Kid-approved School Lunches

Sometimes the school lunch choices just don’t sound yummy to the tummy. That’s when you need fast, easy and healthy alternatives. Keep your kids — and yourself — energized and satisfied with these simple lunch ideas.

Quick to Make and Tasty, Too

Try these Dr. Ancy-approved fast-fix lunches for everyone in the family.

• Pita wrap: Hummus, tomato and cucumber wrapped in whole grain pita
• Cheese and bean quesadilla: Spread black beans, light Mexican-style cheese blend and tomatoes on a sprouted grain tortilla. Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt (it’s the perfect substitute for sour cream) and a side of salsa.
• Bell pepper pizza: Cut a bell pepper in half and stuff it with light mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce seasoned with oregano. Top it off with olives, tomatoes, onions and cooked lean ground turkey.

Burst of Energy

Foods high in protein and fiber will keep your family going on a busy day. Try:

• Apples with peanut butter
• Homemade nut mix with almonds, dark chocolate and dried cherries
• Greek yogurt
• Light string cheese
• Boiled egg whites stuffed with avocado

Chocolate Protein Bites

Most kids (and adults) love a little sweet treat in their lunch. Dr. Ancy shared her recipe for protein bites.

1 cup rolled oats


½ cup natural peanut butter


â…“ cup honey


¼ cup dark chocolate chips


1 tbsp. chocolate protein powder


1 tbsp. flax seed (optional)

Mix all of the ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Scoop the mixture into small balls and serve.

Play It Safe

When packing a lunch from home, think about food safety. Slip an ice pack into an insulated lunch bag to keep perishable items cold.

If you’re concerned about your child’s nutritional habits, Meritas Health Pediatrics, opens new tab has a dietitian on-site one day a week to help with education, weight management, and nutrition evaluation and counseling. Make an appointment by calling 816.421.4115.