Finding healthy, plant-based lunch ideas for kids that they will actually eat can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! These 7 lunch box ideas are fun, nutritious, and most importantly, kid-approved. Let’s dive in!
1. Rainbow Veggie Wraps
Ingredients:
Whole wheat tortilla or flatbread
Hummus (any flavor your kid loves)
Shredded carrots
Sliced cucumbers
Bell pepper strips (red, yellow, and orange)
Spinach or lettuce
Directions:
Spread a generous layer of hummus over the tortilla.
Layer on the veggies in colorful stripes.
Roll it up tightly and slice into pinwheels for a fun, bite-sized option.
Pro Tip: Let your kids choose the veggies they like best. Adding their favorites increases the chances they’ll devour the whole thing!
2. Mini Pita Pockets with Plant-Based Filling
Ingredients:
Mini whole wheat pita pockets
Mashed avocado
Black beans or chickpeas (cooked and seasoned)
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Shredded lettuce
Directions:
Cut the mini pita in half to create pockets.
Fill each pocket with mashed avocado.
Add the beans, tomatoes, and lettuce.
Pro Tip: Pack the components separately and let your child assemble the pita at lunch for extra fun. Plus, this keeps the bread from getting soggy!
3. DIY Plant-Based Lunchables
Ingredients:
Whole grain crackers
Plant-based cheese slices
Sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers
Hummus or guacamole for dipping
Directions:
Pack crackers, cheese, and sliced veggies in separate compartments.
Include a small container of hummus or guacamole for dipping.
Pro Tip: Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes out of the plant-based cheese or veggies. Kids love bite-sized shapes!
4. Vegan Sushi Rolls
Ingredients:
Nori sheets
Sushi rice (or any sticky rice)
Avocado slices
Cucumber strips
Grated carrots
Directions:
Lay a nori sheet on a bamboo rolling mat or clean surface.
Spread a thin layer of rice over the nori, leaving an inch at the top uncovered.
Add your veggie fillings in a line near the bottom.
Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and pack them up!
Pro Tip: Serve with a small container of soy sauce or tamari for dipping. Keep it minimal to avoid messes.
5. Plant-Based Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
Whole grain pasta (penne or spirals work well)
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Olives (optional)
Diced cucumbers
Chickpeas
Olive oil and lemon juice for dressing
Directions:
Cook the pasta and let it cool.
Toss the pasta with the veggies and chickpeas.
Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
Pro Tip: Make this ahead of time for busy mornings. The flavors get even better after sitting in the fridge overnight.
6. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadilla
Ingredients:
Whole wheat tortilla
Mashed sweet potato
Black beans
Nutritional yeast (optional for a cheesy flavor)
Directions:
Spread mashed sweet potato on half of the tortilla.
Add black beans and sprinkle with nutritional yeast.
Fold the tortilla in half and heat in a skillet until golden brown.
Pro Tip: Cut the quesadilla into wedges for easy eating. Pair it with a small container of salsa for dipping.
7. Fruit and Veggie Power Bowl
Ingredients:
Quinoa or brown rice
Sliced strawberries
Blueberries
Steamed broccoli florets
Edamame
A drizzle of tahini or plant-based yogurt
Directions:
Layer the quinoa or rice at the bottom of the container.
Arrange the fruits and veggies on top in sections.
Drizzle with tahini or pack a small container of plant-based yogurt for a creamy topping.
Pro Tip: Keep the fruits and veggies separate if your child prefers not to mix flavors.
Final Thoughts
Packing plant-based lunch boxes doesn’t have to be a battle. With these healthy lunch recipes, you’ll have plenty of inspiration to keep your kids’ lunch routine fresh and exciting. Whether you’re using these ideas for school lunches or weekend picnics, they’re bound to please even the pickiest eaters.
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