The Ultimate Zero-Fuss School Lunch Idea
Back-to-school season is here, which for many, means it’s time to pull the lunch boxes back out and think of creative school lunch ideas! It’s no secret that a healthy and well-rounded lunch is crucial at any age… but especially when it comes to fueling our kiddos! When my daughter was in school, I vividly remember trying to find different school lunch ideas and ways to add variation to her school lunches. You know… something outside of the traditional sandwich, chips, and fruit cup! Allow me to introduce one of my go-to simple school lunch ideas… Bento boxes! These are such an easy and practical way to pack well-rounded school lunches. It’s nothing too involved or time-consuming, and easy to add variation throughout the school year.
The formula to the perfect bento box school lunch is to generally follow the rule of threes. Break each lunch down into three categories… a “main” dish, a fruit and/or veggie, and a side and/or treat. Given that bento boxes are pre-sectioned it makes school lunches so easy. Simply grab one item from each category, arrange them into your bento box, and send your kids on their way with a well-rounded school lunch. To help you gain a few different school lunch ideas, I thought I’d share a few menu options to add to your bento boxes this school year!
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Bento Box School Lunch Ideas
When it comes to creating a low-maintenance but well-rounded bento box lunch, I recommend selecting and packing one item from each of these three sections. Every child is different, but these are a few general ideas to inspire your bento boxes for this school year. You know your child best, so customize these picks to their preferences. Don’t forget a sweet note of encouragement!
MAINS
If you’re looking for a main dish outside of the traditional turkey sandwich, here are a few great options!
- Mini Sandwiches
- Grilled Chicken or Beef Skewers: I recommend removing the protein from the skewer for the sake of school safety.
- Turkey Tortilla Pinwheels
- Turkey Muffins: Try out my tried and true recipe!
- Quesadillas
- Crockpot Chicken: This is a great way to utilize leftovers!
- Avocado Toast
- Egg Muffins
- Mini Bagels: Either keep the toppings simple with cream cheese or create a bagel sandwich!
- Mini Quiches
- Hard-Boiled Eggs
SIDES
Now that we’ve decided on the main dish, let’s explore a few great side dish options!
- Whole Grain Crackers
- Pita Chips
- Hummus
- Yogurt Dip
- Mini Muffins
- Pasta Salad
- Pretzels
- Trail Mix
- Cheese Cubes
- Popcorn
- Rice
FRUITS & VEGGIES
It’s so important to eat the rainbow, and that starts with your daily helping of fruits and veggies! I love using these little containers for smaller portions!
- Apple Slices
- Grapes
- Orange Sections
- Berries
- Kiwi Slices
- Watermelon Cubes
- Pineapple Chunks
- Dried Apricots
- Baby Carrots
- Cucumber Rounds
- Sugar Snap Peas
- Bell Pepper Slices
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Celery Sticks
