Easy and Healthy Lunchbox Ideas

I love when the kids head back to school, but I have to be honest, I dread it for one reason … I have to start making lunches every day. It’s so easy to get into a rut, and nobody likes that. Below are some ideas you can mix and match to make lunches more fun and healthy.

DIY Lunchables

Every kid loves Lunchables, but no mom loves the high fat and salt content that comes with many of them. Everyone can be happy with this make-your-own version. Just choose your favorite organic turkey or ham, slice some cheese (I used a cookie cutter to make fun shapes), and include the crackers. Round things off with a fruit, cut veggies, and a peanut-free trail mix (mine has Goldfish crackers, Chex mix, M&Ms, and raisins).

All Kinds of Kebabs

Kebabs are fun to eat and you can get really creative making them too! Here, I did a caprese salad kebab with mozzarella balls, grape tomatoes, and basil. For “dessert” I made a fruit kebab with pineapple and watermelon (you can use cantaloupe, berries, star fruit, any kind that your child will gobble up) and served it with fruit yogurt for dipping. On the side I offered popcorn cakes and organic fruit tape, because, let’s be honest, not everything that goes in my kid’s lunchbox is made by me.

Nacho Surprise

If your child loves nachos at home, why not give him a taste of them at school? I paired nacho chips with a cup of salsa and some shredded cheese. On the side are sliced peppers and watermelon bites (also cut with a cute cookie cutter).

Pizza, Please

If nachos aren’t your kid’s thing, or you want to change it up, try a build-your-own pizza lunch. I cut an English muffin in half and served it with muffin cups filled with mini pepperonis, shredded cheese, and pizza sauce. The dessert is banana chips.

Bagels and More

My son and I love a good bagel and I especially like these miniature ones for his lunch. I spread cream cheese on one and then add halved tomatoes, cucumbers, and cubed cheese. For a drink, I throw in one of his favorites, an organic smoothie.

What do you like to put in your kiddos’ lunch boxes? —Jenn A.