Summer is here! For those of you with school-age children that means more mouths to feed at lunch time. Here are some great (and simple!) ideas to help you think outside the “lunch” box and keep those tummies happy.
Muffin Tin Surprise
Kids love anything that is:
- finger food
- small
- contained in tiny little spaces
Enter the idea of arranging little snack type foods in a muffin tin. The variations are endless!
Kiddo Kabobs
For something beyond the sandwich, look no farther than a toothpick and all the makings of a sandwich. Cut small pieces of cheese, meat, bread etc. and arrange on toothpicks or kabob sticks. Fruit kabobs with a healthy yogurt dip (you could even slide a few brownie or marshmallow pieces on there as well for a yummy dessert!) are another favorite.
Pita Pizzas
Fresh pita bread layered with pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella and mini pepperonis or Canadian bacon and pineapple will be a hit with kids and mom. No cooking required!
Smoothies
Keep bags of frozen fruit on hand, vanilla yogurt and any other mix-ins your child loves for a healthy meal alternative. Here are some great recipes!
Yogurt Parfait
This is as simple as simple gets and your kids can even make it! Layer your favorite flavor of yogurt with fresh fruit and granola and voila! Lunch is served. Yes, this is generally a breakfast type food, but who says it can’t be served at lunch?