11 High School Lunch Ideas for the New School Year

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Mediterranean Wraps

Mediterranean wraps are a delicious and nutritious option for high school students looking for a satisfying lunch that can be easily packed and enjoyed on-the-go. These wraps are filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making them a great choice to fuel busy days. With fresh veggies, protein-packed hummus, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, Mediterranean wraps offer a balanced meal that is both tasty and healthy.

Cooking Steps:

1. Spread a layer of hummus evenly on each whole grain wrap.
2. Layer cucumber, red bell pepper, tomato, mixed greens, feta cheese, and olives on top of the hummus.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Roll up each wrap tightly, then slice in half for easier eating.
5. Pack in a lunch container and enjoy!

Quinoa Salad Bowls

Quinoa salad bowls are a versatile and hearty lunch option perfect for high school students. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a light dressing, these bowls are not only satisfying but also offer a variety of nutrients. They are easy to prepare in advance and can be customized based on individual preferences, making them an excellent choice for busy school days.

Cooking Steps:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and combine it with water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed.
2. Allow quinoa to cool, then fluff it with a fork in a large bowl.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley to the quinoa.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve in bowls or store in airtight containers for lunch.

Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels

Turkey and cheese pinwheels are a fun and easy-to-make lunch option for high school students. These snacks are packed with protein and can be made ahead of time, allowing students to grab a tasty bite on the go. With their colorful presentation and delicious flavor, turkey and cheese pinwheels are sure to be a hit during lunchtime.

Cooking Steps:

1. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each tortilla wrap.
2. Layer sliced turkey breast, cheese slices, and lettuce on top of the cream cheese.
3. If desired, add a thin layer of mustard and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly, starting from one edge, to form a pinwheel shape.
5. Slice the rolled tortilla into 1-inch pieces and secure with toothpicks if needed. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for lunch.

Veggies and Hummus Snack Packs

Veggies and hummus snack packs are a nutritious and satisfying lunch option that high school students can enjoy during their busy day. These colorful snack packs are packed with vitamins and fiber-rich veggies, paired with creamy hummus for dipping, making them a healthy and delicious choice that’s easy to prepare and even easier to eat on the go.

Cooking Steps:

1. Wash and cut the carrot, celery, cucumber, and bell pepper into snack-sized pieces.
2. Arrange the veggies in a small container or bento box, separating them by type for a colorful presentation.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the container alongside the cut veggies.
4. Serve with a portion of hummus in a small compartment of the container for dipping.
5. Cover and refrigerate until ready to pack for lunch.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a revitalizing and hearty dish that combines tender pasta with grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and the distinctive flavors of Caesar dressing. This salad is perfect for high school lunches as it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, filling, and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced grilled chicken, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and Caesar dressing; mix well.
3. Add grated Parmesan cheese and croutons, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately or pack in a container to refrigerate until lunch.

DIY Taco Lunchables

DIY Taco Lunchables are a fun and customizable meal option for high school students that brings the fiesta to lunchtime. These easy-to-assemble taco kits allow students to build their own tacos, making lunchtime enjoyable while also being nutritious. Packed with flavor and healthy ingredients, DIY Taco Lunchables are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the ground beef or turkey by cooking it until fully brown; season to preference.
2. Arrange the mini tortillas, cooked meat, shredded cheese, lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, and avocado in a container.
3. Add any optional toppings for extra flavor.
4. Pack the lunch for easy assembly at school—just grab a tortilla and fill it with your favorite toppings!

Caprese Skewers

Caprese Skewers are a delightful and revitalizing lunch option for high school students. These simple yet elegant skewers combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze for an extra zing. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also provide a healthy dose of protein and vitamins, making them a perfect grab-and-go lunch option.

Cooking Steps:

1. On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball, and then a basil leaf.
2. Repeat this process until the skewer is filled, leaving space at the ends for easy handling.
3. Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pack the skewers in a container for an easy, nutritious lunch option that can be enjoyed cold!

Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups

Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups are an easy, nutritious, and delicious lunch option for high school students. This quick-to-prepare dish consists of whole grain tortillas spread with creamy peanut butter, filled with ripe banana, and rolled up for a delightful bite-sized treat. Perfect for busy days, these roll-ups are both satisfying and energizing, making them an ideal grab-and-go snack.

Cooking Steps:

1. Spread 2 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly over each tortilla.
2. Place one banana on each tortilla and roll it tightly.
3. If desired, drizzle honey, sprinkle cinnamon, and add sliced almonds on top of the banana before rolling.
4. Slice the rolled tortillas into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
5. Pack the roll-ups in a container for a quick and healthy lunch option!

Mini Pita Pockets

Mini Pita Pockets are a fun and versatile lunch option perfect for high school students. These bite-sized pockets are packed with nutritious fillings, including proteins, veggies, and spreads, making them a balanced meal that is easy to customize for different tastes and dietary preferences. They’re an excellent choice for students looking to fuel their busy school days!

Cooking Steps:

1. Cut the mini pitas in half to create pockets.
2. Spread a layer of hummus inside each pita half.
3. Fill each pocket with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, grated carrots, and cooked chicken or turkey if desired.
4. Add lettuce or spinach, and sprinkle feta cheese on top if using.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pack the mini pita pockets in a container for a tasty and nutritious lunch!

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits are a delicious and nutritious lunch option for high school students, combining layers of creamy yogurt, fresh fruits, and crunchy granola. This easy-to-make dish can be customized with various fruits and flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings. It’s a great way to refuel and enjoy a balanced meal packed with vitamins, protein, and fiber!

Cooking Steps:

1. In a clear glass or bowl, start by adding a layer of Greek yogurt at the bottom.
2. Next, add a layer of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
3. Sprinkle a layer of granola over the fruit.
4. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass or bowl, finishing with a layer of yogurt and berries.
5. Drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top if desired, and sprinkle with chia seeds or nuts for added crunch.
6. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to pack in a lunchbox!

Energy Bites for a Sweet Treat

Energy Bites are a delightful, no-bake snack that provide a great source of energy for high school students. These small, sweet treats are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nut butter, and honey, making them perfect for a quick grab-and-go option for lunch boxes or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Customize with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, seeds, or dried fruit for a nutritious boost!

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nut butter, honey, chocolate chips, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
2. Mix the ingredients until well combined and the mixture holds together.
3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls with your hands.
4. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before packing them in your lunchbox or enjoying them!