Whole Grain Sandwiches: Use whole-grain bread or wraps as a base and fill them with lean protein like turkey or chicken, plenty of veggies, and a smear of hummus or avocado for creaminess.
Fruit Salad: Prepare a colorful fruit salad with a variety of fresh fruits like apples, bananas, berries, and oranges. You can add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer low-fat yogurt with granola and fresh berries. This provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Homemade Trail Mix: Create a custom trail mix by combining nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a few dark chocolate chips for a sweet treat. Be mindful of allergies and school policies regarding nuts.
Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Slice up colorful veggies like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers, and pair them with a small container of hummus for dipping. It's a great way to get kids to eat their veggies.
Quinoa Salad: Cook quinoa and toss it with diced vegetables, beans, and a simple vinaigrette dressing. Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that provides long-lasting energy.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: Eggs are a fantastic source of protein. You can prepare hard-boiled eggs and add a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor. Add a few cherry tomatoes or baby carrots on the side.
Pasta Salad: Make a pasta salad using whole wheat pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a light Italian dressing. You can also add some diced grilled chicken for extra protein.