Packing a lunch that your picky eater will actually eat can feel like solving a daily puzzle. As a parent, I’ve had my fair share of lunch box wins and failures, so I know how challenging it can be.
But with a little creativity and a dash of patience, you can make lunchtime exciting and nutritious.
Here are 15 simple lunch box ideas that have been tried, tested, and loved by picky eaters.
1. DIY Lunchables
Let your child build their own lunch with mini crackers, cheese slices, turkey or ham, and some fruit on the side.
My kids love being in control of their meal, and this idea makes them feel like they’re eating a fun store-bought lunch.
2. Mini Sandwich Skewers
Skip the traditional sandwich! Use toothpicks to stack small pieces of bread, cheese, deli meat, and veggies like cucumbers. Picky eaters often enjoy bite-sized options.
3. Breakfast for Lunch
Who says breakfast is just for mornings? Pack mini pancakes, hard-boiled eggs, and a small container of syrup or honey.
Add some fruit like grapes or strawberries for a balanced meal.
4. Pizza Rolls
Homemade or store-bought pizza rolls are always a hit. Pair them with a small container of marinara sauce for dipping and some carrot sticks on the side.
5. Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt, granola, and their favorite fruits in a small container. This sweet treat feels like dessert but is packed with nutrients.
6. Quesadilla Slices
Cheese quesadillas cut into small triangles are easy to eat and perfect for little hands. Pair with salsa or guacamole and add some cherry tomatoes on the side.
7. Pasta Salad
Cold pasta salad with bite-sized veggies, cheese cubes, and a light dressing is a colorful and enticing option. You can customize it with your child’s favorite ingredients.
8. Veggie Muffins
Sneak some veggies into their lunch with savory muffins made from zucchini, carrots, or spinach. My kids were skeptical at first, but once they tried them, they kept asking for more.
9. Rainbow Wraps
Use a tortilla to wrap colorful veggies, cheese, and deli meat. Slice into pinwheels for an easy-to-eat option. Letting your child pick the wrap color (spinach or tomato-based) adds to the fun.
10. Chicken Nuggets with Dip
Pack some baked chicken nuggets with a side of ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. Add a small serving of apple slices or cucumber sticks for balance.
11. Mini Bagel Sandwiches
Use mini bagels to make small sandwiches with cream cheese and turkey or ham. They’re easy to hold and perfectly portioned.
12. Bento-Style Lunch
Create a variety-packed lunch box with small portions of crackers, cheese, deli meat, fruit, and a sweet treat. Bento boxes make lunch feel like an adventure.
13. Homemade Sushi Rolls
Use rice and seaweed wraps to create simple sushi rolls with cucumber, carrots, and cream cheese. My kids love dipping them in soy sauce.
14. Cheese and Veggie Kabobs
Alternate cubes of cheese with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and bell peppers on skewers. These are fun to eat and packed with nutrients.
15. Smoothie in a Bottle
Blend their favorite fruits with yogurt and a splash of milk or juice, then pack it in a leak-proof bottle. Pair it with a small container of crackers or trail mix.
Final Thoughts
Lunchtime doesn’t have to be stressful. With these ideas, you can keep your picky eater engaged and excited about their meals while ensuring they get the nutrition they need.
Remember, variety is key, and involving your child in the lunch-packing process can make all the difference.
As the saying goes: “Children are great imitators, so give them something great to imitate.” Happy lunch packing!
