11 High-Protein Recipes for Teen Lunches at School

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Greek Yogurt Parfait With Berries and Granola

Greek Yogurt Parfait with Berries and Granola is a delicious and nutritious dish that makes for an ideal breakfast or snack for busy teens heading back to school. Packed with protein from Greek yogurt and bursting with flavor from fresh berries and crunchy granola, this parfait is not only satisfying but also easy to assemble, making it a perfect quick meal option.

Instructions:

1. In a bowl or a glass, layer half of the Greek yogurt at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
3. Sprinkle half of the granola over the berries.
4. Repeat with the remaining yogurt, berries, and granola.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle chia seeds on top if desired before serving. Enjoy!

Protein-Packed Smoothie Bowls

Protein-Packed Smoothie Bowls are a fantastic way for teens to kickstart their day or refuel after school activities. These vibrant bowls are not only visually appealing, but they are also loaded with protein-rich ingredients like Greek yogurt and nut butter, along with a variety of fruits and toppings that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Easy to customize, smoothie bowls allow teens to mix and match their favorite flavors while staying healthy.

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, frozen banana, spinach leaves, nut butter, and milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the thickness by adding more milk if necessary.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with your choice of sliced fruits, granola, seeds, and nuts.
4. Enjoy your colorful and protein-packed smoothie bowl with a spoon!

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups are a simple and delicious high-protein snack or lunch option that teens will love. These bite-sized delights are made with turkey slices and cheese for a quick, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for on-the-go eating. They can also be customized with various veggies and spreads to suit individual tastes.

Instructions:

1. Lay out the turkey slices on a clean surface and spread cream cheese or hummus evenly over each slice.
2. Place a slice of cheese on top of the turkey and then add spinach or lettuce along with sliced bell peppers.
3. Roll each turkey and cheese slice tightly from one end to the other.
4. Secure with toothpicks if necessary and slice in half for easy eating.
5. Enjoy your protein-packed Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups as a snack or packed lunch!

Quinoa Salad With Chickpeas and Veggies

Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Veggies is a vibrant and nutritious dish that serves as an excellent high-protein meal option for teens, perfect for school lunches or after-school snacks. Packed with protein-rich quinoa and chickpeas, along with a variety of colorful vegetables, this salad is not only satisfying but also customizable to suit any preferences.

Instructions:

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, rinse and drain the canned chickpeas.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, diced bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your nutritious Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Veggies!

Egg Muffins With Spinach and Cheese

Egg Muffins with Spinach and Cheese are a delicious and highly nutritious high-protein option for teens, making them an excellent addition to school lunches or quick breakfasts. These versatile muffins are easy to prepare and can be customized with various ingredients, providing a satisfying meal packed with protein and vitamins.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach and shredded cheese, along with any optional add-ins you desire.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are set in the center and lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin. Enjoy your protein-packed Egg Muffins with Spinach and Cheese!

Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats are a quick and nutritious breakfast option that offers a great protein boost for busy teens. This no-cook recipe combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter, the natural sweetness of bananas, and the hearty texture of oats, making it a satisfying meal that can be prepared the night before for a hassle-free morning.

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl or jar, combine rolled oats, milk, peanut butter, chia seeds (if using), honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir until well mixed, ensuring the peanut butter is evenly distributed.
3. Fold in the sliced banana, then cover and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
4. In the morning, give it a good stir, and add more milk if you prefer a creamier consistency. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats!

Black Bean Tacos With Avocado

Black Bean Tacos With Avocado are a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy teens. Packed with plant-based protein from black beans and healthy fats from avocado, these tacos are not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. They make a great lunch or dinner option that can be enjoyed at home or taken on the go.

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the canned black beans (drained and rinsed) and season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave until pliable.
3. Assemble the tacos by placing a generous spoonful of black beans on each tortilla.
4. Top with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the top for added flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your Black Bean Tacos With Avocado!

Cottage Cheese and Pineapple Snack

Cottage Cheese and Pineapple Snack is a simple yet nutritious dish that makes for an excellent high-protein option for busy teens. This invigorating snack combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the sweetness of pineapple, making it a delightful choice for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or a post-workout treat.

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine cottage cheese and honey, stirring until well mixed.
2. Gently fold in the fresh pineapple chunks and chia seeds.
3. Spoon the mixture into serving bowls and garnish with mint leaves, if desired.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a chilled snack later. Enjoy your Cottage Cheese and Pineapple Snack!

Grilled Chicken Wrap With Hummus

Grilled Chicken Wrap With Hummus is a delicious and nutritious option perfect for busy teens looking for a high-protein meal. This wrap combines the wholesome flavors of grilled chicken with creamy hummus, fresh veggies, and a tortilla, making it a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner. It’s quick to prepare and easy to customize, making it an ideal meal for those on the go.

Instructions:

1. Spread the hummus evenly over the entire surface of the whole wheat tortilla.
2. Layer the sliced grilled chicken, spinach leaves, bell pepper, cucumber, and feta cheese (if using) on one side of the tortilla.
3. Season with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go, to create a wrap.
5. Slice in half and enjoy your Grilled Chicken Wrap With Hummus!

Lentil Soup With Spinach and Carrots

Lentil Soup With Spinach and Carrots is a hearty, nutritious dish that’s perfect for teens looking for a healthy, high-protein meal. This comforting soup is packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant spinach, and sweet carrots, making it deliciously satisfying for any time of day. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in bulk, ensuring there are plenty of leftovers for busy school days.

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add diced carrots and cook for a few more minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm Lentil Soup With Spinach and Carrots!

Edamame and Brown Rice Bowl

Edamame and Brown Rice Bowl is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for active teens looking to pack in protein and energy. This colorful bowl brings together the wholesome goodness of brown rice, protein-rich edamame, and a variety of fresh vegetables, all drizzled with a tasty sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare, making it ideal for busy school nights or a satisfying lunch.

Instructions:

1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat, add edamame, sliced bell pepper, and shredded carrot, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
3. Combine cooked brown rice with the sautéed vegetables, cucumber, and chopped green onions in a bowl.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce, sprinkle sesame seeds, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss everything together gently and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your nutritious Edamame and Brown Rice Bowl!