10 back-to-school lunch ideas that aren’t sandwiches
We’re all getting back into the swing of back-to-school time and that means making school lunches again. Whether you’re more of a 'night before lunch maker' or you wake up earlier in the morning to put lunch together, reaching for the loaf of bread time and time again can get boring for you and your little ones.
Instead of always opting for two slices of bread with a bit of ham and cheese or tuna salad inside, mixing it up a bit can help ensure your child gets a more varied diet and will lessen the chances of them returning home from school with just a couple of bites taken out of their sandwich.
We’ve come up with 10 back-to-school lunch ideas that won’t cost a fortune or take a lot of time to make. Check them out below and give them a go!
Pesto and chicken pasta salad
A quick and easy meal with lots of flavour. If your child doesn't like pesto, how about a ham and salad pasta instead?
Vegetable samosas
A yummy dish to encourage your child to eat extra vegetables in their school lunchbox.
Stuffed peppers
Ideal to use up leftover chilli. You can try stuffing the peppers with cream cheese as an alternative!
Chicken quesadillas
A super quick lunch to that can be made with a variety of toppings. Chicken and cheese is great for a savoury option, or peanut butter and banana for a sweet treat.
Cheesy broccoli and chicken bake
Perfect to make at dinner time and use the leftovers for the next day's lunch.
Crackers and cheese with a twist
Let your child build their own Lunchable by including crackers, cream cheese, cheese slices, ham, tomatoes or any toppings they enjoy. A cheaper alternative to a lunchtime favourite!
Spicy fried rice
A perfect option if your child is adventurous with their food, and a great way to use leftover rice.
Easy vegetable soup
With the weather cooling down, a hearty soup is a great way to get your little ones through the school day. Pack in a flask so they can enjoy it warm at lunchtime.
Tortilla pizza margarita
If you don't have leftover pizza to pack in your child's lunchbox, try these easy tortilla pizzas with toppings they love. A great way to keep their calcium and vegetable intake up.
Sweet potato mac & cheese cups
A tasty twist on regular mac and cheese.