10 healthy lunchbox ideas for kids
Take inspiration from these healthy, nutritionist-approved lunchbox fillers, from nutritious wraps, to dips and tasty leftovers – they'll keep kids satisfied until dinner.
Make sure your kids are stocked up on healthy nibbles to fuel them through a full day at school with our tasty bites, snacks and wraps that'll help them to stay alert and focused. These satisfying munchies are easy to make, lunchbox-friendly and are based on classic flavour combinations that kids will love.
Our recipes are packable, snackable and full of nutritious ingredients, so whether you're looking for simple snacks to boost a school lunch or inspiration for a wholesome lunchbox meal, we have some great ideas for you to try.
Want even more healthy lunch inspiration? Learn how to pack a healthy lunch and get more advice on sugar, salt and portion sizes with our easy to follow guide. You can also find more kids' recipes for every occasion in our family hub.
1. Chicken, carrot & avocado rolls
Our quick and healthy chicken & avocado rolls are ideal for little lunchboxes, and are made with a grand total of six ingredients. The grated carrot offers beta carotene for healthy eyes, while creamy avocado slices add texture and healthy fats to this simple lunch. Use our healthy wrap ideas to keep things interesting throughout the week.
2. BLT pasta salad
Make our BLT pasta salad with just a handful of ingredients, including fun pasta bows, a smooth and creamy dressing and crisp bacon rasher bits – it provides healthy carbohydrates, protein and veg. If your kids love pasta, have a look at our favourite pasta salad recipes for other twists you can try.
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3. Pasta arrabbiata with aubergine
If you’re tight on time, take the pressure off by filling your kid’s lunchbox with some delicious leftovers – an easy way to save time and money. They can be enjoyed cold, or reheated and packed into an insulated container. Try this easy pasta arrabbiata, which provides a healthy dose of protein, calcium and fibre – you can leave out the chilli flakes if your children prefer a milder taste. Discover more great dinners that make great lunch leftovers to help you keep on top of the week.
4. Panuozzo sandwich
Make your own baguettes and pesto for these pizza-inspired panuozzo sandwiches – they're a filling and healthy lunch. Make the fresh baguettes on the weekend so they'll be ready to go throughout the week, when you can simply add your filling. Check out our collection of baguette recipes for more inventive and healthy filling ideas.
5. Cowboy caviar
Our colourful cowboy caviar is sure to get the kids excited about veg. It's a fresh salad that can be easily adapted for any fussy eaters. Pack with tortilla chips for scooping it up. Have a look at some of our other chopped salad recipes that can be easily adapted for a child's lunchbox.
6. Coronation chickpea sandwich
For a healthy, meat-free sandwich option, make this coronation chickpea sandwich filler and keep in the fridge for up to three days, ready for sandwich assembly. If your child follows a vegetarian or vegan diet, have a look at our high-protein food alternatives for other ways to keep their protein intake up.
7. Avocado hummus & crudités
Pack a small pot of creamy avocado hummus with sweet red and yellow peppers and strips of pitta for a speedy lunchbox snack you can make in minutes. It's an excellent low-calorie snack option, and a great way to encourage your kids to eat the rainbow. Check out our healthy snacks for kids for more ideas on what to include in their lunchbox.
8. Pesto egg muffin bites
Healthy snacks can be hard to come by. If you're struggling to find wholesome options to bulk up your child's lunch, try these mini marvels. These protein-rich pesto egg muffin bites are built for lunchboxes or speedy after-school snacks. Or, try our other savoury muffin recipes.
9. Pitta pockets
Put together these five-minute pitta pockets for a quick fix if you're pressed for time. They're budget-friendly and simple enough for the kids to help make. They're an energy-boosting meal, too, so ideal when the kids are doing exercise or playing sport. Discover more of our quick and easy ways with pitta.
10. Rainbow fruit skewers
These vitamin-packed fruit skewers are a simple, colourful and fun way to get kids to eat more fruit. They'll love helping to make them, too. If it's easier for a packed lunch, just serve the fruit in little pots, making sure to get as many colours in a portion as possible. Why not add a yummy yogurt dip for them, too?
Enjoyed these healthy ideas? Check out our other health guides:
Healthy lunches for kids
Healthy lunch ideas to take to work
Easy vegan lunch ideas
Our ultimate healthy lunch collection
What's your favourite healthy lunchbox fix? Leave a comment below.
This article was last reviewed on 17th August 2023.
All health content on bbcgoodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.
