Here are some kid-tested meals you can feel great about your kids eating for lunch at school this fall!
Chicken and Veggie Skewers: Skewer pieces of grilled or baked chicken along with colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumber slices. Add a small container of paleo-friendly dipping sauce like guacamole or homemade ranch dressing for added flavor.
Turkey and Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps and fill them with slices of nitrate-free turkey, avocado slices, shredded carrots, and cucumber sticks. You can also add a thin spread of almond or cashew butter for some added healthy fat and flavor.
Egg Salad Bento Box: Pack a bento-style lunchbox with boiled egg slices, carrot and celery sticks, and some fresh berries. Include a small container of homemade egg salad made with mashed boiled eggs, paleo-friendly mayonnaise, and diced celery.
Cauliflower "Mac" and Cheese: Make a paleo-friendly version of mac and cheese using steamed cauliflower florets as the "macaroni." Mix them with a creamy sauce made from blended cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and a touch of coconut milk. Add some diced grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.
Fruit and Nut Butter Roll-Ups: Spread almond or cashew butter on a slice of nitrate-free deli meat (such as turkey or ham), then place a banana or apple slice on top. Roll it up and secure with a toothpick. Include some carrot sticks, snap peas, and a small container of mixed nuts or seeds for a balanced meal.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Hash: Sauté diced sweet potatoes and nitrate-free bacon until the sweet potatoes are tender. Add in some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrients. Season with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This dish is a great source of healthy carbs and protein.
Mini Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles: Make mini meatballs using a mixture of ground beef or turkey, grated zucchini, and paleo-friendly seasonings. Serve them with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) and a simple tomato sauce made from fresh or canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
Fruit and Nut Butter Dip: Pack a variety of sliced fruits like apples, pears, and strawberries alongside a small container of almond or cashew butter for dipping. You can also include some paleo-friendly crackers or sliced veggies for extra dipping options.
Crispy Plantain Chips and Guacamole: Slice green plantains into thin rounds, toss them with a bit of coconut oil, and bake until crispy. Pair them with homemade guacamole made from mashed avocados, diced tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. This snack is both crunchy and satisfying.
Paleo Pancake "Sandwiches": Make mini paleo pancakes using a mixture of almond flour, eggs, and a touch of honey. Spread almond or cashew butter between two pancakes to create little sandwich bites. Include some sliced grapes, blueberries, or other fresh fruit on the side.
