Healthy Lunch Ideas for Lunchboxes – Alternatives to Sandwiches
If you are anything like me, then you begin the year with a hiss and a roar. Lunchboxes packed with yummy, healthy items and kids with full tummies. Then they start to get tired of sandwiches. It doesn’t matter what you put on them, the sandwich-boredom-struggle is real! We have your answer. Yummy and healthy lunch ideas without a sandwich in sight.
1 - Wraps, Pita Pockets, Rolls and English Muffins
This is a simple alternative to sandwiches. Things that perform the same function as two slices of bread, but look and taste slightly different. You can pack them full of goodness and variety to keep hungry tummies full and satisfied.
2 – Dumplings
Dumplings are so simple to make and are delicious. Protein and veg wrapped up in a yummy little parcel. You can even include a dipping sauce in one of our leakproof bento box compartments or containers to make them even better. Try this dumpling recipe as a starting point.
3 – Sushi
Get the kids to help and make your own sushi at home. You can by a bamboo sushi mat from your local supermarket or Asian supermarket. Get creative with your kids’ favourite fillings! Depending on the filling, you may want to consider using an insulated lunchbox or cool pack to keep them fresh.
4 - Savoury Pikelets
A little meal that fits in the palm of your hand. Fill them with veges or meats and your kids will scoff them all. Try this delicious looking recipe from Bite, mix up the flavour combinations as much as you like!
5 – Smart Slices
Slice recipes can be packed full of goodness. Great ingredients mixed together to form a wholesome snack for your kids. Check out our Smart Slice recipe for a golden syrup delight, or our Frittata recipe for a savoury alternative.
6 – Muffins or Loaves
Instead of adding fillings to a sandwich, bake the yummy fillings right into the batter with mouth-watering muffins or loaves. Not only are they healthy and filling, but it’s another chance to get the kids involved with their lunch preparations. Sweet treats can include our Blueberry Zucchini Bread or Banana Choc Chip Muffins. If the kids prefer savoury, these Corn and Cheese Muffins from Kidspot are sure to be a hit.
7 – Lunchtime Tapas
Who says that kids need to have one big lunchtime item to fill them up. Provide them with a variety of fruit and veg and several small portions of any of the above ideas. Instant lunchtime tapas.
We know these healthy lunch ideas for lunchboxes will be a hit in your household. We would love to hear which was the favourite option at your house. Leave us a comment below. Also let us know if you have any other popular healthy lunch ideas in your household.