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Cold Lunch Ideas for High Schoolers

As the school year rolls on, many high schoolers find themselves in the routine of grabbing something quick to eat in between classes. Packing a cold lunch can be a great way to ensure they have a nutritious meal that keeps them energised for study and play. However, it can sometimes be challenging to come up with fresh and exciting ideas. Here, we present a variety of cold lunch ideas that are both delicious and easy to prepare, ensuring your teenager stays satisfied throughout the day.

1. Classic Sandwiches with a Twist

While standard ham and cheese sandwiches are always a favourite, consider giving this classic a modern twist.

• Wrap It Up: Tortilla wraps filled with chicken, avocado, and mixed salad leaves provide a nutritious and delightful option. Add a drizzle of ranch dressing or hummus for extra flavour.
• Pita Pockets: Stuff wholemeal pita bread with falafel, tzatziki, and chopped vegetables for a refreshing Mediterranean touch.

2. Hearty Salads

Salads don’t have to be boring. Get creative with vibrant ingredients for a filling meal.

• Pasta Salad: Combine cold pasta with cherry tomatoes, olives, mozzarella balls, and basil for an Italian-inspired dish. A splash of pesto can elevate the flavour nicely.
• Quinoa Salad: This superfood is not only healthy but also easy to prepare. Mix cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, diced peppers, and lime juice for a zesty bowl full of nutrients.

3. Bento Box Delights

Bento boxes are a fun way to present a variety of foods and can keep the lunch exciting day after day.

• Decant Portion Sizes: Include small servings of sliced fruit (such as apple wedges or grapes), mixed nuts, cheese cubes, and mini rice cakes.
• Protein Picks: Add hard-boiled eggs or turkey slices alongside vegetable sticks with hummus or guacamole for dipping.

4. Homemade Sushi Rolls

While it may sound intricate, making sushi rolls at home can be a fun activity.

• Easy Rolls: Use sushi rice and nori (seaweed sheets) to make simple rolls with fillings like cucumber, carrots, or even cooked chicken. Use soy sauce for dipping and watch your high schooler enjoy a little taste of Japan during lunch.

5. Dips and Spreads

Create a lunch that’s all about the dips.

• Veggie Sticks and Hummus: Carrot, cucumber, and pepper strips paired with a small container of hummus make for a crunchy, satisfying lunch.
• Cheese and Crackers: Pack a mix of wholegrain crackers, a selection of hard cheeses, and perhaps some apple slices for sweetness.

6. Nutritious Fruit Combos

Fruit can be a refreshing and healthy part of a cold lunch.

• Fruit Salad: An assortment of berries, melon, and sliced citrus can brighten up any lunchbox. Drizzle with a bit of honey for sweetness.
• Yoghurt Parfaits: Layer Greek yoghurt with granola and fresh fruit in a reusable container for a deliciously creamy treat.

7. Sweet Treats for Balance

A little dessert can make lunchtime even more enjoyable.

• Oatmeal Cookies: Bake a batch of healthy oatmeal cookies with added nuts or raisins for a lunchtime treat that packs a nutritional punch.
• Energy Bites: Whip together dates, oats, and nut butter to create energy bites, which are easy to store and perfect for a mid-afternoon snack.

Conclusion

Packing a cold lunch for high schoolers doesn’t have to be stressful or monotonous. With a bit of creativity, you can prepare a variety of nutritious and appealing meals that cover all food groups. Aim for a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, and don’t hesitate to let your teenager get involved in the lunch preparation process. This can make lunchtime a much-anticipated part of their day, rather than just a hurried meal before the next class. Happy packing!

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