This post is sponsored by Milk2Go. The opinions on this blog, as
always, are my own.
Tis’ the season for all things back to school and that includes packing lunches. If you are like me, you’re wanting to compile a list of quick, easy, and healthy lunch ideas that your kiddos with love. I like to believe a sandwich isn’t the only option out there and packing those lunch bags can be simpler than we think.
There’s nothing worse than opening your lunch bag and seeing the same old thing staring back at you. We like variety and so do they! I try to include a veggie, fruit, grain, dairy and protein in my daughter’s lunch. Healthy options are key here because they learn better when they have full tummies filled with nutritious foods. To help you out in the creativity department and make those mornings a little less hectic, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite healthy options.
I hope these healthy school lunches will spark some inspiration for you!
Veggies
I always like to include at least one vegetable option for my daughter. We have been doing this since she started eating solids and I have to say, they are her first choice! A lot of kids are picky when it comes to the green stuff, but veggies come in all colors, shapes and sizes. They can be fun snack sized foods when cut up into smaller pieces. Think veggie skewers, caesar salad, caprese skewers or ants on a log using celery. Include some hummus or veg dip and you’re set! Kids love dipping foods!
Fruit
This is one of the easier categories to prep because your little one likely loves most fruits and many are already bite sized! I love to include cut up apples, berries, melon, or oranges. Try using some cookie cutters to shape those melon pieces into kid friendly shapes like flowers or butterflies.
Dairy
There are the obvious choices like cheese and yogurt, but I have been opting for Milk2Go shelf stable milk lately. This is a stock up and store option that can keep safely in your pantry for months without refrigeration or preservatives. The fresh milk is flash heated to high temperatures to eliminate any bacteria and then it is safely stored in aseptic bottles. It is nutritious, delicious and great for families on the go! Chill one the night before and the mini bottles fit perfectly in lunch bags.
Protein
Chicken, beef, ham, and turkey are common choices here. Make sure you send an ice pack to keep your meats cool. If you are like me and prefer to send other protein rich options, white bean dip and hummus are a great choice as well! If your kid’s school is nut free, try peabutter instead. This is a great nut free alternative to peanut butter or almond butter.
Grains
This category is usually their favorite part! Rolled up wraps, bagels, homemade muffins and energy balls are all great choices. You can have a lot of fun here and make mini pizzas or waffles as well. I doubt your little ones will complain! ;)
My 5 Favorite Healthy School Lunches:
Milk2go, bagel with tuna or turkey and cream cheese, cherry tomatoes, kiwi and mango
Tortilla chips and hummus, raspberries and blueberries, cucumbers, and Milk2Go
Sundried tomato wrap with egg and cheese, snap peas, Milk2Go, red pepper hummus, and oranges
Oatmeal muffin, Milk2Go, grapes (halved for younger kids), peppers and cauliflower
Carrots, celery with peabutter and raisins, Milk2Go, strawberries, energy balls (made with oats, dates, cranberries and banana)
What are your kiddos favorite school lunches? I’d love to hear your ideas below!
