11 Back to School Lunches for High School Students

high school lunch ideas

Mediterranean Wraps

mediterranean veggie wraps recipe

Mediterranean wraps are a delicious and nutritious option for high school students looking for a satisfying lunch that can be easily packed and enjoyed on-the-go. These wraps are filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making them a great choice to fuel busy days. With fresh veggies, protein-packed hummus, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, Mediterranean wraps offer a balanced meal that is both tasty and healthy.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole grain wraps 2
Hummus 1/2 cup
Cucumber 1, thinly sliced
Red bell pepper 1, thinly sliced
Tomato 1, thinly sliced
Mixed greens 1 cup
Feta cheese 1/4 cup, crumbled
Kalamata olives 1/4 cup, pitted and sliced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Spread a layer of hummus evenly on each whole grain wrap.
  2. Layer cucumber, red bell pepper, tomato, mixed greens, feta cheese, and olives on top of the hummus.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
  4. Roll up each wrap tightly, then slice in half for easier eating.
  5. Pack in a lunch container and enjoy!
Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
  • Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
  • 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

Quinoa Salad Bowls

quinoa salad bowls recipe

Quinoa salad bowls are a versatile and hearty lunch option perfect for high school students. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a light dressing, these bowls are not only satisfying but also offer a variety of nutrients. They are easy to prepare in advance and can be customized based on individual preferences, making them an excellent choice for busy school days.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup, halved
Cucumber 1, diced
Bell pepper 1, diced
Red onion 1/2, finely chopped
Feta cheese 1/2 cup, crumbled
Fresh parsley 1/4 cup, chopped
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and combine it with water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed.
  2. Allow quinoa to cool, then fluff it with a fork in a large bowl.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley to the quinoa.
  4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then season with salt and pepper.
  5. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve in bowls or store in airtight containers for lunch.
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
  • Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
  • Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels

turkey cheese pinwheel recipe

Turkey and cheese pinwheels are a fun and easy-to-make lunch option for high school students. These snacks are packed with protein and can be made ahead of time, allowing students to grab a tasty bite on the go. With their colorful presentation and delicious flavor, turkey and cheese pinwheels are sure to be a hit during lunchtime.

Ingredients Quantity
Tortilla wraps 4 large
Sliced turkey breast 8 ounces
Cheese slices (e.g., cheddar or Swiss) 4 slices
Lettuce leaves 4 leaves
Cream cheese 1/2 cup
Mustard (optional) To taste
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each tortilla wrap.
  2. Layer sliced turkey breast, cheese slices, and lettuce on top of the cream cheese.
  3. If desired, add a thin layer of mustard and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Roll the tortilla tightly, starting from one edge, to form a pinwheel shape.
  5. Slice the rolled tortilla into 1-inch pieces and secure with toothpicks if needed. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for lunch.
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...
  • 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
  • ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
  • ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

Veggies and Hummus Snack Packs

nutritious veggie snack packs

Veggies and hummus snack packs are a nutritious and satisfying lunch option that high school students can enjoy during their busy day. These colorful snack packs are packed with vitamins and fiber-rich veggies, paired with creamy hummus for dipping, making them a healthy and delicious choice that’s easy to prepare and even easier to eat on the go.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrot sticks 2 medium
Celery sticks 2 medium
Cucumber slices 1 medium
Bell pepper (any color) 1 medium
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup
Hummus 1 cup
Small container or bento box 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. Wash and cut the carrot, celery, cucumber, and bell pepper into snack-sized pieces.
  2. Arrange the veggies in a small container or bento box, separating them by type for a colorful presentation.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes to the container alongside the cut veggies.
  4. Serve with a portion of hummus in a small compartment of the container for dipping.
  5. Cover and refrigerate until ready to pack for lunch.
Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
  • Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
  • Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

hearty chicken caesar pasta salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a revitalizing and hearty dish that combines tender pasta with grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and the distinctive flavors of Caesar dressing. This salad is perfect for high school lunches as it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, filling, and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients Quantity
Rotini or fusilli pasta 2 cups
Grilled chicken breast, diced 1 cup
Romaine lettuce, chopped 2 cups
Caesar dressing ½ cup
Parmesan cheese, grated ¼ cup
Croutons ½ cup
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced grilled chicken, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and Caesar dressing; mix well.
  3. Add grated Parmesan cheese and croutons, tossing gently to combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately or pack in a container to refrigerate until lunch.
Sale
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...
  • 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
  • Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
  • Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

DIY Taco Lunchables

diy customizable taco lunchables

DIY Taco Lunchables are a fun and customizable meal option for high school students that brings the fiesta to lunchtime. These easy-to-assemble taco kits allow students to build their own tacos, making lunchtime enjoyable while also being nutritious. Packed with flavor and healthy ingredients, DIY Taco Lunchables are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Mini tortillas 8
Ground beef or turkey, cooked 1 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup
Lettuce, shredded 1 cup
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Salsa ½ cup
Sour cream ½ cup
Avocado, sliced 1
Optional toppings (jalapeños, olives) To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Prepare the ground beef or turkey by cooking it until fully brown; season to preference.
  2. Arrange the mini tortillas, cooked meat, shredded cheese, lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, and avocado in a container.
  3. Add any optional toppings for extra flavor.
  4. Pack the lunch for easy assembly at school—just grab a tortilla and fill it with your favorite toppings!
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...
  • 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
  • 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
  • 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

Caprese Skewers

fresh and healthy skewers

Caprese Skewers are a delightful and revitalizing lunch option for high school students. These simple yet elegant skewers combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze for an extra zing. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also provide a healthy dose of protein and vitamins, making them a perfect grab-and-go lunch option.

Ingredients Quantity
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup
Fresh mozzarella balls 1 cup
Fresh basil leaves 1 cup
Balsamic glaze To taste
Olive oil To taste
Salt and pepper To taste
Skewers 6-8

Cooking Steps:

  1. On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball, and then a basil leaf.
  2. Repeat this process until the skewer is filled, leaving space at the ends for easy handling.
  3. Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pack the skewers in a container for an easy, nutritious lunch option that can be enjoyed cold!
Sale
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...
  • Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
  • Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
  • Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups

peanut butter banana roll ups

Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups are an easy, nutritious, and delicious lunch option for high school students. This quick-to-prepare dish consists of whole grain tortillas spread with creamy peanut butter, filled with ripe banana, and rolled up for a delightful bite-sized treat. Perfect for busy days, these roll-ups are both satisfying and energizing, making them an ideal grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole grain tortillas 2
Peanut butter 4 tablespoons
Ripe bananas 2
Honey (optional) To taste
Cinnamon (optional) To taste
Sliced almonds (optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Spread 2 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly over each tortilla.
  2. Place one banana on each tortilla and roll it tightly.
  3. If desired, drizzle honey, sprinkle cinnamon, and add sliced almonds on top of the banana before rolling.
  4. Slice the rolled tortillas into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
  5. Pack the roll-ups in a container for a quick and healthy lunch option!
Sale
Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...
  • Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
  • Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

Mini Pita Pockets

nutritious customizable lunch pockets

Mini Pita Pockets are a fun and versatile lunch option perfect for high school students. These bite-sized pockets are packed with nutritious fillings, including proteins, veggies, and spreads, making them a balanced meal that is easy to customize for different tastes and dietary preferences. They’re an excellent choice for students looking to fuel their busy school days!

Ingredients Quantity
Mini whole wheat pitas 4
Hummus 1/2 cup
Sliced cucumber 1 cup
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Grated carrots 1/2 cup
Cooked chicken or turkey (optional) 1 cup
Lettuce or spinach 1 cup
Feta cheese (optional) 1/4 cup
Olive oil (optional) To drizzle
Salt and pepper to taste To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cut the mini pitas in half to create pockets.
  2. Spread a layer of hummus inside each pita half.
  3. Fill each pocket with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, grated carrots, and cooked chicken or turkey if desired.
  4. Add lettuce or spinach, and sprinkle feta cheese on top if using.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pack the mini pita pockets in a container for a tasty and nutritious lunch!
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...
  • 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
  • Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
  • Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

delicious and nutritious parfaits

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits are a delicious and nutritious lunch option for high school students, combining layers of creamy yogurt, fresh fruits, and crunchy granola. This easy-to-make dish can be customized with various fruits and flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings. It’s a great way to refuel and enjoy a balanced meal packed with vitamins, protein, and fiber!

Ingredients Quantity
Greek yogurt 2 cups
Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) 2 cups
Granola 1 cup
Honey or maple syrup (optional) To drizzle
Chia seeds (optional) 2 tablespoons
Nuts (optional) 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a clear glass or bowl, start by adding a layer of Greek yogurt at the bottom.
  2. Next, add a layer of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
  3. Sprinkle a layer of granola over the fruit.
  4. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass or bowl, finishing with a layer of yogurt and berries.
  5. Drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top if desired, and sprinkle with chia seeds or nuts for added crunch.
  6. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to pack in a lunchbox!

Energy Bites for a Sweet Treat

no bake energy snack bites

Energy Bites are a delightful, no-bake snack that provide a great source of energy for high school students. These small, sweet treats are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nut butter, and honey, making them perfect for a quick grab-and-go option for lunch boxes or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Customize with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, seeds, or dried fruit for a nutritious boost!

Ingredients Quantity
Rolled oats 1 cup
Nut butter (peanut or almond) 1/2 cup
Honey 1/3 cup
Chocolate chips 1/2 cup
Chia seeds (optional) 2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Sea salt 1 pinch

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nut butter, honey, chocolate chips, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
  2. Mix the ingredients until well combined and the mixture holds together.
  3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls with your hands.
  4. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before packing them in your lunchbox or enjoying them!

Amazon disclaimer.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow:
Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.