Master List Of Vegetarian Meals For Kids

Vegetarian Meals for Kids

It’s so darn easy to get into a food rut, especially when feeding kids who usually prefer to eat their favorites over and over (and over!). I’m always looking for meatless meal ideas to help stretch my grocery budget and help me come up with vegetarian meals that everyone at my table will enjoy. So this list, which is broken up by type of recipe—is here to help you (and me!).

Vegetarian Recipes for Families

Each of the recipes here is a great one to share with your entire family. You can of course cook them just for the kids, but they are appropriate for the adults at the table too. Each of these is straight forward and uses ingredients you can (usually) find at mainstream grocery stories. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox. (I lived in a small town and shopped at my local stores, so I used what was available there as my guide!) TIP: Learn more about kids protein needs here. (They may be lower than you realize.)

Vegetarian Protein Options

Here’s a quick look at some good sources of meatless plant-based protein:

Almond butterBeansCheeseCottage cheeseHemp seeds (blended into smoothies)HummusKefirEdamame beansEggsLentilsMilk (cow’s, plant milk, or soy milk)Peanut butterPasta (bean, lentil, and quinoa, along with regular wheat pastas)PeasQuinoaSplit peasSunflower seed butterTempehTofuYogurt, drinkableYogurt

TIP: Find a full list of vegetarian (and pescatarian) protein options here.

Bean Recipes for Kids

Affordable and packed with nutrition, beans and legumes are also versatile and filling. Here are some of my go-to ways to cook them for kids. TIP: Find even more healthy bean recipes here.

Vegetarian Soups for Kids

Beans and legumes add protein and vegan creaminess to soup—and all of these options are super kid friendly. Kiddo not into soup? Try serving a small amount with crackers or bread for dipping.

Tofu and Tempeh Recipes

I’ve always been surprised at how much my kids like tofu—and also delighted since it’s such an inexpensive protein option. It also takes on flavors of sauces really well, and can be served up crispy in nuggets too.

Easy Egg Recipes

Eggs are one of the more affordable protein sources, in addition to being quick to cook. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use them.

Vegetarian Pasta and Grains

Pasta has a solid dose of protein (even regular pasta does!), as do grains—and both are a great base for vegetarian family meals. These are some of my favorites to share with the kids.

Pescatarian Meals with Fish

Pick up some salmon, tilapia, shrimp, or other favorite fish or shellfish and try one of these easy fish recipes for kids. While not technically vegetarian, they can be yummy meals to try if your family does eat or have access to fish.

Vegetarian Lunch Ideas for Kids

Pack or serve up plant-based goodness for lunch with these yummy recipes for lunch. Most are even great to make ahead and reheat and plate as needed!

Vegetarian Nugget and Tot Recipes

Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, these homemade nuggets are so good! If you have a favorite vegetarian recipe for your family, please share it below in the comments—I’d love to know!