25 recipes that’ll reignite your love for veggies

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If you’ve fallen out of love with veggies, it’s time for a fresh start. These recipes are here to remind you that veggies can do so much more than just sit on the side of your plate — they can be the star of the meal. Think of this as a gentle nudge, because veggies aren’t just for salads, and you might be surprised how much you’ll want to go back for seconds.

Baked tomatoes with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese garnished with parsley.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole pulls together bell peppers, rice, and just enough ground meat to make a filling meal that’s not too heavy. It’s ready in 45 minutes, making it a great choice for those nights when you need dinner fast but filling. The best part? You’re packing in plenty of veggies without it feeling like a chore. This casserole is an easy way to get everyone to eat more vegetables, and it’s perfect for reheating leftovers when you’re short on time. A great way to bring veggies back to the table.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Broccoli Fritters

A stack of broccoli fritters on a plate.
Broccoli Fritters. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Fritters are a quick way to turn broccoli into something more exciting. They come together in 35 minutes with just a few ingredients like eggs and Parmesan, giving you a crispy outside with a soft, flavorful inside. These fritters are perfect for when you want a light meal or a snack that’s filling and nutritious. A great way to sneak more greens into your day, too. If you’ve been struggling to find ways to enjoy broccoli, this recipe will make it easy to appreciate your veggies again.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Fritters

Quinoa Chickpea Salad

A bowl filled with a quinoa salad that includes chickpeas, chopped red bell peppers, cucumbers, red onions, and fresh herbs, presented on a light-colored surface.
Quinoa Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Quinoa Chickpea Salad brings together quinoa, chickpeas, bell peppers, and cucumbers with a simple lemon-garlic dressing. It’s quick to put together, perfect for lunch or as a side for dinner. This salad is packed with veggies but stays light and refreshing, making it easy to get more greens on your plate. If you’re looking for something that feels fresh and nutritious without much work, this is a great choice. The ingredients are straightforward, making a wholesome and simple meal.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Chickpea Salad

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Three loaded zucchini boats on a plate.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Zucchini Boats make it easy to enjoy zucchini in a new way. Filled with bacon, cheese, and sour cream, these boats bake up in under an hour, which makes them great for weeknights. The zucchini keeps things light, while the bacon and cheese give it that extra flavor you’re looking for. These boats are a great option for a quick meal that’s hearty and full of veggies. It’s a helpful way to bring more greens to the table without making it feel like you’re missing out on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Casserole brings steamed broccoli together with cheese and crackers, all baked into a dish that’s ready in just 50 minutes. It’s an easy way to turn broccoli into a comforting meal or side dish. This casserole is simple to prepare, and it’s a great way to get more vegetables into your day, especially if you’re not the biggest fan of greens. If you need a straightforward dish that’s both wholesome and easy to make, this casserole is a perfect way to enjoy broccoli again.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Cucumber Tomato Bites

Sliced cucumbers topped with dollops of herb cream cheese, cherry tomato halves, and dill sprigs arranged on a beige surface.
Cucumber Tomato Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cucumber Tomato Bites are a quick, light snack made with crunchy cucumber slices, topped with herbed cream cheese, and finished with cherry tomato halves and fresh dill. They’re ready in 20 minutes and are great for when you want something fresh but don’t have a lot of time. These bites are simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy days or as a healthy snack during the week. They store well too, so you can make them ahead and grab one when you need a quick bite. An easy way to enjoy more veggies throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a light and fresh way to enjoy veggies. Cucumbers are hollowed out and filled with a mix of chicken, bacon, cheese, and homemade ranch seasoning, giving you a flavorful and quick meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, these boats are great for lunch or as a snack when you need something fast. They’re a simple way to add more greens to your meals without sacrificing flavor. If you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy veggies, this recipe makes it effortless.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Baked tomatoes with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese garnished with parsley.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese take just 25 minutes and are a simple way to enjoy a veggie-based dish that feels comforting. Roma tomatoes are layered with Parmesan and mozzarella and then baked until golden and bubbly. This dish is great when you need something easy that still feels like a treat. It’s perfect as a light dinner or a side, and you’ll love how the cheese melts into the tomatoes. This recipe is a great reminder that plant-based dishes can still be comforting and hearty for those trying to add more veggies to their meals.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup comes together in about an hour and is full of flavor without being complicated. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs well with the peppers, and cumin and paprika add just enough warmth to make it comforting. It’s perfect for nights when you want something light but filling. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this soup is a great way to bring more veggies into your diet without feeling like you’re missing anything. Plus, it’s hearty enough to stand on its own that you won’t need anything else.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Baked Sliced Zucchini

Baked sliced zucchini with parmesan on a white plate.
Baked Sliced Zucchini. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Sliced Zucchini is a quick and easy side dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Fresh zucchini slices are topped with Parmesan and herbs and then baked until crispy. It’s great for anyone looking to add more veggies to their meals without spending too much time in the kitchen. The simple ingredients and quick cooking time make this recipe a go-to for busy nights. Whether you’re serving it with dinner or enjoying it as a snack, this dish is a great way to get your greens in.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sliced Zucchini

Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Bites

A person holding a cucumber with shrimp and guacamole.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Bites are a refreshing snack or appetizer ready in 25 minutes. Cucumber slices are topped with shrimp and guacamole, making it a light and easy way to enjoy veggies. This recipe is great when you want something simple but still a bit special. With minimal prep required, these bites are perfect for anyone trying to eat more veggies without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. They’re a nice reminder that eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard or complicated.
Get the Recipe: Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Bites

Bell Pepper Sandwich

Bell pepper sandwich cut in half on a plate.
Bell Pepper Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Bell Pepper Sandwich is a fun way to switch up your lunch routine. Instead of bread, crisp bell peppers hold turkey, bacon, cream cheese, and Provolone together. With mashed avocado and Everything Bagel Seasoning, this sandwich is perfect for those trying to eat more veggies without giving up flavor. This simple, fresh approach to a sandwich shows how easy it can be to add more greens to your day without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Bowl of creamy dill cucumber onion salad in a bowl with spoons.
Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad is a refreshing side that takes 30 minutes to make. With crisp cucumbers, red onions, and a creamy dill dressing, it’s a light and easy way to enjoy veggies with zero cooking. This salad is great for hot days when you want something cool and simple. It’s also perfect for anyone trying to add more veggies to their meals in a way that feels effortless. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s light, fresh, and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

In FDL library.
Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta brings together shaved asparagus and crispy bacon in a creamy sauce, all ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a filling yet balanced dish that’s great for weeknights when you want something comforting but not too heavy. The asparagus adds a fresh bite that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce and bacon. This recipe is perfect for those trying to add more veggies to their meals without sacrificing flavor. It’s a simple way to enjoy a veggie-focused and hearty dish.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

Zucchini Bites

A zucchini bite being dipped into a dipping sauce.
Zucchini Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Zucchini Bites are a quick way to get more veggies into your day. These bites mix shredded zucchini with Parmesan, cheddar, and Italian seasoning and bake in just 30 minutes. They’re perfect when you need a snack that’s easy to prepare but still packed with flavor. You’ll love how crispy they get without much effort. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just enjoying a quiet snack at home, they’re a great way to enjoy veggies without overthinking them. You can even make a larger batch to have on hand for later.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bites

Cauliflower Potato Salad

Cauliflower potato salad garnished with green onions in a bowl with a fork.
Cauliflower Potato Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cauliflower Potato Salad is a practical way to add more veggies to your meals. By swapping out potatoes for cauliflower, you get a lighter dish that still feels familiar. The salad comes together with bacon, cheddar, and a bit of hot sauce. It’s perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or when you want to change your sides. Cauliflower gives the salad a delicious texture, making it a solid replacement for potatoes. This recipe helps you get more veggies onto the table in a way that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Potato Salad

Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats

Spicy tuna cucumber boats on a plate.
Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats are a quick, light option that makes adding veggies to your meals easy. Hollowed-out cucumbers are filled with a simple tuna mixture and topped with Everything Bagel Seasoning and hot sauce. Ready in just 10 minutes, these boats serve a fresh crunch that’s perfect for busy days. Whether you’re grabbing a fast lunch or prepping a snack for later, these cucumber boats give you a convenient way to get more greens without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for a quick, wholesome meal. Toss sausage, zucchini, broccoli, and mini peppers on a sheet pan, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have dinner ready in 30 minutes. It’s great for those nights when you need something hearty and with more veggies. The simplicity of this meal makes it easy to prepare and clean up, which is a real help on busy weeknights. Plus, you can adjust the veggies based on what you have, making it flexible for any situation.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a straightforward dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes. It’s great when you want something quick that still feels filling. The cabbage softens while the bacon adds a nice bit of crunch. It’s the kind of recipe that shows how simple it can be to enjoy veggies. Perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short, but you still want to put something homemade on the table. If you’re looking for an easy way to get more greens into your meals, this recipe is a helpful go-to.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Broccoli With Sun-Dried Tomatoes

A pan of creamy broccoli with sun-dried tomatoes with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Broccoli With Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a helpful side dish when you need something quick that’s still flavorful. Steamed broccoli is mixed with a creamy sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all done in about 30 minutes. It’s a great way to make broccoli more appetizing without too much extra work. This recipe pairs well with many main dishes, making it a versatile option for busy nights. The sun-dried tomatoes add a bit of brightness, making it easy to include more veggies in your meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli With Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon is a simple way to enjoy a veggie-packed meal. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs nicely with the roasted cauliflower, and a bit of bacon adds crunch. This recipe is easy to throw together — just toss everything in the oven and let it roast. It’s great when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. The soft squash, hearty cauliflower, and crispy bacon make for a hearty meal that’s light on effort but still full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Golden Baked Jicama Fries

In FDL library.
Golden Baked Jicama Fries. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Golden Baked Jicama Fries are a great way to switch up your snack routine without too much work. Lightly seasoned with paprika, turmeric, and garlic, they come out of the oven crispy and flavorful. Jicama’s mild sweetness pairs perfectly with the spices, creating a lighter, healthier option to traditional fries. This recipe is simple — just slice, season, and bake — and helps you get more veggies into your day without feeling like you’re missing out. If you’re craving something crunchy, these fries keep things balanced and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

A bowl of cilantro lime cauliflower rice.
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is a quick, light side dish that’s perfect for adding more veggies to your meals. With cauliflower pulsed into rice-sized pieces and sautéed with onion, garlic, and jalapeño, it’s fresh and flavorful without being too complicated. Finished with lime juice and cilantro, it’s ready in 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy days. If you’re looking for a simple way to cut down on heavier sides and incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this dish does the job.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower risotto in a pan.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms gives you the rich, comforting feel of risotto but with a lighter spin. This dish is a great way to enjoy a creamy, filling meal while keeping things simple by using cauliflower rice instead of the usual heavy grains. The mushrooms bring a deep flavor, and the Parmesan adds just enough creaminess to make it feel special. Ready in 30 minutes, this recipe is great for anyone who wants to add more vegetables to their meals without giving up on comforting, hearty food.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage is a quick, hearty dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. The cabbage gets tender while the chicken sausage adds flavor, and a touch of apple cider vinegar gives it a little kick. This recipe makes it easy if you’re trying to work more vegetables into your meals without overcomplicating things. Simple ingredients, quick prep, and a filling result — this dish is perfect for busy nights when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal. It’s a great way to get more veggies in with less time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

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