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As the new school year approaches, parents often find themselves scrambling to come up with creative and healthy lunch ideas that their kids will love. We understand the struggle, so here are some unique and tasty recipes to make your child's lunchbox stand out—instead of the day-to-day cheese sandwiches (we love them, though!).
Mango Blended Overnight Oats
Image via Lauren Twigge Nutrition
Mango blended overnight oats are a perfect blend of rolled oats, mango, milk, and a touch of honey. Simply combine 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/4 cup of mango, 1/2 cup of milk, and a drizzle of honey until smooth—or until it reaches a pudding-like consistency. Pour the mixture into a thermos or airtight container and serve with mango slices on top to garnish.
Don't forget to leave it in the fridge overnight! This creamy treat is both filling and delicious, making it an excellent addition to any lunchbox. Also, you can always make it with any kind of fruit!
Autumn Salad
Image via Cooking on the Front Burners
Try combining thin apple slices with various veggies and nuts for a fresh and crunchy salad. Start by slicing one apple into very thin pieces and adding them to a mix of chopped carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, lettuce, and bell peppers. Sprinkle some chopped almonds or walnuts for added crunch and some sliced toasted bread to take the crunch to the next level.
The dressing is made by whisking together 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, a pinch of salt and pepper, and a few drops of lemon juice. This salad is healthy and packed with flavour, making it an excellent option for kids who like salads or are trying to get into nutritious food.
Club Sandwich
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A classic Club Sandwich is always a hit with kids. Layer sliced turkey, ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise between three slices of bread. Cut the sandwich into quarters, or use a cookie cutter to make fun shapes. This sandwich is easy to make and can be customised with your child's favourite fillings.
Chicken Salad Sandwich
Image via Chelsea’s Messy Apron
For a protein-packed lunch, try a chicken salad sandwich. Mix diced cooked chicken with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Serve the chicken salad as a wrap or in any kind of bread.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Image via Cookies for Days
A lunchbox is only complete with a sweet treat. For a chocolatey delight that kids will adore, bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Mix together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of salt, 1 cup of unsalted butter, 3/4 cup of white sugar, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 large egg and 1 egg yolk, and 2 cups of semisweet or dark chocolate chips. Scoop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 180°C for about 10 minutes.
Mini Pancakes
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Mini pancakes are a delightful and versatile addition to any back-to-school lunch! To make them, start by whisking together 1 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of milk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter or oil. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and pour small circles of batter onto the skillet, cooking until bubbles form on the surface, then flipping to cook the other side until golden brown. After they're cooked, pack them in a lunchbox with whatever side your kid likes!
