4 Quick & Easy Meals Your Kids Will Love

Raising a family is a lot of work. You’ve got to instill good values, teach them manners, help them thrive in school and at home, put them in just the right amount of extracurricular activities and ensure that their physical and emotional needs are met. You’re constantly trying to achieve some sort of balance, whether it’s between keeping them safe and letting them explore the world, figuring out what sort of discipline works in your household, or simply finding time for yourself outside of parenthood. It’s wonderful, but exhausting. Oh, and you have to feed them constantly!

Some parents luck out with kids who eat well from day one, making dinnertime a breeze. Others know the daily battle that is mealtime, and the never-ending pressure to get something other than boxed macaroni into their stomachs. Healthy eating is important for your growing family, but don’t stress! For most kids, picky eating is just a phase, and this too shall pass. If you’re in the thick of mealtime battles now, why not try these simple, healthy meal combinations that both kids and adults will enjoy?

1: Homemade Chicken Strips

Our boneless, skinless chicken breasts can easily be turned into homemade chicken strips that your kids will love. Simply cut your chicken into strips (or nuggets, if you prefer). Dip each piece into a bowl of milk and then roll in panko crumbs or a lightly dust with flour (add a bit of salt and/or pepper as desired). Bake until cooked through and serve with their favourite cooked or raw veggies on the side. It’s a healthier, unprocessed take on a childhood classic.

2: Hamburgers with veggies on the side

Hamburgers are great because they can be customized to include what you like (and omit what you don’t). Adults can dress them up with carmelized onions, pickles, tomatoes, arugula, garlic aioli or whatever else suits their taste, and kids will be happy with ketchup. Cook them on the stove top or grill, and load one up with your favourite condiments and toppings. Serve your burgers with roasted potato wedges (the grown up version of fries) and a hearty, veggie-filled salad.

3. Pasta with meat sauce

Spaghetti is typically a hit with kids – so why not make some using our VG Meats ground beef? It’s quick and easy, and your whole family will enjoy it. Tip: sneak some pureed vegetables into the sauce for an extra nutritional punch! Carrots are hardly detectable, and shredded zucchini is easy to sneak in. Make a fresh salad to serve on the side and you’re all set.

4. Homemade Pizza

Our pepperoni chub is the perfect addition to any pizza. Make (or buy) some pizza dough, roll it out into personal pizzas, add sauce and cheese, and then let your family members choose their own toppings. Better yet, have each person make their own pizza – it will keep kids busy and ensure that everyone gets what they want. We love adding fresh tomato slices, garlic and basil to homemade pizza, and children will enjoy turning theirs into a smiley face or making their initial out of pepperoni. Have fun and enjoy!

What are your go-to meals for kids? Tell us in the comments!