids of all ages will enjoy. Who knows? Maybe letting them stir the pot will get them to eat their veggies without complaint!
Anytime Snacks That Kids Love
When you’re hungry, you can grab a bag of chips. However, you won’t get anything but empty calories. Why not try one of these recipes for great taste and some nutrients, too?
1. French Bread Pizza
Pizza represents the ultimate in convenience chow. You can top it with nearly anything, from breakfast favorites to sweet treats. You can substitute dinner rolls or English muffins for the crust if you don’t have a baguette handy. The critical component is giving the bread a light toast first. That way, it can hold up to the sauce and toppings without getting soggy. Any tomato sauce will do, or you can use pesto or alfredo for a unique twist.
2. Grilled Apple Crisp
Apple crisp is sweet like a dessert, but because it uses apples and pecans, you get some nutrients, too. Apples contain filling fiber, and pecans are rich in heart-healthy oils to keep your veins and arteries pliable. Plus, you can make this version on your grill, which means there’s no need to heat the oven. Enjoy the spring weather while barbecuing and get a treat in the bargain.
3. Ants on a Log
You might know the original ingredients of celery, peanut butter and raisins, but you can go wild with varieties, too. Nearly any type of veggie or fruit can serve as the “log” if you carve it correctly. You can use Nutella or yogurt as a filler and top your creation with any nuts or dried fruits.
Breakfast Ideas Your Family Will Love
Want to start your day off right? These recipes will get every family member fueled for the day.
4. Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Pancakes are a decadent indulgence, and they become even more so when you add peanut butter and chocolate. You won’t need syrup to enhance the sweetness, making these ideal if you run out of maple and don’t want to mask up to head to the store.
5. Sunny-Side Up Pizza
Remember the versatility of pizza? This version uses eggs, cheese and herbs to create the perfect pie. It’s way tastier than reheated takeout slices.
6. Granola Cups
You could merely fold granola into store-bought yogurt, but most containers don’t leave much extra room for stirring in toppings. These provide a handy cup, making these grab-and-go ready. If you planned a homeschool field trip to a nature area, these make an ideal on-the-road breakfast.
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Lunchtime Nibbles
While it may feel odd when you don’t hear the lunch bell ring, you still need to fuel your body all day. These recipes are designed to let kids prep them solo — in case you get caught on a conference call.
7. Chocolate Chip, PB and Banana Sandwiches
Your little ones can use white bread if they prefer it. They can also opt for a healthier multigrain variety. The sticky sweet goodness will make even the pickiest little ones forget that they’re consuming whole grains.
8. Peanut Butter Pita Pockets
If you don’t have allergies, peanut butter belongs as a staple. It has filling protein and healthy fats. The addition of some fruit means that your kids get essential vitamins and minerals, too.
9. Cheesy Quesadillas
Take your sandwich south-of-the-border with these melty treats. You can use a blend of cheeses alone or add meats, veggies or even crumbled tofu as additional fillings.
Dinnertime Favorites
Hopefully, you used this time to bring back the family dinner table. The following recipes should please the whole gang.
10. Cauliflower Mac & Cheese
If you’re trying to get your kids to eat more veggies, you will adore this sneaky recipe. The addition of cauliflower gets them plant-based goodness that they won’t complain about eating. It also helps you add bulk without upping your carb quotient.
11. Turkey Sloppy Joes
Sloppy joes are a classic favorite, but if you are cutting down on your red meat consumption for health or environmental reasons, this recipe fits the bill. You and the kids can get this into the slow cooker in the morning and enjoy the aroma all day before finally digging in.
12. Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Maybe you don’t want to head out to your favorite sandwich shop just yet, but you can treat your family to a taste of a classic with this meal. The heartiness sticks to your rib, making it the ideal fuel to replenish nutrients after a long hike at your nearby nature preserve. Make an extra heaping, as this reheats well for a late-night snack or impromptu lunch.
Delight Your Family with These Recipes This Weekend
If you’re looking for dishes that get the entire family into the kitchen, you can’t go wrong with the 12 recipes above. Whether you want a quick bite or a full meal, these will please folks of all ages.
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Jennifer Landis is the founder of Mindfulness Mama, a blog where she talks all things #momlife, marriage, mindfulness, and everything in between. A thirty-something mom of two, Jennifer spends her limited free time practicing yoga and pilates, sipping tea, and reading with her littles. You can find more from Jennifer on Twitter, @JenniferELandis.
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