Whipping up healthy, veggie-packed meals for the family can be as simple as opening up your freezer. Bags of frozen vegetables, whether it’s spinach, sliced peppers, corn, or a veggie medley, are one of the most important items to keep on hand for easy weeknight dinners. Not only do they allow you to skip the chopping and washing, they can also be used as the base for pasta sauces, pie fillings, casseroles, soups, and stir-fries. To make things even easier, frozen veggies keep for months, so you can stock up and use later.
Easy Brunswick Stew
Our take on the classic Southern stew makes smart use of frozen peppers, onions, corn, and lima beans for a quick but tasty meal that makes terrific leftovers for next day’s lunch. While traditional Brunswick stew often features game meat such as rabbit, we opt for pulled pork or shredded chicken, making this smoky soup a crowd-pleaser. Serve with warm, buttered rolls for a meal that is perfect on chilly nights.
Get the recipe: Easy Brunswick Stew
Smashed Pea Pasta
This recipe is proof that you can make a delicious pasta sauce using a bag of frozen peas — plus just a few other ingredients. Peas, mint, garlic, and lemon come together in a fragrant sauce that is packed with nutrients and takes just minutes to make. This is a great dish for when you’re running low on ingredients but want something fresh and quick.
Get the recipe: Smashed Pea Pasta
Cuban-Style Picadillo with Rice
Savory, sweet, and smoky, this dish starts out with a package of frozen peppers and onions and a package of ground beef. Raisins, cinnamon, and green olives add pops of unique flavor. While it is delicious served over rice, it also makes a fantastic empanada filling.
Get the recipe: Cuban-Style Picadillo with Rice
Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Ultra-comforting and rich frozen veggies bump up the nutrition of this family-favorite dish. Shortcuts like rotisserie chicken, frozen puff pastry and canned soup make this dish a snap to cook on a busy weeknight. Individually wrapped pies are perfect as starters or serve a few as a main.
Get the recipe: Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Tater Bite Shepherd’s Pie
While traditional shepherd’s pie is topped with mashed potatoes, we’ve swapped in crispy tater bites for a quick meal that kids will love. Bring this recipe to the next level by sprinkling a couple handfuls of shredded cheese on top of the casserole right before baking.
Get the recipe: Tater Bite Shepherd’s Pie
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Sesame, Cucumber, and Egg
Just toss a bag of frozen stir-fry veggies in a pan with a little water and soy sauce, and pretty soon you’ll have a tasty, healthy meal. The addition of eggs lends some much-needed protein, while the sesame seeds add texture and a nutty flavor. This dish is budget-friendly and cooks up in minutes — perfect for those busy nights when you need something quick.
Get the recipe: Vegetable Stir-Fry with Sesame, Cucumber, and Egg
Tomato and Chickpea Soup
Frozen carrots and green beans are the base of this nourishing and hearty soup. Add pantry staples like vegetable stock and tomato puree to boost the flavor. Serve with crusty French bread for a warming lunch or light dinner.
Get the recipe: Tomato and Chickpea Soup
Fusilli Bake with Spinach, Pesto, and Peas
This cheesy, gooey casserole is filled with all the goodness of spinach and peas. Pesto and sundried tomatoes add a punch of flavor. The result? An easy family favorite (also great for potlucks) you can whip up in no time. Add sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
Get the recipe: Fusilli Bake with Spinach, Pesto, and Peas
Veggie Frittata
Keep it light with this simple veggie omelet, which is as versatile as it is easy. Use a stronger cheese, such as a sharp cheddar, in place of the Monterey Jack, to dial up the flavor. Also, feel free to swap in your favorite frozen veggies, such as peppers or green beans. Serve with toasted bread and a salad for a quick lunch or dinner.
Get the recipe: Veggie Frittata
Broccoli Pizza Supreme
Using frozen broccoli and peppers as a quick pizza topping is a great way to get the kids excited about eating their veggies. Make this pizza your own by adding pepperoni, sliced olives, or whatever other toppings you have on hand. Let the kids make their own pizzas for a fun family activity.
Get the recipe: Broccoli Pizza Supreme
