It is always a challenge to come up with healthy ideas for the lunch box that actually get eaten by your kids and that are peanut free. I try to stay away from convenient packaged foods when packing my children's lunches. Here are some things that I pack that actually get eaten:
Hardboiled eggs - gives a great energy boost!
Sliced apples with cinnamon sprinkled on top - I like to add a squirt of lemon juice to keep the apples from turning brown
Homemade oatmeal cookies (an alternative to granola bars)
Diced fresh peaches, pineapple, grapes, mandarin oranges. I like to buy the small Glad containers with a lid which is great for packing these in.
Cubed cheese, sliced pepperoni
Sliced cucumbers, carrot sticks, or celery sticks
Homemade rice krispie squares or cheerio squares, pretzels, mini muffins, popcorn
Leftover pizza, bagels with cream cheese, wraps, sub sandwiches
Soup, macaroni & cheese, chili, or pasta packed in a thermos.
Some more great ideas:
ReplyDeleteWhole wheat crackers to go with cheese and pepperoni;
Egg noodles mixed with chili;
Red, Green or Orange Bell Peppers for dipping.
Veggie dip for veggies - kids love to dip!
Fresh fruit salad - you can add lemon juice to prevent browning and for extra flavour, add apple juice.