11 Colorful Lunchbox Combos for School

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Rainbow Veggie Wraps

Rainbow Veggie Wraps are a fun and colorful lunchtime option that combines a variety of fresh vegetables and flavors wrapped in a tortilla. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for back-to-school lunchboxes. These wraps are easy to prepare, can be personalized to suit your taste, and are perfect for busy parents and kids alike.

Cooking Steps:

1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread 2 tablespoons of hummus evenly over the tortilla.
3. Layer colorful vegetables (bell peppers, carrot, cucumber, spinach, purple cabbage, avocado) on top of the hummus, arranging them in a rainbow pattern.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly from one end to another, tucking in the sides as you go.
6. Slice the wrap in half to serve or pack in a lunchbox. Enjoy!

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits are a delicious and healthy treat that make for an excellent back-to-school lunch option. This layered dessert combines creamy yogurt with fresh fruits and crunchy granola, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Not only are they visually appealing, but they can also be made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy mornings.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with honey until well combined.
2. In serving glasses or bowls, layer the ingredients starting with a layer of yogurt, followed by a layer of mixed berries, a layer of granola, and then a layer of banana slices.
3. Repeat the layering process until the glasses are full.
4. Top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a mint leaf for garnish, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for later. Enjoy!

Bento Box Sushi Rolls

Bento Box Sushi Rolls are a fun and creative way to enjoy sushi-style flavors in a portable format, perfect for back-to-school lunches. These bite-sized treats can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them customizable to suit different tastes. They’re not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making them a great option for kids and adults alike.

Cooking Steps:

1. Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions.
2. Once cooked, mix rice vinegar into the rice and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Lay a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat, spread a thin layer of sushi rice evenly on top, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place slices of cucumber, carrot, avocado, and cooked shrimp or crab along the bottom edge of the rice-covered nori.
5. Roll the sushi tightly using the mat, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
6. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired and serve with soy sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Quinoa Salad Jars

Quinoa Salad Jars are a nutritious and vibrant option for back-to-school lunches, providing a delicious blend of flavors and textures in a convenient, portable jar. These salads can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a perfect grab-and-go meal for busy weekdays. With layers of quinoa, colorful vegetables, and flavorful dressings, they are sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Cooking Steps:

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with water in a pot, bring to a boil, and simmer covered for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, corn, black beans, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Layer the quinoa salad in jars, starting with the quinoa mixture followed by diced avocado on top to prevent browning.
5. Seal jars and store in the refrigerator until ready to take to school. Enjoy!

Colorful Hummus Dippers

Colorful Hummus Dippers are a fun and nutritious snack option for back-to-school lunches that kids will love. This dish includes vibrant fresh vegetables paired with a creamy hummus dip, making it both visually appealing and delicious. It’s a perfect way to encourage kids to enjoy their veggies while providing a healthy boost of protein and fiber. Easy to prepare in advance, these dippers are an excellent addition to any lunchbox.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into sticks or slices as indicated.
2. Arrange the sliced vegetables and cherry tomatoes on a platter or in individual containers.
3. Place the hummus in a small bowl or container for dipping.
4. For added crunch, include pita bread triangles along with the veggies.
5. Pack everything into lunchboxes and enjoy fresh at school!

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups are a delicious and satisfying lunchbox option that kids will enjoy. These easy-to-make roll-ups combine the savory flavors of turkey and cheese, wrapped in a whole grain tortilla. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, they provide a great source of protein and can be customized with various spreads or veggies to suit your child’s taste.

Cooking Steps:

1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread cream cheese or mustard evenly, if desired.
2. Place sliced turkey breast evenly across the tortilla, then add cheese slices and a layer of lettuce on top.
3. Roll the tortilla tightly from one end to the other, ensuring the fillings stay inside.
4. Slice each roll-up into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches thick.
5. Pack the roll-ups in the lunchbox and enjoy them fresh!

Pasta Salad With Cherry Tomatoes

Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a revitalizing and colorful dish that’s perfect for lunchboxes. This easy-to-prepare salad combines al dente pasta, ripe cherry tomatoes, and a mix of crunchy vegetables, all tossed together in a light dressing. It’s a nutritious option that keeps well and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy school weeks.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper; pour over the pasta salad.
4. Toss gently to combine and add chopped basil if using.
5. Pack the pasta salad in a lunchbox and enjoy it chilled!

Mini Pita Pockets With Veggies

Mini Pita Pockets with Veggies are delightful, bite-sized meals that are both fun and nutritious, perfect for kids and adults alike. These little pockets are filled with a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables and tangy dressing, making them an excellent addition to any lunchbox. They are easy to prepare, allowing for creativity with various fillings, and can be enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for later.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
2. Slice the mini pitas in half to create pockets.
3. Spread a tablespoon of hummus inside each pita pocket.
4. Fill each pocket with a mix of cucumber, carrot, bell pepper, and spinach or lettuce.
5. Drizzle the dressing inside the pockets for added flavor.
6. Pack the mini pita pockets in a lunchbox and enjoy!

Breakfast for Lunch: Egg Muffins

Breakfast for Lunch: Egg Muffins are a wonderfully versatile dish that makes for a hearty, nutritious meal any time of the day. These savory muffins are loaded with eggs, veggies, and cheese, making them a great protein-packed option that can easily be prepared in advance. They are perfect for lunchboxes, allowing kids (and adults) to enjoy breakfast flavors later in the day.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, diced onion, and shredded cheese.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the egg muffins are set and lightly golden on top.
6. Let cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin and packing into lunchboxes. Enjoy!

Snack Attack: Cheese and Crackers

Cheese and crackers are a classic snack that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also makes for a delicious and satisfying addition to any lunchbox. This combo can be customized with various cheeses, crackers, and even accompaniments like fruit or nuts, making it a perfect option for kids and adults alike who crave a tasty treat.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cut the cheese into slices or cubes, depending on preference.
2. Arrange the crackers on a plate or lunchbox compartment.
3. Place the cheese alongside the crackers.
4. Add a serving of grapes or apple slices for a revitalizing touch.
5. If desired, include a small container of hummus or guacamole for dipping. Enjoy your snack!

Sweet Treat: Energy Bites

Energy bites are a fantastic sweet treat that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition, making them a perfect addition to any lunchbox. These no-bake snacks are easy to prepare and are customizable to fit your child’s taste preferences, ensuring they’ll enjoy a healthy treat that provides sustained energy throughout the day.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, chocolate chips, ground flaxseed, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and form a sticky mixture.
3. If desired, fold in any optional add-ins like nuts, coconut, or dried fruit.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Enjoy your sweet and nutritious treat!