7 healthy packed lunch ideas for kids

Healthy packed lunch recipes

Prepare to revolutionise your kids’ lunchboxes! We understand the challenges of having children who are fussy eaters and finding inspiration for nutritious meals that keep them fuelled throughout the day.

At Premier Education, we’re serving up creative ideas beyond your typical sandwiches, ensuring your little ones stay energised, even during those crucial afternoon hours.

Research shows children lacking proper nutrition face a greater risk of having impaired cognitive brain function. So here are our top tips in discovering a new approach that not only satisfied taste buds but is guaranteed to help your kids feel fuelled.

Provide your kids with the wholesome goodness they need with our healthy lunchbox ideas.

Lunchbox pasta salad

Inspired by Jamie Oliver, save time with this quick and easy recipe by tossing together the following ingredients:

Wholewheat cooked pasta, colourful bell peppers, crisp cucumber, protein packed tuna (or chickpeas if you are vegetarian), and a mix of beans, including kidney beans, add salad for an extra crunch.

Top it off with a light and flavourful dressing to elevate the taste like balsamic vinegar or light mayonnaise.

You can prepare these pasta salads the night before ready to serve for your kids lunches throughout the week.

Rainbow wraps

Create vibrant and nutritious rainbow wraps for your child’s packed lunch with this simple method:

Start with a variety of colourful veggies that represent a rainbow like tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.

Add leafy greens such as spinach and a protein of your choice, like ham or a vegan alternative.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free wraps.

Spread a layer of hummus or drizzle a hint of sweet chilli sauce or use other dips to add more flavour.

Include a sprinkle of cheese and roll them up tightly.

These rainbow wraps are not only visually appealing but also a delicious and healthy choice for the whole family’s packed lunches. Make a simple sugar switch by opting for whole, natural ingredients or include some fruit on the side like grapes or apple slices.

Greek yogurt bowl

A yogurt bowl is an refreshing, easy lunch idea or a side snack when bread isn’t on the menu or if you have a fussy easter!

In a bowl, mix together some yoghurt, homemade granola, apple slices, dried apricots, tasty blueberries, sliced bananas, fresh grapes and a drizzle of honey.

If your children don’t like the taste or consistency of yoghurt , get them to try this recipe with cottage cheese as a savoury lunch alternative.

Quick chicken hummus bowl

Begin by making a flavourful chicken salad using lean, cooked chicken mixed with cream cheese.

Cook up a batch of brown rice as a wholesome base for the bowl.

Include colourful veggies like broccoli and potatoes, either roasted or steamed for added texture and nutrients.

Top it off with a generous dollop of homemade hummus as a tasty dip.

This easy-to-make lunch is a great alternative for the whole family, providing a satisfying and nutrient rich option for kids and parents to enjoy at school or work.

Falafel lunchbox

Chickpeas are known for their nutritious goodness, you can prepare falafel patties or choose the easier option and buy them from your local supermarket.

Assemble the sandwich with whole-grain bread or pita, adding a variety of fresh veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce.

To enhance the flavours, add a drizzle of tahini sauce or a dollop of yogurt, perfect for your child’s packed lunch to take to school!

Healthy chicken salad

Transform leftover homemade roast chicken into a delightful and filling chicken salad, perfect for your kids’ packed lunch to take to school.

Start by cooking or using leftover roast chicken, shredding it into bite sized pieces.

Add a mix of fresh vegetables like baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Include a slice or two of ham for an extra touch of protein.

Create a homemade dressing by combining olive oil, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of your favourite herbs.

Toss the ingredients together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

What about the healthy snacks that go inside?

Want more inspiration for a healthy lunch? Don’t forget about the healthier snacks that are served on the side!

Make snack time in your kid’s lunchbox more fun and nutritious with a variety of healthy options. Include sliced fruit like strawberries or grapes, providing natural sweetness and essential vitamins.

For a tasty treat, pack a slice of malt loaf, which is not only delicious but also a good source of energy.

These snacks are perfect for keeping your little one fuelled and satisfied throughout the day while promoting healthy eating habits.

Want to find further inspiration? Read our guide to healthy and budget friendly lunches for your kids.