When it comes to back to school lunches for kids, there are certainly some popular favorites that tend to stand out. There are always the classic sandwich options like peanut butter and jelly, ham and cheese, or turkey and avocado. But because it’s good to switch it up, we pulled together some back-to-school lunch recipes that veer away from the usual choices. They’re fun and a little creative, but not too crazy; we want the kids to eat, after all! These food options stay fresh and crisp, provide plenty of nutrients, and may have high trading value on the school playground. (Not that you care about the last point, but your kiddos sure will.)
Make extra when crafting these back-to-school lunch recipes — you’ll want some too. Plus, many are portable allowing for easy transportation to school with the use of butcher paper or other vessels.
What Makes a Good School Lunch?
Meals that are nutritious, delicious, and easy to eat. Each lunch should include a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy options with portion sizes that are age-appropriate and right for the activity level of your kiddos. School lunch is an important aspect of promoting healthy habits and academic success among students.
Back to School Lunches
Smoked Chicken Wrap
Smoked chicken, roasted tomatoes, mixed greens, and cheddar cheese drizzled in honey and Sriracha then finally stuffed inside a whole wheat wrap. Do we have your mouth watering yet? Make sure your child gets the nutrients they need in this uniquely upgraded chicken wrap.
Turkey and Granny Smith Apple Sandwich
Getting kids started with meal prep often begins by making them comfortable with simple combinations of ingredients. This tasty sandwich is a great segue to bigger things.
White Bean Tuna Salad Wraps
Small in size, these White Bean Tuna Salad Wraps are not only delicious but are loaded with nutrients perfect for midday pick-me-ups. You may just beat that two o’clock slump after eating these for lunch! Pro tip: Make one for your own brown bag lunch!
Homemade Pizza Hot Pockets
Hot Pockets may be a freezer food favorite but a healthier option is to make them from scratch. You’re able to use real, fresh ingredients and can even pack them full of good-for-you foods like mushrooms and spinach such as in our Homemade Pizza Pockets.
Fun Fruit Sammies
Bring the kids in to the kitchen to participate in the making of these sandwiches. The fun is part of the process!
Hot Dog Roll-Ups
These are not your grandmother’s roll-ups. You can build a world of flavor into these yummy treats.
Lunchtime Tamales
Spice things up with Lunchtime Tamales that come in their own little banana leaf packing. These bundles pack big flavor with a delicous filling inside a homemade masa dough. Your kids will love showing this lunch off to their entire table.
Kid-Friendly Summer Salad
Keep your kids refreshed and satisfied with our delicious and kid-friendly summer salad, perfect for the start of the school year. A nutritious delight for the entire family. Don’t forget to pack the dressing on the side for maximum freshness. No one likes a soggy salad!
Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Sandwich
This roasted Carrot and Chickpea Sandwich combines simple techniques to draw out sweetness with creamy and savory flavors for this delightful veggie sandwich.
Caprese Kebabs
Our future prediction: A quick, kid-friendly lunch of Caprese Kebabs is what you’re packing for the little ones this week.
For snack options that give your kiddos the little energy boost they need to get through the day, check out Back-to-School Snack Ideas for Kids.
Story by Jordan Snowden and Kylie Thomas
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