As a pediatrician and a mom, I’ve always been mindful of the meals I serve my family, especially during the holidays. With so many indulgent treats around, I like to balance things out by incorporating more plant-based meals into our routine. Not only are these meals better for the environment, but they’re also packed with nutrients that are crucial for growing kids. A plant-based diet can help boost energy, improve digestion, and support healthy development.

The best part? It doesn’t have to be complicated! These three one-pot vegetarian meals are easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and perfect for the busy holiday season.

To make these meals even more enjoyable, I love using Ahimsa’s stainless steel dinnerware . With its vibrant colors and practical design, every dish feels a little more special while staying safe, durable, and eco-friendly. 

Want to know more? Check out our story and our products. 

As a pediatrician, I often recommend incorporating more plant-based meals into children’s diets because they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals while being lower in saturated fats. Plant-based meals can support long-term health by reducing the risk of chronic conditions like obesity and heart disease. Plus, they are a great way to introduce kids to a variety of flavors and textures, encouraging healthy eating habits from an early age.

Here are three simple, nutrient-packed one-pot vegetarian dinners that your whole family will love!

Overnight oats are a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. You prepare them the night before, and in the morning, all you have to do is grab and go! This version adds a holiday twist with warm cinnamon and antioxidant-rich berries.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the lentils, zucchini, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

This lentil and vegetable stew is a comforting, nutrient-dense meal that’s perfect for growing kids.For a cozy dining experience, Serve it in Ahimsa’s stainless steel bowls . , The bowls’ polished surfaces reflect the vibrant colors of the meal, and they keep the stew warm longer, perfect for lingering conversations on chilly nights. Plus, they’re durable enough to handle all the spills and excitement of dinnertime!

Chickpeas are another fantastic plant-based protein that kids usually love because of their mild flavor and texture. This chickpea and spinach curry is flavorful but not too spicy, making it a great family-friendly option.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
2. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional minute.
3. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Stir and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the spinach and cook for another 5 minutes, until wilted.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan.

This curry is a great way to introduce your kids to new flavors while ensuring they get a dose of leafy greens. Serve it on Ahimsa’s stainless steel plates , which are perfect for keeping food fresh and warm throughout dinner. The plate’s compartments keep rice, curry, and toppings neatly separated, which is perfect for kids who like their food organized. The reflective finish adds a touch of elegance, transforming a simple dinner into a special holiday meal.

For a lighter, veggie-packed option, pasta primavera is a great choice. It’s loaded with colorful vegetables and whole grains, making it a nutritious and delicious meal that your kids will enjoy. Plus, it all cooks in one pot for minimal cleanup!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper, and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
3. Add the pasta and enough water to cover the pasta by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Stir occasionally until the pasta is cooked and the water has been absorbed (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Stir in the green peas and Parmesan cheese (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

This pasta primavera is a vibrant and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up! Serve it on Ahimsa’s stainless steel plates, where the colors of the veggies pop beautifully against the polished steel and are is perfect for portion control and family dining.

As a mom and pediatrician, I know how important it is to make sure your kids are getting the right nutrients, especially during the busy holiday season. These one-pot vegetarian meals are not only healthy and packed with the essential vitamins and minerals kids need but are also simple and quick to prepare.

And when served on Ahimsa’s stainless steel dinnerware , these meals feel as thoughtful as they are nourishing. The durable, non-toxic design makes dinnertime stress-free, while the vibrant, polished look adds a touch of festive charm to every table.

These recipes are designed to make your holiday dinners stress-free, nutritious, and fun for the whole family. Let’s show our kids that plant-based meals can be both delicious and nourishing!

Shop Ahimsa's Stainless Steel Dishware Collection for eco-friendly, kid-safe dinnerware that makes every meal a celebration. Here’s to a holiday season filled with health, happiness, and a touch of Ahimsa!