I swore after last June that I would NEVER make a sandwich again. Ever.
Then, this week I swore I would NEVER stare into the fridge looking for snack inspiration again. They are just always hungry!
So in a bid to become a more organised mother and all round better person, I have compiled a list of some seriously creative lunch box inspiration that won't bore you to death.
1. Break out the colour
2. Selection box
3. Cheese and Tomato Lollipops
4. Cucumber batons
5. Sneak in some veggies
Channel your child's inner rainbow (we all have one!) with this healthy option. Wrap fresh salmon darnes in a multigrain wrap, add some creamy soft cheese and add some baby leaf salad for extra crunch. I like to always include as much fruit or veg as possible, so adding a little punnet of raspberries or some baby carrot batons are a great idea.
Top Tip: To make your own yummy dip, mix Greek style yoghurt with finely chopped scallions and soft cream cheese.
We all love a good selection box but this is the healthy version. A lunchbox filled with a mix of a few different things will keep your child's interest and again, means you don't have to resort to sandwiches (which are fine and lovely but we are trying to think outside of the lunch box!)
Simply put a dollop of hummus into a small container. In another, place some cooked chicken pieces and then fill the rest of the lunchbox with a scattering of goodness like green grapes, yoghurt coated rice cakes and cucumber pieces to dip.
These beauties are quick, simple and delicious. They are also really popular in our house. Create your own easy-to-make peas and blueberry salad and add it to your child's lunchbox. You can pair it with a nice crusty roll with a hard-boiled egg and rocket leaves with mayonnaise and perhaps a piece of fruit. Empty lunch boxes all around!
The beauty of this is that you can mix your child's favourite veggies into any meal. Baby corn sticks are very popular in our house. I like to cut up some fruit for the children, rather than give them a whole piece. They love pear pieces but nothing trumps strawberries. The Greek style yoghurt topped with granola clusters are another favourite and a sweet (healthy) treat. You've got this, mums!
The old faithful carrot salad has saved many an evening meal in our house. Why not add it to those lunch boxes to make sure your little one is getting a good solid meal in the middle of their day. You can even sneak in some other greens like broccoli if you are brave enough. Jazz it up with a nice ham and cheese roll with butterhead lettuce. Delicious.
And if all else fails, you can resort to novelty lunch box fun - cut sandwiches into cute star shapes or do roll-ups to add some adventure to their (and your) day! This mama means business.
