Easy Back-to-School Lunch Ideas

School is back in session, which means class assignments, school supply shopping, a trendy new wardrobe, and new daily routines. And a return to packing school lunches.

Fortunately, school lunches don’t have to be boring anymore. Discover our most-loved back-to-school lunch ideas. 

Sandwiches and Wraps

Sandwiches and wraps are so versatile and easy to make, which make them perfect for school lunches. If you’re in a time crunch, you can quickly make a healthy and delicious sandwich by combining fresh nut butter with your favorite jam. If you feel like getting creative, switch it up by trying a turkey ranch wrap with our homemade ranch dressing. Our creamy almond salad served on whole wheat bread and topped with sprouts and sliced grape tomatoes is also a popular choice among the kiddos. 

Soups 

Soups are also extremely versatile thanks to the wide range of ingredients that can be incorporated into the dish. They’re hydrating, filling, and packed with nutrients from veggies, proteins, grains, and mineral-rich broth. Since schools start their fall semester in August, it’ll most likely be scorching hot out. The last thing your child wants to do is eat a steaming bowl of soup. But what about chilled soups? Fortunately, there are a number of soups that are perfect for enjoying chilled. These soups are light, satisfying, and help us cool down in the heat.

As the weather begins to cool, you can switch to warm soups, which are wholesome and hearty. Remember, the secret ingredient to restaurant-quality soups is a high-powered blender.

Spreads

If you’re looking to elevate your child’s lunch, try incorporating different types of spreads. While you can stick with your typical spread like mayonnaise, why not opt for something healthier that delights the taste buds?

One of our favorite spreads is hummus, a high-fiber and protein-packed food that can go with virtually everything.This Middle Eastern mixture of chickpeas and tahini can be used as a base layer on pizza or sandwich spread in place of mayonnaise or cream cheese. You can also mix it into a lunch bowl with rice or pasta or fill potato skins with it.

For a different flavor profile, try a classic pesto. This aromatic flavorful sauce can be spread on a pizza, tossed with pasta, or added to a sandwich. Traditional pesto calls for pine nuts, which are quite pricey. If you’re on a budget, we recommend using cashews for a deliciously creamy alternative.

Finally, an avocado spread is sure to amp up the flavors in your dish. Not only is it delicious, but it also delivers a variety of health benefits. Throw it on a sandwich, accompany it with chicken, or use it as a dip with crudités. 

Sides

The perfect side dish can make the rest of your meal sing. From creamy pastas and homemade rolls to deviled eggs and mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless. You can also pack colorful fruit and vegetables, fresh salads, rice, coleslaw and more.

The sides you choose can range from simple to more involved, as well as plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. 

Desserts

After you’ve put together the perfect lunch box, round it out with a healthy dessert. After all, no meal is complete without a bit of sweetness.

A fan favorite is our peanut butter chocolate flourless muffins. These moist, chocolatey muffins are gluten free, dairy free, oil free and refined sugar free.

Another dessert that’s sure to be a hit are apple pie cupcakes. This delicious cupcake is filled with apple pie and topped off with whipped cream.

If your child is a chocolate lover, we recommend ​​a chocolate zucchini cupcake. It’s moist and nutritious.

Choose BlendTec for Back-To-School Lunches

If you need an extra hand creating back-to-school lunches, a powerful blender is a must. Shop the entire collection of Blendtec blenders and accessories today!