Getting picky eaters to enjoy vegetables can sometimes feel like an impossible task. However, with the right approach, you can transform even the most stubborn vegetable avoiders into veggie lovers. The key is to make vegetables taste delicious and familiar, using seasonings, cooking techniques, and combinations that enhance their natural flavors. In this collection, we’ve put together 10 simple veggie sides that are perfect for picky eaters. From crispy roasted veggies to creamy mashed alternatives, these recipes are guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into these easy and flavorful veggie side dishes!
1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic Parmesan roasted potatoes are a surefire way to get picky eaters to enjoy their veggies. The potatoes are seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese before being roasted to perfection. The savory garlic and cheesy coating make these potatoes irresistible, and they pair wonderfully with nearly any main dish. Get the recipe: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
2. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries, but they’re just as delicious. By baking them in the oven with a little olive oil and seasoning, you can create a crispy exterior and a soft interior that both kids and adults will love. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or paprika to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor. Get the recipe: Sweet Potato Fries
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Brussels sprouts often get a bad reputation, but roasting them with a balsamic glaze can turn them into a crowd-pleasing side dish. The roasting process caramelizes the sprouts, bringing out their natural sweetness, while the balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish. The result is a crispy, tender veggie dish that’s surprisingly addictive. Get the recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
4. Honey Butter Roasted Carrots
Sweet and buttery, these carrot sticks are simple yet satisfying. Carrots are steamed or roasted until tender and then drizzled with a honey butter sauce for a sweet-savory finish. The honey adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the carrots, making them a hit with picky eaters. Get the recipe: Honey Butter Roasted Carrots
5. Creamy Spinach with Garlic
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that even picky eaters can enjoy. This version uses fresh spinach, garlic, and a creamy base made from cream cheese and Parmesan. The creamy texture makes the spinach mild and delicious, and the garlic adds a savory punch that brings everything together. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while keeping it creamy and indulgent. Get the recipe: Creamy Spinach with Garlic
6. Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles
For a light and fun twist on traditional pasta, zucchini noodles (or “zoodles”) are a great option. Zucchini is spiralized into noodle shapes and then sautéed with garlic and Parmesan for a flavorful, low-carb side dish. The mild flavor of zucchini pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy topping, making this dish a hit even with picky eaters who aren’t fond of vegetables. Get the recipe: Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles
7. Baked Corn on the Cob With Herb Butter
Sometimes simplicity is key. Corn on the cob, slathered with butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, is a delightful side dish that both kids and adults will enjoy. The natural sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the creamy butter and fresh herbs, making this a foolproof veggie side that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. Get the recipe:Baked Corn on the Cob With Herb Butter
8. Mashed Cauliflower
For a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, try mashed cauliflower. It has a similar creamy texture but is lower in calories and carbs. The cauliflower is steamed and then mashed with butter, cream, and a touch of garlic, resulting in a creamy, rich side dish that even picky eaters will love. It’s a great way to add more vegetables to the meal without sacrificing flavor or texture. Get the recipe: Mashed Cauliflower
9. Roasted Cinnamon Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, and when combined with cinnamon and brown sugar, they become a delicious, dessert-like side dish. The roasting process caramelizes the sweet potatoes, bringing out their natural sweetness, while the cinnamon and brown sugar add warmth and depth of flavor. These roasted sweet potatoes are perfect for kids who prefer sweeter flavors. Get the recipe: Roasted Cinnamon Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes
10. Avocado and Tomato Salad
For a fresh, light side dish, try an avocado and tomato salad. This simple dish combines creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the fresh, slightly tangy tomatoes, creating a refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer meals. It’s an easy way to serve up healthy fats and vitamins in a tasty, approachable form. Get the recipe: Avocado and Tomato Salad
These 10 simple veggie sides are the perfect solution for picky eaters. Whether you’re roasting, mashing, or sautéing, these vegetables are prepared in a way that enhances their natural flavors and makes them more appealing to those who might not be fond of vegetables. From crispy roasted potatoes to creamy mashed cauliflower, these dishes are easy to make and will quickly become favorites in your household. Add these simple veggie sides to your next meal, and watch as your picky eaters enjoy their vegetables like never before!
