We are almost 2 months into the new school year which has many parents and kids looking to mix things up when it comes to packed lunches. After a while, the traditional peanut butter and jelly or ham and cheese sandwich tend to get old for kids. Adding variety to lunch is a great way to avoid the lunch times blues and provide a variety of healthy vitamins and minerals to your child’s diet. Try to create a balanced meal by including a protein (meat, dairy, beans, nuts), a healthy fat (nuts, seeds, avocado), whole grains (whole grain bread, pasta, brown rice), and as always plenty of fresh fruits and veggies.
Wrap it up! Instead of boring old bread, use a whole-wheat wrap or tortilla. Add nitrate-free meat, cheese, or veggies. Hummus, guacamole, or nut butters can also be spread on a tortilla and rolled up to add variety. Pair with fresh fruit, veggies, or yogurt.
Who doesn’t love brunch? Pack pancakes or waffles, yogurt, fresh fruit and a hard-boiled egg for a non-traditional lunch your kiddo will love!
Hummus with whole-wheat pita bread, nitrate-free salami of pepperoni, fresh veggies such as carrots and tomatoes, nuts, and fresh fruit.
Make quesadillas ahead of time and pack with fresh guacamole or salsa, whole grain tortilla chips, veggies, and fresh fruit.
Serve it on a stick! Cut up sandwiches, cheese, fruit, and veggies and put on a disposable wooden skewer.
What are some of your go to packed lunches?