While children’s taste buds can be notoriously unpredictable, there’s no reason why they should be subjected to the same old menu options at every meal. In fact, offering a diverse range of flavors and textures can help foster healthy eating habits from an early age. To that end, we’ve compiled 15 easy-to-make lunch recipes that are sure to delight even the most discerning young palates.
Mediterranean Penne Pasta Salad (Meal Prep)
If you’re on the hunt for a creative, healthy, and satisfying make-ahead lunch option that doesn’t involve sandwiches, look no further than this delectable Mediterranean penne pasta salad. With its bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and effortless prep time, it’s the perfect solution for busy days when you need a nutritious pick-me-up.
Sun-Dried Tomato, Parmesan & Rosemary Palmiers
When hosting guests for pre-dinner snacking, the usual suspects – bland crackers and stale nuts – can quickly lead to a dull evening. To elevate this experience, I turned to the humble puff pastry, transforming it into crispy ‘palmiers’ filled with an irresistible combination of sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and fragrant rosemary. The result is a delightful departure from the ordinary, perfect for sparking conversation and adding a touch of sophistication to your gatherings.
Easiest Ever Ham and Cheese Pizza Scrolls
It’s amazing how often the simplest ideas can lead to the most satisfying lunches. Take these effortless ham and cheese pizza scrolls, for instance. Not only do they require a mere 20 minutes of preparation time, but they’re also freezer-friendly and perfect for packing in a lunchbox. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! If you’re interested in giving them a try, simply click here for the recipe.
Masala Vegetable Quesadillas (Indian Style)
Experience the delightful fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisines with Masala Vegetable Quesadillas, where a medley of colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and melted cheese come together in harmony. When you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner option that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Indo-Mexican inspired quesadilla recipe fits the bill.
Easy Spaghetti Made With Rao’s Marinara Sauce
Indulge in the simplicity and flavor of homemade spaghetti, perfectly paired with Rao’s renowned marinara sauce. This classic combination can be elevated by serving with a fresh green salad or adding a source of protein for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwich Rolls (with Lavash Bread)
These refreshing cucumber pinwheels, also known as cucumber and cream cheese sandwich rolls, are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you’re planning a picnic, BBQ, or packing lunch for school or work, these tasty treats are sure to satisfy. They even make a lovely addition to an afternoon tea or light dinner.
Easy, Step by Step Potato and Salmon Fish Cakes (Salmon Patties)
Potato and salmon fish cakes, also referred to as salmon patties, offer a trifecta of benefits: they’re a speedy and effortless dinner solution that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters, an affordable option, and a nutritious choice to boot. This convenient recipe is not only a staple for a quick weeknight meal, but it also happens to be a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3 rich salmon.
Mini Broccoli Quesadillas – Healthy Toddler Recipe
Mini quesadillas are an ideal snack for toddlers and kids, thanks to their bite-sized nature. These mini Broccoli Quesadillas are not only a cinch to prepare but also pack a nutritious punch. What’s more, they’re an excellent recipe to whip up with your little ones in under 10 minutes.
Hawaiian Chicken Salad with Pineapple – Healthy Snack or Lunch for Kids!
A nutritious and kid-friendly snack or lunch option, this Hawaiian Chicken Salad with Pineapple is perfect for toddlers and children. What’s more, it’s incredibly easy to prepare on a busy day with just 5 simple ingredients. The best part? This recipe doesn’t include any raw ingredients, making it a great opportunity for kids to get involved in the cooking process.
3 Ingredient Tuna Salad – Cooking with Toddlers
Making tuna salad with toddlers couldn’t be simpler. This 3-ingredient recipe requires just canned tuna, mayonnaise, and salsa – that’s it! With these basic pantry staples, you’ll have a delicious and easy-to-make tuna salad in no time. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize and adjust to your little one’s tastes and preferences.
Grilled Peanut Butter Sandwich with Banana and Strawberries
Indulge in the ultimate peanut butter sandwich experience! A mouth-watering combination of grilled peanut butter sandwiches, succulent bananas, and sweet strawberries creates a match made in heaven. The satisfying crunch of toasted bread, the creamy richness of melted peanut butter, and the freshness of the fruit come together harmoniously, elevated by a drizzle of honey that adds a touch of sweetness. Treat yourself to this delightful treat and discover why it’s the perfect snack or dessert.
The 5 Minute Turkey Bacon Ranch Wrap
The daily grind of packing lunches has been a persistent challenge for me since my children started attending school. In fact, I find myself eagerly anticipating the ‘fun lunches’ organized by their school, much like a child might eagerly await Christmas morning. These events bring a delightful lunch and a welcome respite from my usual responsibilities.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps
Indulge in a satisfying and delectable lunch experience with the Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap, which perfectly balances flavor, ease of preparation, and value. This versatile recipe is ideal for utilizing leftover chicken, resulting in a nutritious, revitalizing meal that won’t break the bank.
Rainbow Hummus Veggie Wrap (Tortilla Wrap)
This vibrant Vegan Rainbow Vegetable Tortilla Wrap bursts with a medley of colorful vegetables that kids of all ages adore. Its versatility makes it an ideal option for school lunches, casual brunches, or on-the-go meals. Experience the flavors and colors for yourself by checking out the recipe [here].
Peanut Butter, Strawberry And Banana Quesadillas (Gluten-Free, Whole Grain Options)
As back-to-school week continues, I’m excited to share some thrilling alternatives to the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Imagine opening your lunchbox to find a quesadilla filled with peanut butter, banana, and strawberry – a far cry from the usual PB&J! The surprise on your child’s face is sure to be worth the extra effort. And it’s not just about the novelty; introducing new flavors and textures can help keep their taste buds engaged.
This got me thinking, what else can we do to mix things up in the lunchbox department? Well, I’ve got 15 simple yet mouthwatering recipes that are sure to be a hit with kids. From there, you can experiment and find your own unique combinations to keep things fresh and exciting.
Instructions
For a quick and easy solution to healthy lunch ideas for kids at home, simply click on the link below each photo to access the full recipe and instructions. Not only will you find inspiration for your next meal, but you’ll also have the opportunity to share your own creations by posting a photo under my pinned recipe on Pinterest!