7 Easy Christmas Dinner Sides Vegetables Kids Will Actually Eat

As a parent, I know the struggle of getting kids to eat their vegetables, especially during festive occasions like Christmas dinner. I often find myself looking for options that not only appeal to their taste buds but also add a nice touch to the holiday spread. There are some surprisingly simple sides that can make veggies enjoyable for kids. Let me share a few options that might just transform your holiday table…

Sale

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...

• Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
• Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
• Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

$59.99 −$19.00 $40.99

Buy on Amazon

Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey Glazed Carrots are a delightful side dish that adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your holiday dinner. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a hit with kids, as the natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by a luscious honey glaze. It’s a simple yet flavorful addition to your Christmas table that everyone will enjoy.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparing the Carrots: Begin by washing the carrots thoroughly under cold water. Peel them using a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin. Once peeled, slice them into even-sized rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. This will help them cook evenly.
2. Cooking the Carrots: In a medium-sized pot, fill it with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the sliced carrots and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are just tender but still maintain a bit of crunch. You can test them with a fork.
3. Draining the Carrots: Once the carrots are done, drain them in a colander and set them aside to cool slightly.
4. Making the Glaze: In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter and olive oil. Allow the butter to melt down fully. Then, add the honey, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing them to bubble lightly for about 1-2 minutes.
5. Coating the Carrots: Add the drained carrots back into the pot with the honey glaze. Gently toss the carrots in the glaze to coat them evenly, being careful not to break them.
6. Finishing Touches: If desired, sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme over the glazed carrots for an added layer of flavor. Mix gently.
7. Serving: Transfer the honey glazed carrots to a serving dish and serve warm. Enjoy this sweet and savory side at your Christmas dinner!

Sale

TrendPlain 16oz/470ml Glass Olive Oil Sprayer for Cooking – 2 in 1 Olive Oil Dispenser Bottle for...

• Lifetime Assurance: We stand behind the quality of our oil dispenser for kitchen. If you experience any...
• Dual Dispensing: This oil mister offers both spray and pour options for total control while cooking....
• Precision Spray Nozzle: The olive oil spray bottle features a nozzle that delivers a fine mist or steady...

$9.99 −$2.00 $7.99

Buy on Amazon

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and family-friendly side dish that combines tender broccoli florets with a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked together to create a deliciously hearty addition to any Christmas dinner. Kids will love the cheesy goodness, and it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables while ensuring the meal is festive and satisfying.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparing the Broccoli: Start by washing the broccoli florets under cold water. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. To increase tenderness, you may steam the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly soft, then set aside.
2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese (reserve 1/2 cup for topping), cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
3. Combining the Broccoli: Add the steamed broccoli to the mixture and gently fold it in until the broccoli is well coated in the cheese and sauce mixture.
4. Preparing the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Assembling the Casserole: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top. Then, sprinkle the bread crumbs over the cheese layer for added crunch.
6. Baking the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Finishing Touches: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color.
8. Serving: Serve the Cheesy Broccoli Casserole warm as a delightful side dish to complement your Christmas dinner. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavors that are sure to delight kids and adults alike!

Sale

Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...

• The Original Pro Chopper – TikTok’s favorite veggie slicer and one of the top-rated kitchen gadgets...
• Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades – Perfect for those who want to eat healthier but don’t...
• 5-Star Design for Everyday Cooking – Built for comfort and precision. The soft-grip TPU handle offers...

$49.99 −$20.00 $29.99

Buy on Amazon

Sweet Potato Mash

Sweet Potato Mash is a delicious and nutritious side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to your Christmas dinner. Kids will love its smooth texture and natural sweetness, making it perfect for pairing with savory main courses. This colorful dish not only satisfies young palates but also provides a healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparing the Sweet Potatoes: Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into small, even-sized cubes. This helps them cook more quickly and evenly.
2. Cooking the Sweet Potatoes: Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the sweet potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Draining the Potatoes: Once cooked, carefully drain the sweet potatoes in a colander to remove excess water. Allow them to sit for a minute or two to let the steam escape.
4. Mashing the Sweet Potatoes: Return the drained sweet potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash them until smooth.
5. Adding Ingredients: Add the butter, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mash is creamy.
6. Taste and Adjust: Give the sweet potato mash a taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a bit more brown sugar.
7. Optional Topping: If desired, transfer the sweet potato mash to a serving dish and top with mini marshmallows. You can place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the marshmallows, giving a delightful touch of sweetness.
8. Serving: Serve the sweet potato mash warm as a comforting side dish to complement your Christmas dinner.

CIRCLE JOY Gravity Electric Salt and Pepper Grinder Set Automatic Salt and Pepper Grinder Set with...

• 【Automatic Operation】The gravity salt and pepper grinder set electric uses advanced technology for...
• 【Adjustable Coarseness】This electric pepper grinder set can meet your grinding needs. Easily adjust...
• 【Upgraded Salt and Pepper Set】The upgraded automatic salt and pepper grinder set has a long lifespan...

$26.99

Buy on Amazon

Roasted Cauliflower Bites

Roasted Cauliflower Bites are a delightful and healthy side dish that kids will love! These crispy, golden bites are not only fun to eat but also pack a nutritional punch. The nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower combined with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese makes for an appealing side that complements any holiday main course.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparing the Cauliflower: Start by removing the leaves and the stem from the cauliflower head. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, guaranteeing they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
2. Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
3. Seasoning the Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Toss them well until all the florets are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Arranging on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. This allows them to roast properly and get crispy.
5. Roasting the Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. About halfway through, take them out and give them a good stir to validate even browning.
6. Adding Parmesan Cheese: In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower bites. Return them to the oven and continue roasting until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the cauliflower is golden brown.
7. Serving: Once roasted to perfection, remove the cauliflower bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a fun and tasty side dish that kids will enjoy!
8. Optional Garnish: For a little extra flair, you can garnish the roasted cauliflower bites with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

Sale

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System, 1500W, 4QT & 6-Cup TempWare Glass...

• ALL-IN-ONE SYSTEM: Includes the Ninja Crispi PowerPod, 4-qt and 6-cup CleanCrisp glass containers, and 2...
• CRISPI POWERPOD: The power of a full-sized air fryer now in the palm of your hand
• SMALL & LARGE BATCH CONTAINERS: 6-cup container cooks a personal sized meal in 7 mins while the 4 QT fits...

$179.99 −$20.04 $159.95

Buy on Amazon

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Garlic Butter Green Beans are a simple yet delicious side dish that kids will absolutely adore! This vibrant green vegetable is cooked to tenderness and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, making them irresistible and an excellent addition to any holiday dinner. Their bright color and flavor will appeal to even the pickiest of eaters.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparing the Green Beans: Rinse the fresh green beans under cold water to clean them. Trim off the ends by snapping them off or cutting them with a knife, making sure to remove any tough stems.
2. Blanching the Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and boil for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. This helps keep their vibrant color while also making them easier to digest.
3. Shocking the Beans: Prepare a bowl of ice water while the green beans are boiling. Once they are done, immediately transfer them to the ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them sit in the ice water for about 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4. Making the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.
5. Combining Green Beans and Garlic Butter: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the garlic butter. Season them with salt and black pepper, and toss to guarantee the beans are well coated with the delicious butter sauce.
6. Cooking the Beans: Sauté the green beans in the garlic butter for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are heated through and nicely infused with the garlic flavor.
7. Serving: Once fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, drizzle with lemon juice for a zesty finish, and toss once more. Serve the Garlic Butter Green Beans warm alongside your holiday main dish.
8. Optional Garnish: For a touch of extra flavor and color, consider sprinkling some toasted almonds or fresh parsley over the green beans just before serving.

Elite Gourmet EGC115B Easy Egg Cooker Electric 7-Egg Capacity, Soft, Medium, Hard-Boiled Egg Cooker...

• SEVEN EGG CAPACITY: Cook up to 7 eggs in soft, medium, or hard-boiled firmness, while saving time and...
• EASE OF USE: Fill pre-marked measuring cup with water to desired doneness & add to the cooking plate,...
• VERSATILITY: Whether pairing with avocado toast or preparing deviled eggs, the Elite Gourmet Easy Egg...

$23.72

Buy on Amazon

Colorful Vegetable Medley

Colorful Vegetable Medley is a delightful and visually appealing side dish that is packed with essential nutrients and flavors. It combines an array of vibrant vegetables, making it an attractive addition to your holiday spread. This dish is not only healthy but also very easy to prepare, guaranteeing that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these colorful veggies!

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparing the Vegetables: Wash all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Slice the carrots and zucchini into thin rounds, and dice the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Cut the broccoli into small florets for easy cooking.
2. Heating the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
3. Sautéing the Carrots: Add the sliced carrots to the skillet first, as they take longer to cook. Stir them in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften.
4. Adding the Remaining Vegetables: Next, toss in the diced bell peppers, sliced zucchini, and broccoli florets. Stir well to combine with the carrots and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. The vegetables should be tender yet still colorful and crisp.
5. Seasoning: Sprinkle the dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper over the cooked vegetables. Gently stir to make sure all the veggies are evenly coated with the seasonings. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for the flavors to meld.
6. Serving: Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the colorful vegetable medley to a serving dish. For an elegant touch, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving.
7. Enjoy: Serve the colorful vegetable medley warm as a delicious and healthy side dish that perfectly complements your Christmas dinner spread!

Sale

AWLKIM Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Waterproof Food Thermometer with Backlight for...

• Ultra-Fast & Accurate Digital Meat Thermometer - Our instant-read meat thermometer features a 1.7mm...
• Multi-Purpose Cooking Thermometer - Ideal for meats, liquids, candy, sourdough and even oil! Use this...
• Effortless Use, Day or Night-Simply unfold & read! Features a bright backlit LCD for crystal-clear...

$9.99 −$2.00 $7.99

Buy on Amazon

Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful and flavorful side dish that kids will love at your Christmas dinner. These bite-sized treats feature plump mushroom caps filled with a rich and creamy mixture of fresh spinach, cheese, and seasonings, making them a fun and nutritious addition to the holiday table.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee that it’s hot and ready for baking.
2. Prepare the Mushroom Caps: Gently clean the mushroom caps with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and set the caps aside for stuffing. Finely chop the stems for later use.
3. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Next, add the chopped spinach and the finely chopped mushroom stems. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the moisture has evaporated.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
5. Stuff the Mushrooms: Using a small spoon or your hands, carefully fill each mushroom cap with the creamy spinach and cheese mixture, mounding it slightly on top.
6. Add Breadcrumb Topping: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed mushrooms for added crunch. This step is optional but can add a delicious texture.
7. Bake the Mushrooms: Place the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm as a festive side dish for your Christmas dinner that kids (and adults) will thoroughly enjoy!
9. Enjoy: Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of your Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms, and watch them disappear from the table!