Getting your little ones involved in the kitchen can be a wonderful way to bond, learn, and create memories. And what better way to do so than by cooking together? Not only will you be teaching them valuable skills like measuring, mixing, and following instructions, but you’ll also be introducing them to new flavors and cuisines. Plus, who doesn’t love making (and devouring!) their own treats?
In this article, we’ll share 18 fun and easy recipes that are perfect for cooking with kids. From sweet treats like banana pancakes and strawberry yogurt popsicles to savory dishes like mini pizza bagels and cheesy quesadillas, there’s something on this list for every little chef. So grab a stool, put on your aprons, and get ready to have some fun in the kitchen!
Rainbow Fruit Kabobs
Create a colorful and healthy snack with these vibrant fruit kabobs. Perfect for parties or a quick pick-me-up, this recipe is easy to make and fun to eat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and quartered
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup kiwi slices
– 1 cup orange slices
– 1/2 cup grapes, halved
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thread a piece of each fruit onto a skewer in an alternating pattern.
3. Repeat step 2 until all fruit is used up, leaving a small space at the top of the kabob.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Mini Pizza Bagels
Get ready for a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for snacking or as an appetizer! Mini pizza bagels are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini bagels (8-10 count)
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the mini bagels in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on each bagel half.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Add your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Say goodbye to store-bought nuggets and hello to homemade goodness! This recipe is a game-changer for those looking for a healthier alternative that still satisfies the kid (and adult!) in you.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together egg, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and dip each piece into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the nuggets until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Place the cooked nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes to crisp up.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-22 minutes
Cheesy Quesadillas
Transform plain tortillas into a mouthwatering treat by filling them with melted cheese and cooking to perfection. This classic recipe is quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, place one tortilla and sprinkle half the cheese on half the tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the cheese.
4. Brush the skillet with oil or cooking spray and add the quesadilla.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining tortillas and cheese.
8. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy banana pancakes, packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and a hint of warm spices. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Optional: chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, egg, milk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Veggie Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner option. With its colorful mix of vegetables, pasta, and tangy dressing, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup bell pepper strips
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Sandwiches with Peanut Butter
A classic combination of crunchy apples, creamy peanut butter, and soft bread, these sandwiches are the perfect snack or lunchtime treat for kids and adults alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2-3 apples, sliced
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– Optional: honey, cinnamon, or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
2. Spread 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of peanut butter onto each slice.
3. Arrange 2-3 apple slices on top of the peanut butter.
4. Optional: add a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or other toppings as desired.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing another bread slice on top (peanut butter side up).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These sandwiches are best served fresh.
DIY Trail Mix
Get ready to fuel your next adventure with this delicious DIY trail mix recipe! This sweet and salty blend is packed with nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a hint of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and rolled oats.
2. Add the dried cranberries, dark chocolate chips, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds to the bowl.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the mixture.
4. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
These chewy and delicious cookies are a staple in many households. With just the right amount of sweetness and crunch from the chocolate chips, you’ll be hooked after one bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Strawberry Yogurt Popsicles
Beat the heat with these refreshing popsicles made with ripe strawberries and creamy yogurt!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, pureed
– 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice pop molds (6-8 counts)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the strawberry puree and honey until well combined.
2. Add the yogurt and vanilla extract to the bowl; whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
4. Insert popsicle sticks or handles and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Once frozen, remove from molds and enjoy!
Cooking Time: At least 4 hours or overnight
Mini Tacos with Ground Turkey
Add a flavorful twist to traditional tacos with these bite-sized mini tacos filled with juicy ground turkey. Perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Your favorite taco toppings (e.g. diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble mini tacos by spooning turkey mixture onto a warmed tortilla, topping with shredded cheese (if using) and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional potato fries. This recipe yields crispy, flavorful results with minimal mess and no deep-frying required.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry the sweet potatoes.
3. Cut the sweet potatoes into fry shapes (long and thin).
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the sweet potato fries in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the fries and sprinkle with salt.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Roll-Ups
Elevate your snack game with these tasty roll-ups filled with peanut butter and jelly goodness!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rolled oats (12 oz)
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons grape or strawberry jam
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter onto a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Place 1-2 tablespoons of jelly on top of the peanut butter.
4. Add about 1/4 cup of the oat mixture on top of the jelly.
5. Roll up the filling tightly, applying gentle pressure to compress the ingredients.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Store roll-ups in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are ready to devour straight away.
Homemade Granola Bars
Make your own healthy and delicious granola bars at home with this simple recipe. These chewy bars are perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: dried fruits (cranberries, raisins), chocolate chips, or coconut flakes for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, honey, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rainbow Veggie Wraps
Add a pop of color and flavor to your mealtime with these vibrant Rainbow Veggie Wraps! Made with a variety of colorful vegetables, creamy hummus, and crispy whole wheat wraps, this recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced avocado
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 whole wheat wraps (8-10 inches)
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spread about 2 tablespoons of hummus on each wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Arrange the shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, sliced avocado, and chopped cucumber in a colorful pattern along the center of the wrap.
3. Top with cooked brown rice and garnish with fresh herbs.
4. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of creamy cheese and nutritious broccoli, making them a great option for a quick snack or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these tasty morsels in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together broccoli, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
3. Drop the mixture by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Muffin Tin Quiches
These individual quiches are a delightful way to serve breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With a flaky crust and creamy filling, they’re sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and cut into squares about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
3. Press each square into a mini muffin tin, trimming excess crust as needed.
4. Fill each cup with mixed vegetables, cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Pour about 1 tablespoon of the mixture over each quiche.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and centers are set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
Perfect for a quick snack or light meal, these colorful kabobs combine the sweetness of fresh fruit with the creaminess of cheese. A great way to enjoy a healthy treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fresh fruit (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi)
– 8 oz cubed cheese (Mozzarella, Cheddar, or Feta)
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces and thread onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Place a cube of cheese at the end of each kabob.
4. If desired, drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the fruit is tender.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Spending quality time with your kids in the kitchen can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are 18 recipes that are perfect for cooking with kids, promoting family bonding and creating memories. From sweet treats like banana pancakes and chocolate chip cookies to savory dishes like mini tacos and veggie pasta salad, there’s something for everyone. Try making rainbow fruit kabobs, cheesy quesadillas, or homemade chicken nuggets – the possibilities are endless! These recipes are easy to follow and require minimal supervision, making them perfect for kids of all ages. Get cooking and make some unforgettable memories with your little ones!
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