Jul 7, 2016, 4:12:06 PM CDT Feb 23, 2023, 5:02:19 PM CST

4 easy and healthy school lunch ideas for kids

Use these easy and fresh lunch ideas to help kids get the nutrition they need

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school girl eating sandwich at lunch with friends school girl eating sandwich at lunch with friends

Packing a school lunch is a great way to help your child make healthy choices, but it can be easy to get stuck in a rut. This school year, think outside the box and beyond the sandwich.

Here are a few ideas for easy, healthy lunches, midday meals and snacks that will carry kids through the day.

1. Wrap It

(use whole-wheat tortillas)

  • Veggie wrap (any vegetables, low-fat cheese and dressing)
  • Lettuce, leftover taco meat, cheese
  • Grilled chicken, lettuce, low-fat ranch dressing
  • Hummus, julienne carrots and cucumber, olives

2. Dip It

  • Baked chips and salsa
  • Pretzels and honey mustard
  • Vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, etc.) and low-fat ranch dressing
  • Fruit (apples, strawberries, etc.) and yogurt dip
  • Grilled chicken strips and honey mustard

3. Chunk It

  • Cubes of low-fat cheese with crackers
  • Cubes of lean meats (ham, turkey)
  • Cubes of fresh fruit (pineapple, oranges, apples)

4. Mix It

  • Trail mix with any combination of cereals, nuts, pretzels, dried fruit and a few chocolate bits
  • Air-popped popcorn and parmesan cheese

Want more ideas? See more tips for packing healthy school lunches.

Download a free recipe e-book

Looking for easy meal ideas to keep your family healthy? Download 10 Easy and Healthy Weeknight Suppers to receive dietitian-recommended recipes your kids will love.

Learn more

Making one healthy choice at a time can help your family on the journey to wellness. Learn more about our pediatric weight management programs and services.

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