30+ Vegan Recipes for Kids (2024)

Whether you're cooking for kids who are new to plant-based eating or you're just looking to update your current rotation of meals, this list of delicious Vegan Recipes for Kids will have you covered.

When it comes to what we put on the table, kids can be our toughest critics. That's why it's important for parents and caretakers to experiment with different recipes and keep trying to introduce veggies. But alternating with simple and familiar dishes can also help ease the stress of mealtime. Thankfully, there of plenty of Vegan Kids Recipes that reimagine old classics, and still more that will be new and exciting.

This list of Vegan Kids Meals includes recipes that are:

• Quick & Easy for busy families
• Meatless/Vegetarian
• Dairy-Free
• Healthy & Full of Veggies
• Low Sugar or Sugar-Free
• Low Oil or Oil-Free
• Lunchbox-Friendly
• Picky-Eater-Friendly
• Fun & Delicious!

How to Introduce Plant-Based or Vegan Meals to Kids

If you've decided that you want to eat more (or all) vegan meals, it might come as a bit of a shock to your family, but that doesn't mean you should give up or cook two meals every night.

Have a discussion with the people you cook for and explain--in age-appropriate terms--why you want to change your diet. The biggest thing that kids want is often the thing parents are most hesitant to give--control over their lives! So look at these recipes together and let your kids help plan out the weekly menu. They'll be much more willing to try something new if they chose it!

Whenever I introduce a new dish, I try to make sure there is something familiar on the table as well. A side dish, for instance, that everyone likes. Another important piece of advice for anyone trying a new way of eating: be sure to have some backup food on hand in case the meal is a massive fail (even if it's just bread and peanut butter). Hangry kids are no joke. When in doubt feed them something, even if it's not the incredible meal you had envisioned! Then try again tomorrow.

How to Get Picky Eaters to Try New Foods

Most people have food preferences, and kids are no different. But because kids can have especially sensitive palates and texture sensitivities, it can be extra challenging to get them to try new foods.

In my experience, trying to force kids to "like" foods always backfires. So I make the food, I offer the food, and I try very hard not to get offended if the food is rejected. Training our tastes can take time and for some people, it might take years. But don't give up hope!

As an anecdote: when I was a child, I was incredibly picky and VERY hesitant to try new foods. I frequently ate applesauce and white bread for dinner. Sometimes I wonder how I survived into adulthood. But I did, and in my 20s I started trying new foods and expanding my range, and now I'm proud to say I have done a complete 180. I'll happily try anything plant-based, no matter how strange.

My point is, I never wanted to be a picky eater. But there was no amount of compulsion that could have changed me. My tastes had to develop when the time was right. So if you fear your picky eaters will never expand their palate, just keep showing them the way and eventually, they'll follow your lead.

Vegan Recipes for Kids

On this list, I've included plant-based breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner ideas. I purposely left out dessert, because, let's face it, dessert isn't exactly a hard sell for most kids. Something tells me that's not the area where most of us are struggling. So I wanted to focus this list on the four places where we actually need some inspiration.

I included foods that are familiar and dishes that might be a reach. A few healthy, homemade, vegan versions of classic kids fare and a few things maybe even you haven't tried yet. My gauge for everything on this list was simple: would I want to make this dish for my own kids and is there a chance they'd go for it. I also included a few of my own recipes that I know my kids love! Let's get started.

Vegan Breakfast Recipes for Kids

Breakfast is one of those meals that can be as simple or challenging as you want to make it. Moreover, what we serve kids for breakfast is probably going to look different on a busy weekday than it will on a lazy weekend. If you want to get really basic (as I usually am), breakfast can any of the following:

• low-sugar cereal with fruit and plant milk
• toast with almond butter and apricot jam
• toast with smashed avocado and vegan parmesan
• plant-based yogurt with homemade muesli

But if you want to up your game a bit, here are some other great vegan breakfast recipes for kids. I've also included a 7-day Breakfast meal plan to show you how you can create a week's worth of breakfasts for a family of 4 with just 1 hour of prep on the weekend.

Vegan Breakfast Tacos by VNutrition

Kids love tacos--why not serve them for breakfast, too? TheseVegan Breakfast Tacosare a savory take on breakfast with a Mexican-inspired twist. They’re easy to make, gluten-free, and best of all – delicious!

Baked Turmeric Oatmeal Banana Donuts by Whole Food Bellies

These Baked Turmeric and Oatmeal Banana Donuts will fill up your kids' hungry bellies and leave them feeling ready to take on the day. They make a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or Sunday morning treat.

Vegan Zucchini Muffins by No Sweat Vegan

These vegan zucchini muffins are soft, sweet, and full of healthy ingredients. With no oil or refined sugar in the batter, you can feel good about serving them to your family. Make a big batch and freeze for a quick breakfast any day of the week.

Vegan Granola with Cherry and Almonds by Vegan Huggs

You'll never buy store-bought again after you try this homemade Vegan Granola Recipe. It's lightly sweetened and the crunchy clusters are loaded with oats, nuts, dried fruit, and warm cinnamon. Plus, it's so easy to make -- just combine the 8 ingredients together and bake into golden perfection!

Healthy Peanut Butter Breakfast Bars by Joy Food Sunshine

This easy breakfast bars recipe is made in one bowl in 30 minutes, and is loaded with fiber, protein & omega-3s to keep your kids full all morning long! Make ahead for grab-and-go breakfasts all week long.

Vegan Kid's Lunch

I've always struggled with lunch! I'm either packing it ahead or rushing to get something hot on the plate in as little time as possible. I usually gravitate toward lunches that are super simple or else things that can be prepped ahead. (And let's not forget my favorite: leftovers)

Here are some basic but delicious lunches that my kids love and that pack well in a lunchbox:

• Peanut butter/sun butter and Chia Jam Sandwich
• Hummus and Cucumber Sandwich
• Black bean burritos
• last night's leftover pasta!

But if your kids are getting bored with the basics or need to meet specific dietary rules for school, check out these easy options.

Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Quesadillas by Stacey Homemaker

Looking for an easy to make, kid-friendly, inexpensive, high-protein vegan meal? These delicious vegan quesadillas can be filled with any flavor hummus or veggies you like! Perfect for a quick lunch.

Vegan Pesto Pasta Salad with Roasted Veggies by No Sweat Vegan

Fun fusilli pasta, creamy vegan pesto, earthy chickpeas, and bright roasted vegetables, combine for a quick, easy, and colorful vegan pesto pasta salad. This recipe is oil-free but full of flavor. Make ahead for easy, kid-friendly packed lunches throughout the week.

Instant Pot Vegan Tomato Soup by Plant-Based Instant Pot

What's more comforting than a classic bowl of tomato soup? Pair with a vegan grilled cheese for a delicious meal that kids and adults can enjoy together. Pack in a thermos for a warm school lunch.

Silky Vegan Mac and Cheese by HappyKitchen.Rocks

This Vegan Mac and Cheese is a delicious vegan take on an ultimate comfort food classic. Packed with veggies and plant-based protein, this easy 30-minute vegan mac ’n’ cheese recipe will become your family favorite!

Vegan Pizzas with Pesto by Rainbow Nourishments

Your kids will love these Vegan Pita Pizza topped with lots of vegetables, sweet caramelized onions, and a pesto even more vegetables. Quick, easy, and gluten-free!

Sweet Potato Tots by Vegan Dollhouse

You just need 5 ingredients for these cute bear-shaped tots! The outside is crispy while the inside is soft and fluffy. They're a healthy, gluten-free side for any age. These teddy tots can be prepared in advance, frozen, and cooked in the air fryer right before eating.

Kid-Friendly Vegan Snacks

When kids get home from a busy day at school, they're hungry! And while they might want to reach for chips or candy, you probably prefer they go for healthier choices.

Here are a few basic vegan snacks you can grab in a rush:

• pretzels and raisins
• rice cakes with jam and nut butter
• fresh fruit and a handful of cashews
• veggies and hummus or bean dip

Or take a little time before the week starts to prep these super fun vegan snacks for the week. You can find even more Vegan Kids Snack Ideas here and sign up for the free printable here.

Pumpkin Energy Bites by Cheerful Choices

Energy bites are the perfect go-to snack! Get the kids involved and let them choose their favorite "add-ins." Healthy, fun, and seasonal, this vegan snack is sure to please.

Rainbow Veggie Kebabs by Two Healthy Kitchens

A fun snack for kids that'll really get 'em eating more veggies! Pair with your fave vegan dip for a super-nutritious rainbow at snack time!

Slow Cooker Applesauce by Delightful Adventures

Once you get a taste of homemade slow cooker applesauce and see how easy it is to make, you won’t want to buy store-bought applesauce ever again! This makes a perfect, kid-friendly afternoon snack.

Easy, Oil-Free Baked Kale Chips by Nutriplanet

Greens can be a tough sell for kids, but turn them into chips and your job just got a lot easier! When the littles are craving something crispy, these are the perfect healthy alternative to potato chips.

Homemade, Gluten-free Vegan Goldfish by Strength and Sunshine

Nothing says childhood more than Goldfish crackers! Now you can make your own Homemade Gluten-Free & Vegan Goldfish that are top 8 allergy-free, grain-free, sugar-free, and secretly protein-packed! A healthy snack recipe parents and kids will love!

Kid-Friendly Vegan Dinners

If dinner is supposed to be a relaxing and enjoyable time to reconnect with your family, then why does it so often turn into a battleground? The good news is it doesn't have to!

Here a few super simple dinner ideas that my family alway loves:

• Spaghetti with Red Sauce--who doesn't love this simple classic! If you want to avoid added sugars and oil, you can even make your own quick marinara sauce with a few simple pantry ingredients.
• Burrito Bowls-- One thing I love about this meal is that everyone gets to make their own bowl. Significantly fewer fights occur. Everyone is happy.
• Potato Soup-- This was my favorite as a kid, and veganizing it is incredibly simple. With just potatoes, veggies, broth, and a little seasoning, you can whip up a quick batch of this kid-friendly meal--and for those with textural sensitivities, it can easily be blended smooth.
• Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese--This twist on the classic is perfect for lunch or dinner. Pair with peas or air fryer broccoli for the win!

Want to try something new? Check out these healthy, kid-friendly vegan dinner ideas.

Black Bean Burgers with Sweet Potato by The Oregon Dietician

These vegan black bean burgers are gluten-free, dairy-free, and--best of all--not mushy at all! They’re also freezer friendly and work great for the grill! From toddlers to teens, these burgers will be a hit with the whole family.

Movie-Inspired Ratatouille by Confessions of a Grocery Addict

This veggie-packed stunner of a dish requires a little patience, but your kids will be thrilled with this film-inspired favorite! Just swap a vegan cheese (or omit altogether) for the garnish.

Chick-fil-A Style Tofu Nuggets with "Honey" Mustard Dipping Sauce by No Sweat Vegan

If you’ve been searching for an easy and delicious vegan Chick-fil-A style nugget recipe, then you’re in luck. These nuggets combine agave sweetness and briny pickle juice for a unique yet familiar flavor. Plus everything is oil-free! Kids will love dipping in a vegan honey mustard sauce.

Vegetable Pasta Sauce (+ Basics for Hiding Veggies in Sauces) by Plant-Based Jess

This tasty vegetable pasta sauce is so easy to make and packed with tons of healthy veggies. Blended to a smooth texture, it's a perfect way to get the little ones to eat more vegetables.

Classic Tofu "Chicken" Noodle Soup by Plentiful Eating

A vegan & gluten-free version of the ultimate comfort food: chicken noodle soup! It's hearty, savory, super comforting, and tastes just like the real deal.

Homemade Spaghetti O's by Strength and Sunshine

Kick the can and make this healthy recipe for the kids instead! Homemade Spaghetti O’s that are allergy-free, gluten-free, and vegan! A super easy lunch or dinner that’s kid-friendly and mom-approved!

Beetroot Falafel by Greedy Gourmet

If you can't convince your kids to try beets, why not try transforming them into these vibrant Beetroot Falafel? They're sweet, vibrant, and delicious. Serve with a dip or in a wrap.

Vegan Zucchini Corn Fritters by Happy Kitchen.Rocks

These amazing vegan zucchini corn fritters are crispy and delicious, they’re perfect as a dinner side or serve cold as the star of a bento box.

So there you have it! Vegan Recipes and Meals that are perfect for kids (or kids at heart!). Let me know in the comments if you try any of these recipes. I'd love to hear what you and your kids think!

Vegan Kid's Breakfast Meal Prep

Save yourself a little time in the mornings by prepping a week's worth of breakfast on the weekend!

📖 Recipe