It’s that time again, so don’t add to the stress of this often ho-hum conundrum of what to make for lunch. Use this meal as an opportunity to get extra servings of fruits and vegetables in.
For a vested interest, have your child take part in packing their lunch. Kids are more likely to eat foods that they have helped choose and prepare. This can be as simple as cutting up some fruit and cheese into cubes, and having your child assemble kabobs on skewers or sturdy straws. Place them in a container in a lunch bag, along with a handful of whole grain crackers, and a yogurt for dipping.
In fact, most kids enjoy dipping foods. Take a leftover dinner protein item like grilled chicken, cut it into strips, add sugar snap peas, baby carrots, whole grain pretzels, and hummus or ranch dressing.
In a time crunch? California rolls made with brown rice are a portable and convenient finger food available at many supermarkets. Pack with some sliced star fruit, or your child’s favorite fruit for a healthy dessert.
If your child enjoys ethnic choices, use containers with small compartments and try these:
1. Mediterranean – Whole grain Pita wedges, hummus, Greek yogurt, tabouli, grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, green beans.
2. Mexican – Guacamole, black bean dip, whole grain chips, low fat cheese cubes, red and yellow pepper strips.
3. Italian – Prosciutto or ham wrapped around a sesame breadstick, mozzarella balls, roasted red peppers, and artichoke hearts.
Roll up deli meats and low fat cheese slices in a whole grain wrap and cut into pinwheels for a twist on the same old boring sandwich. Pack with 1/2 cup trail mix instead of chips to add fiber, healthy fats, and calcium.
Soups and pasta salads hold over well in a good thermos.
Don’t make lunch a major homework assignment. These nuevo ideas will put the classic PB&J on the back burner. Bon Appétit!
Follow Me On Instagram
Like My Facebook Page
My LinkedIn
