Both of my kids will happily tell Fun Aunt what they would like to eat. And one of my kids will BEG to be allowed to cook it herself, which could be both helpful and fun!

If the mom doesn’t tell you you need to ask. There is no one teen palate.

Yes please ask! I have two teens that generally eat well, but have different preferences. One will happily eat tofu and beans, where the other is more carnivore. They both love starchy carbs--pasta, ravioli, mashed potatoes. They both like salmon but mostly prepared in a certain way. They prefer roasted vegetables to steamed or fresh...that kind of thing.

So ask them what their top three favorite meals are and go from there. But if they don't give you an answer then you can do a few "build your own" bowl type dinners.

Burrito: chicken, beans, tortillas, lettuce, tomatoes, corn, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa

Mediterranean: rice or farro, salad, seasoned chickpeas, falafel, dolmas, hummus, tzatziki

Japanese: rice, edamame, cooked shrimp,
Imitation crab, salmon, cucumbers, shredded carrot, seaweed squares, soy sauce, kewpie Mayo

Ask them what they like.

You should ask them. My teens would eat sushi and Indian food for every meal if possible. One of their friends would eat pancakes and ravioli for each meal if possible. Just be straight forward and ask.

I’m staying with my teen nieces while my sister attends a work conference. I’m a competent not expert cook and not used to teen palates. Can you please suggest what are popular dinners for your teens? I plan to have them buy school lunch and assume cereal will be fine for breakfast. Thanks!