11 Picky Eater Lunchbox Recipes for School

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Veggie and Hummus Wraps

Veggie and Hummus Wraps are a delicious and nutritious option for picky eaters, making them perfect for lunchboxes! These wraps are not only colorful and appealing but also packed with fresh vegetables and creamy hummus, making them a great way to sneak in some healthy options. They’re easy to customize based on what veggies your child enjoys, ensuring that lunchtime is both exciting and tasty.

Cooking Steps:

1. Lay a whole wheat tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread 1/4 cup of hummus evenly over the tortilla.
3. Layer the slices of cucumber, bell pepper, grated carrot, spinach leaves, and avocado on top of the hummus.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Carefully roll the tortilla to enclose the filling tightly, then slice in half.
6. Pack in a lunchbox with your child’s favorite fruit or snack. Enjoy!

Mini Pita Pockets With Turkey and Cheese

Mini Pita Pockets with Turkey and Cheese make for a delightful and appealing lunch option for picky eaters. These bite-sized pockets are easy to handle and can be filled with tasty ingredients that provide a good balance of protein and dairy. The combination of turkey and cheese is not only familiar and comforting but can also be complemented with fun additions like lettuce or a light spread, ensuring that lunchtime is both enjoyable and nutritious.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cut each mini pita in half to create pockets.
2. Spread mustard or mayo inside each pita half if using.
3. Layer in a slice of turkey and a slice of cheese into each pocket.
4. Add a small lettuce leaf or any additional toppings if desired.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pack in a lunchbox with a side of fruit or a favorite snack. Enjoy!

Fruit and Yogurt Parfait

Fruit and Yogurt Parfait is a delicious and nutritious option for picky eaters, offering a colorful and appealing combination of layers that can be customized with their favorite fruits and yogurt flavors. This dish is not only visually enticing, but it also provides a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and natural sweetness that makes it perfect for lunchboxes or snacks.

Cooking Steps:

1. Start by selecting your favorite fruits and wash them thoroughly, cutting them into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
2. In a glass or container, layer 1/3 of the Greek yogurt at the bottom.
3. Add a layer of mixed fresh fruits (about half of the total amount).
4. Sprinkle a layer of granola on top of the fruits.
5. Repeat the layering with yogurt, fruits, and granola until all ingredients are used.
6. Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top if desired, and sprinkle with chia seeds for added nutrition.
7. Cover and pack in a lunchbox, or serve immediately for a rejuvenating treat!

DIY Pizza Rolls

DIY Pizza Rolls are a fun and customizable lunch option for picky eaters, combining the flavors of pizza in a convenient, portable form. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and can be filled with a variety of ingredients based on your child’s preferences, making them a perfect addition to any lunchbox.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle shape.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and diced bell peppers on top.
5. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other and seal the edges.
6. Cut the roll into bite-sized pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, then let cool before packing in a lunchbox. Enjoy!

Colorful Bento Box With Rice and Veggies

Colorful Bento Box With Rice and Veggies is a vibrant and nutritious lunch option that is perfect for picky eaters. This dish features colorful vegetables and seasoned rice, presenting a visually appealing and delicious meal that can be easily assembled in a bento box, making lunchtime fun and enjoyable.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil, mixing well to evenly coat the rice.
2. Place the seasoned rice in one section of the bento box.
3. Arrange the veggies (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and edamame) in separate sections around the rice, creating a colorful display.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the rice and veggies for added flavor and texture.
5. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before closing the bento box for an appealing finish. Enjoy your colorful lunch!

Cheese Quesadillas With Avocado Dip

Cheese Quesadillas With Avocado Dip are a delicious and simple lunch option for picky eaters. This dish features gooey melted cheese sandwiched between soft tortillas, served alongside a creamy avocado dip that adds a fresh and tasty twist. It’s quick to prepare and is sure to please even the fussiest of eaters!

Cooking Steps:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Place one flour tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly on top. Cover it with a second tortilla.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden and the cheese is melted. Remove from the skillet and cut into wedges.
4. For the avocado dip, mash the avocado in a bowl, then add lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
5. Serve the quesadilla wedges with the avocado dip on the side. Enjoy your cheesy, tasty lunch!

Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps are a fresh and healthy lunch option that is perfect for picky eaters. They consist of a flavorful chicken salad made with tender, cooked chicken, creamy dressing, and a medley of crunchy veggies, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. These wraps are easy to make and offer a fun way to enjoy a nutritious meal without the fuss of traditional sandwiches.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, diced celery, sliced green onions, and halved grapes.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Spoon the chicken salad mixture onto each lettuce leaf, wrapping them up like a taco.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and crunchy chicken salad lettuce wraps!

Pasta Salad With Hidden Veggies

Pasta Salad With Hidden Veggies is a delightful and nutritious lunch option that appeals to even the pickiest of eaters. This colorful dish is made with pasta, a variety of hidden vegetables, and a light dressing that keeps it fresh and flavorful. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients without compromising on taste, making it an excellent choice for lunchboxes.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and hidden veggie puree.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the pasta salad, and sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your tasty pasta salad with hidden veggies!

Peanut Butter Banana Sushi

Peanut Butter Banana Sushi is a fun and nutritious lunchbox option that kids will love! This tasty roll-up combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the sweetness of bananas, all wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla. It’s an easy, no-cook dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with protein and healthy fats, perfect for a mid-day energy boost.

Cooking Steps:

1. Spread peanut butter evenly over the whole wheat tortilla.
2. Place the banana horizontally at one end of the tortilla.
3. Drizzle honey and sprinkle chia seeds and cinnamon over the banana if desired.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly around the banana, starting from the end closest to the banana.
5. Slice the roll-up into bite-sized pieces and pack it into the lunchbox for a delightful treat!

Egg Muffins With Spinach and Cheese

Egg Muffins with Spinach and Cheese are a fantastic lunchbox option that’s not only easy to make but also packed with protein and nutrients. These delightful mini frittatas are perfect for picky eaters, as you can customize them with various vegetables and cheese according to your child’s preferences. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient choice for busy mornings.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin with olive oil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach and shredded cheese, along with any optional toppings.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the muffins are set and lightly golden on top.
6. Let the muffins cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Pack them in the lunchbox for a delicious and healthy meal!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a nutritious and flavorful lunchbox option that even picky eaters can enjoy. These tacos are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a delicious way to introduce kids to fresh ingredients. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory black beans, and you can customize the toppings based on your child’s favorites.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and dice sweet potatoes into small cubes.
2. Toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a pan, heat the rinsed black beans over medium heat until warmed through.
5. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave for a few seconds until soft.
6. Assemble the tacos by layering the roasted sweet potatoes and black beans, then add any optional toppings.
7. Pack the tacos in the lunchbox with any extra toppings on the side for a fun and tasty meal!