School lunches
What to pack for school lunches….Yes, it’s that time of year already! Kids are headed back to school. Some kids buy their lunches at school, others bring it everyday. If you are like most moms, coming up with new and fresh ideas to keep your kids from getting bored of “the same old thing” can be a bit tough. Well, look no further. If you rotate these dishes in every once in a while, don’t be surprised if you get calls from your kids’ friends’ parents asking what exactly it is you are packing in the lunches because they are such a hit and the talk of the lunch table!
Peanut Butter (and Jelly) Sandwich
Meat and cheese rolls – Place a piece of cheese on top of a slice of deli meat and roll!
Pasta (in marinara, or butter and cheese)
Parsley Spaghetti – Make this the night before and serve the leftovers for lunch.
Pasta Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
Carnitas – Typically, I will make carnitas for dinner and then use the leftovers for lunches the next day. I portion all of the side items into bags, as well as tortillas. The kids LOVE them!
Grilled Chicken Ceasar Salad
Cut veggies and ranch dip
Apples and peanut butter
More leftovers from dinner – If you make something for dinner that your child loves, why not make a bit extra so you can put it in lunch the next day? All you need is a good thermos!
Soup – If you child eats soup, there is no reason why you can’t pack it in their lunch. You can make it ahead of time and then just zap it in the microwave or heat it on the stove before pouring it into the thermos.
TIME SAVING TIPS:
- On Sundays, portion out snack bags of chips/pantry items for the week to save time on busy mornings.
- The night before, put cut fruit in plastic containers and other cold items in appropriate bags or containers (meats, dressings, veggies, etc).
- Leave a small space in your refrigerator to put all lunch items the night before so you don’t have to scramble in the morning looking for what you need.
- If you want real convenience, you can buy individual packs of ranch dressing, peanut butter and petite dill pickles.