11 Make-Ahead Protein Boxes for Back-to-School

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Chicken and Veggie Hummus Box

The Chicken and Veggie Hummus Box is a nutritious and easy-to-make option for busy weekdays, perfect for kids and adults alike. This protein-packed box combines tender chicken with crisp vegetables and a creamy hummus dip, making it a delicious and satisfying meal that can be prepared in advance to simplify back-to-school routines.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Arrange the chicken, hummus, and assorted vegetables in separate compartments of a meal prep container.
3. If using, cut the pita bread into halves or quarters and place in the container.
4. Seal the box and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature!

Greek Yogurt Parfait Box

The Greek Yogurt Parfait Box is a delightful and nutritious option for breakfast or a midday snack, combining creamy Greek yogurt with fresh fruits, crunchy granola, and a drizzle of honey. This make-ahead parfait is perfect for busy school mornings, offering a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins that will keep energy levels up throughout the day.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a meal prep container, start by adding a layer of Greek yogurt at the bottom.
2. Layer a portion of fresh berries on top of the yogurt.
3. Sprinkle granola over the berries for crunch.
4. Drizzle honey on top, and add chia seeds or nuts if desired.
5. Repeat the layers until the container is filled. Seal and refrigerate until ready to eat. Enjoy chilled!

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups are a simple yet satisfying protein-packed snack or lunch option that kids will love. These roll-ups are not only easy to prepare in advance but also portable, making them perfect for school lunches or after-school snacks. With layers of deli turkey, cheese, and optional veggies wrapped tightly, these roll-ups are a delicious way to keep energy levels up throughout the day.

Cooking Steps:

1. Lay a whole wheat tortilla on a clean surface.
2. Spread a layer of cream cheese (if using) over the tortilla.
3. Place 2 slices of turkey and 1 slice of cheese on top of the cream cheese.
4. Add bell pepper slices and spinach leaves for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly, ensuring all ingredients are enclosed.
6. Slice the roll-up into bite-sized pieces and secure with toothpicks if necessary. Store in a meal prep container and refrigerate until ready to eat. Enjoy!

Quinoa Salad Protein Box

Quinoa Salad Protein Box is a nutritious and satisfying option that combines the hearty goodness of quinoa with colorful vegetables and protein-rich ingredients. This salad is perfect for meal prep as it can be made in advance, stored in individual containers, and enjoyed throughout the week. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients based on your kids’ preferences while keeping them energized for their busy school days.

Cooking Steps:

1. Rinse quinoa under cool water, then combine with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, feta cheese, and chickpeas.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add fresh parsley if desired. Divide into meal prep containers and refrigerate until ready to eat. Enjoy!

Peanut Butter and Apple Slices

Peanut Butter and Apple Slices are a simple yet delicious snack that combines the crispness of fresh apple slices with the creamy and rich flavor of peanut butter. This protein-packed treat is perfect for back-to-school lunches, providing a satisfying and nutritious option that can keep your kids energized during their busy day. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition to your meal prep routine.

Cooking Steps:

1. Wash the apples thoroughly and slice them into wedges or rounds, discarding the core.
2. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on each apple slice.
3. If desired, sprinkle cinnamon on top for extra flavor and garnish with sliced almonds for added crunch.
4. Arrange the prepared apple slices in meal prep containers and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Hard-Boiled Eggs and Spinach

Hard-Boiled Eggs and Spinach make for an excellent protein-packed snack that is nutritious and satisfying. This easy-to-prepare dish combines the wholesome goodness of eggs with the vibrant, leafy taste of spinach, making it a perfect option for busy school days. These make-ahead protein boxes offer a versatile and healthy choice that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with whole grain crackers or pita bread.

Cooking Steps:

1. Place eggs in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for about 12 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, rinse the spinach in cold water and sauté it in olive oil over medium heat until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. After 12 minutes, transfer the eggs to ice water for about 5 minutes to cool.
5. Peel the eggs and slice them in half or quarters. Pack the eggs and sautéed spinach into meal prep containers for a quick and easy snack. Enjoy!

Mini Pita Pockets With Tzatziki

Mini Pita Pockets with Tzatziki are a delightful and nutritious option for busy school days, perfect for packing in lunchboxes or enjoying as after-school snacks. These small, handheld pockets are filled with colorful veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce, making them a rejuvenating and protein-packed choice. They are incredibly easy to prepare in advance, ensuring that kids have a delicious and healthy option ready to grab and go!

Cooking Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine diced cooked chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix in the tzatziki sauce until the ingredients are well-coated.
3. Cut the mini pitas in half and carefully open them, creating pockets.
4. Fill each pita half with the chicken and veggie mixture.
5. Pack the filled pita pockets in meal prep containers, ready for a quick and healthy snack or lunch. Enjoy!

Cottage Cheese With Pineapple

Cottage Cheese with Pineapple is a simple, nutritious, and protein-rich dish that makes for a perfect snack or a light breakfast for busy school mornings. The combination of creamy cottage cheese with the sweetness of pineapple creates a revitalizing and satisfying treat that kids will love. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare in advance, allowing for quick access to a healthy option throughout the week.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese and pineapple chunks.
2. If desired, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon for added flavor.
3. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Pack into meal prep containers, topping with chopped nuts and fresh mint if desired.
5. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy as a quick snack or breakfast option.

Tuna Salad and Crackers

Tuna Salad and Crackers is a protein-packed, convenient lunch option perfect for busy school days. This dish combines delicious canned tuna with fresh ingredients, creating a flavorful salad that can be paired with crunchy crackers. Easy to prepare ahead of time, Tuna Salad can be portioned out into snack-sized containers for an excellent grab-and-go meal.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, and chopped red onion.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined.
3. Spoon the tuna salad into meal prep containers.
4. Pack the crackers separately to maintain their crunch.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and store in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Edamame and Sweet Potato Cubes

Edamame and Sweet Potato Cubes is a nutritious and colorful addition to any make-ahead protein box, ideal for busy school days. This dish combines protein-rich edamame with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. These two ingredients can be prepared in advance and packed conveniently for an easy snack or side dish.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and dice the sweet potato into small cubes, then toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
3. Spread the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, boil the edamame in salted water for 3-5 minutes until tender.
5. Drain the edamame and let both the edamame and sweet potato cool before portioning into meal prep containers.

Snack Plate With Almonds and Dark Chocolate

Snack Plate With Almonds and Dark Chocolate is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an ideal addition to your make-ahead back-to-school protein box. This dish combines the crunchy goodness of almonds with the rich, indulgent flavor of dark chocolate, creating a satisfying snack that provides both energy and nutrients. It’s easy to prepare and carry, making it a go-to option for busy school days or after-school munchies.

Cooking Steps:

1. Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces or use chocolate chips.
2. In a bowl, mix the raw almonds, chopped dark chocolate, and dried fruits together.
3. Sprinkle sea salt over the mixture to enhance flavor.
4. Portion the mix into individual containers or snack bags for easy grab-and-go options.

Store in a cool, dry place until ready to enjoy!