11 Fresh Back to School Summer Lunches

back to school lunches

Colorful Veggie Wraps

colorful healthy veggie wraps

Colorful Veggie Wraps are a healthy, vibrant, and delicious lunch option perfect for back-to-school summer meals. Packed with fresh vegetables, hummus, and a wrap of your choice, these handheld delights are not only visually appealing but also provide a boost of nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole wheat tortillas 4
Hummus 1 cup
Bell peppers (mixed colors) 1 cup (sliced)
Cucumber 1 (sliced)
Carrot 1 (julienned)
Spinach leaves 2 cups
Avocado 1 (sliced)
Feta cheese (optional) 1/2 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Lay out the whole wheat tortillas flat on a clean surface.
  2. Spread a generous layer of hummus evenly over each tortilla.
  3. Arrange the sliced bell peppers, cucumber, carrots, spinach, and avocado in the center of each tortilla.
  4. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) on top and drizzle with olive oil, and add salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Fold in the sides of the tortillas and roll them tightly from the bottom up to create wraps.
  6. Slice the wraps in half diagonally and serve immediately or pack them for lunch. 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...

DIY Mini Pita Pockets

mini pita pocket recipe
Ingredients Quantity
Mini pita bread 8 pieces
Cooked chicken breast 1 cup (shredded)
Hummus 1/2 cup
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup (halved)
Cucumber 1 (diced)
Spinach leaves 2 cups
Feta cheese (optional) 1/2 cup
Olives (sliced, optional) 1/4 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by prepping all your ingredients: shred the cooked chicken, dice the cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
  2. Warm the mini pita bread slightly in a pan or microwave for easier handling.
  3. Spread a layer of hummus inside each mini pita.
  4. Fill each pita pocket with shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, spinach leaves, and feta cheese (if using).
  5. Add sliced olives (if desired) and drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately, or package them up for a tasty lunch on the go. Enjoy!
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...

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

fruit and yogurt parfaits

Fruit and yogurt parfaits are a delicious and nutritious option for back-to-school summer lunches. These layered treats not only look appealing but are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, making them a perfect snack or light meal for kids and adults alike. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients Quantity
Greek yogurt 2 cups
Granola 1 cup
Mixed berries 1 cup (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Honey (optional) 2 tablespoons
Banana 1 (sliced)
Nuts (optional) 1/4 cup (chopped, e.g., almonds or walnuts)
Mint leaves (optional) For garnish

Instructions:

  1. Start by preparing your ingredients; wash the berries and slice the banana.
  2. In a glass or bowl, layer 1/3 of the Greek yogurt at the bottom.
  3. Add a layer of granola (1/3) followed by a layer of mixed berries and banana slices.
  4. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
  5. Drizzle with honey if desired and sprinkle chopped nuts over the top.
  6. Garnish with a few mint leaves for added freshness. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy!
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...

Quinoa Salad Jars

quinoa salad meal prep

Quinoa salad jars are a versatile and nutritious option perfect for back-to-school summer lunches. These portable salads are packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of colorful vegetables, making them a wholesome and satisfying meal for kids on the go. By layering the ingredients in a jar, you can keep everything fresh and crisp until it’s time to eat.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup (uncooked)
Water 2 cups
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup (halved)
Cucumber 1 (diced)
Bell pepper 1 (diced)
Red onion 1/4 (finely chopped)
Black beans 1 can (drained and rinsed)
Corn 1 cup (canned or frozen)
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro For garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse and cook the quinoa in water according to package instructions; let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black beans, and corn.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper; pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
  4. Layer the quinoa salad into jars, starting with the heavier ingredients on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
  5. Seal the jars and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy chilled!
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

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

turkey cheese roll ups recipe

Turkey and cheese roll-ups are a quick and simple lunch option perfect for back-to-school summer lunches. These protein-packed roll-ups are delicious, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your child’s taste preferences, making them great for a nutritious meal on the go.

Ingredients Quantity
Sliced turkey breast 8 slices
Sliced cheese (cheddar, Swiss, etc.) 8 slices
Tortillas or lettuce leaves 4 large
Cream cheese or hummus 1/2 cup
Baby spinach or lettuce leaves 1 cup
Sliced cucumbers 1/2 cup
Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or hummus over each tortilla.
  2. Layer the turkey slices and cheese slices on top of the spread.
  3. Add a few baby spinach leaves, sliced cucumbers, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Roll each tortilla tightly and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Secure with toothpicks if desired, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
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

Hummus and Veggie Bento Box

colorful veggie hummus lunch

Hummus and veggie bento boxes are a fun and healthy lunch option for back-to-school summer lunches. These colorful and nutritious boxes can be easily assembled and allow kids to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables and creamy hummus for dipping. They are perfect for packing in advance and provide a balanced meal that kids will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Hummus 1 cup
Carrot sticks 1 cup
Cucumber slices 1 cup
Bell pepper strips 1 cup
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup
Snap peas 1 cup
Whole grain pita or crackers 1 package
Olive oil (optional) To drizzle
Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by dividing the hummus into small, portable containers or mini cups.
  2. Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into sticks or slices as needed.
  3. Arrange the vegetable sticks, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas in the bento box next to the hummus.
  4. Include whole grain pita or crackers in the box for dipping.
  5. Drizzle a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper if desired. Close the lid securely and pack for lunch. Enjoy!
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...

Savory Muffin-tin Frittatas

protein packed mini frittatas

Savory muffin-tin frittatas are a delightful and protein-packed lunch option that is perfect for back-to-school summer lunches. These mini frittatas can be customized with your child’s favorite ingredients, are easy to make, and can be made in advance for a quick grab-and-go meal. They’re great for adding variety to lunchboxes while providing essential nutrients to keep kids energized throughout the school day.

Ingredients Quantity
Eggs 6 large
Milk 1/4 cup
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Spinach (chopped) 1 cup
Bell pepper (diced) 1/2 cup
Onion (diced) 1/4 cup
Cheese (shredded) 1/2 cup
Cooked sausage/bacon (optional) 1/2 cup
Olive oil (for greasing) To grease muffin tin

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin with olive oil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper together until well combined.
  3. Stir in the spinach, bell pepper, onion, cheese, and optional cooked sausage or bacon until evenly mixed.
  4. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
  5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the frittatas are puffed and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin.
  6. Pack them in lunchboxes or refrigerate for up to a week, reheating as needed. Enjoy!
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...

Whole Grain Sushi Rolls

nutritious whole grain sushi

Whole grain sushi rolls are a fun and nutritious lunch option that kids will love! These rolls are easy to make, customizable, and packed with healthy ingredients. Using whole grain wraps means they offer additional fiber and nutrients, making them a great addition to any lunchbox!

Ingredients Quantity
Whole grain tortillas 4 large
Cooked rice (brown or white) 2 cups
Cucumber (julienned) 1 medium
Carrot (julienned) 1 medium
Avocado (sliced) 1 large
Cream cheese (or hummus) 1/2 cup
Soy sauce (for dipping) To taste
Sesame seeds (optional) For garnish

Instructions:

  1. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or hummus onto each whole grain tortilla.
  2. Evenly distribute the cooked rice over the tortillas, leaving a small border at the edges.
  3. Layer the cucumber, carrot, and avocado in the center of each tortilla.
  4. Roll the tortilla tightly, starting from one edge and tucking in the filling as you go.
  5. Slice the rolled tortillas into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
  6. Serve with soy sauce for dipping, and pack them in a lunchbox for a delightful meal!
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....

Cheesy Cauliflower Bites

cheesy cauliflower snack bites

Cheesy cauliflower bites are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish that kids will enjoy as part of their back-to-school lunch. Packed with flavor and a crispy texture, these veggie-packed bites are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time for an easy lunch option.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower florets 4 cups
Cheddar cheese (shredded) 1 cup
Parmesan cheese (grated) 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Breadcrumbs (whole grain) 1 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper To taste
Olive oil For drizzling

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, then finely chop or pulse in a food processor to create a rice-like texture.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the chopped cauliflower, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Form the mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Allow to cool before packing them in lunchboxes for a tasty and nutritious treat!
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

Nut Butter and Banana Sandwich

nut butter banana sandwich

Nut Butter and Banana Sandwiches are a simple yet nutritious option for back-to-school lunches that kids will love. This delightful combination of creamy nut butter and sweet banana nestled between slices of whole-grain bread provides a perfect balance of protein and healthy carbohydrates, making it an energizing meal for busy school days.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole grain bread 2 slices
Nut butter (peanut, almond, or your choice) 2 tablespoons
Banana 1 medium
Honey (optional) 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon (optional) 1/4 teaspoon

Instructions:

  1. Spread nut butter evenly onto one slice of bread.
  2. Slice the banana and layer the slices on top of the nut butter.
  3. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle cinnamon if desired.
  4. Top with the second slice of bread and press down gently.
  5. Cut the sandwich in half or quarters for easy packing in lunchboxes. Enjoy!

Caprese Skewers

colorful italian lunch skewers

Caprese Skewers are a revitalizing and colorful lunch option that combines the classic Italian flavors of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. These bite-sized appetizers are not only easy to make but also packed with vitamins and nutrients, making them a perfect addition to any back-to-school lunch. They can be assembled quickly and are fun for kids to eat!

Ingredients Quantity
Cherry tomatoes 1 pint
Fresh mozzarella balls 1 cup
Fresh basil leaves 1 bunch
Balsamic glaze (optional) For drizzling
Olive oil (optional) For drizzling
Salt and pepper (optional) To taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse cherry tomatoes and basil under cold water; pat dry.
  2. On a skewer or toothpick, thread one cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until the skewer is filled.
  3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil, if desired, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Arrange the skewers on a plate or in a lunchbox, and enjoy!

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.