Healthy Back to School Lunch Ideas

healthy back to school lunch recipesBack to school season means back to school lunches! Have you run out of new ideas? Use these healthy, easy lunch tips to add joy and variety to even the pickiest of little one’s lunchbox this fall.

Frozen Fruit Smoothie Pops: Send yummy homemade smoothies to school with fun popsicle molds, which you can find at department stores, grocery stores, or online. Make your child’s favorite smoothie recipe at your convenience, and fill the molds almost to the top with smoothie. Make sure to leave 1/4 in. for expansion, and freeze overnight. Your kids can enjoy it as a pop, or eat it with a spoon or straw!

Pita Pocket Pizza: Pack this on-the-go twist on a kids favorite! Fill half of a whole-wheat pita pocket with 2-3 tbsp. tomato sauce, 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and add your child’s favorite toppings. Include things like fresh veggies, grilled chicken, turkey pepperoni and more! Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 10 mins or until cheese is melted. These delicious pockets are simple to make, and can easily be reheated at school or eaten at room temperature.

Apple Ring Sandwiches: Make eating fruit more fun! Slice a cored apple into rings. Spread peanut butter or alternatives like sunflower butter or almond butter onto the apple rings. Top the peanut butter with raisins, almond slices, granola, or mini chocolate chips for a sweet, healthy treat!

Whole Wheat Pasta Salad: Try this healthy alternative to a traditional pasta-based lunch like mac & cheese. Cook whole wheat pasta following package directions (choose a fun shape your kids will love!). Drain pasta and chill in the refrigerator, or run it under cold water until completely cool. Toss pasta with a small amount of light Italian dressing, salt and pepper to taste.  Add in your child’s favorite diced veggies for a colorful and tasty lunch that’s perfect for school!

Deli Roll-ups: Prepare this spin on a traditional sandwich! Take 1-2 pieces of thinly sliced deli meat of your choice. Spread 1 tbsp. mustard (a lower-calorie alternative to mayo) on the deli slices. Top with diced veggies and shredded cheese. Roll up deli slices, and secure with a toothpick to hold the roll together.

Healthy Back to School Lunch Ideas

There you have it! Your child will love these yummy meals when lunchtime rolls around, and you’ll be happy to have some new and simple recipes to add to your lunchbox routine! 

Envelope Icon Love this article?

Sign up and we'll send more inspiration straight to you.

Sign up now