Seeking new and nutritious school lunch options? Explore these gluten-free school lunch ideas tailored for children, toddlers, adolescents, and selective eaters! From straightforward sandwiches to imaginative salads, I’ve got your back. Start preparing and ensure your kids return to school with cheerful faces!
From colorful bento boxes packed with a variety of flavors and textures, to creative twists on classic favorites like pizza and tacos, these lunch ideas are designed to be easy to prepare, delicious to eat, and adaptable to suit even the pickiest of eaters. We’ll explore ways to sneak in those essential vitamins and minerals, while still keeping things kid-friendly and appealing.
So, whether you’re a seasoned lunchbox pro or a newbie looking for some inspiration, join me on this exciting journey as we discover a world of tasty, wholesome, and totally Instagram-worthy school lunch ideas that your kids will love. Let’s make lunchtime an adventure they’ll never forget!
- Pack a mini spice kit – Small containers with seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning can liven up bland cafeteria food.
- Use a bento box – These compartmentalized boxes make it easy to pack a variety of healthy snacks, dips, and mini meals.
- Freeze yogurt tubes or applesauce pouches – They’ll thaw by lunchtime for a cool and refreshing treat.
- Make fruit kebabs – Thread pieces of fruit onto skewers for a fun, portable snack.
- Bake your own chips – Thinly slice whole wheat tortillas or pita bread, bake until crispy, and pack with salsa or hummus.
School Lunch Ideas
#19. Vegan Potato Cakes With Carrot & Rice
#18. California Chicken Wraps
#17. Rainbow Hummus Veggie Wrap
#16. Mini Burritos
#15. Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili with Quinoa
#14. Ranch Chicken Wraps
#13. Tuscan Bean Salad
#12. Chicken Pot Hand Pies
#11. Classic Broccoli Salad
#10. Avocado Tomato Salad Power Wrap
#9. BLT Pasta Salad
#8. Granola Crunch Apple-Peanut Butter Sandwich Wraps
#7. Chicken Salad with Grapes & Pecans
#6. Air Fryer Hot Italian Wraps
#5. Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
#4. Dairy Free Macaroni & Cheese
#3. Egg Roll in a Bowl
#2. Chicken Nuggets
#1. Carrot Mint Bisque with Ginger & Bone Broth
How can I get my child to eat the vegetables I pack?
Let them pick their favorite veggies, cut them into fun shapes with cookie cutters, and pack a healthy dip or dressing for dipping. You can also sneak veggies into dishes like pasta sauce.
What are some good drink options besides juice boxes?
Water bottles, plain low-fat milk cartons, or milk boxes frozen overnight to stay cool. Limit sugary fruit drinks.
Any tips for hot lunches?
Use an insulated food jar or thermos to pack hot soup, chili, pasta, or even oatmeal. A hot pack or warm cloth wrapped around can help keep it hotter longer.
How can I make lunch more fun?
Cut sandwiches into shapes with cookie cutters, write jokes or notes, pack a few small sweet treats, or use colorful reusable containers.
