Back-to-school season is here, and if you are looking to craft enticing and nutritious lunchbox ideas for your kids then these creative vegetarian, vegan or plant based ideas are for you. Today, let's dive into a world of creative and wholesome back-to-school lunchbox ideas that perfectly balance flavor, variety, and health. We have got you covered from our favorite sushi recipes, noodles and pasta, rice and curries, and vegetable sides that the kids won't get bored of.
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100 Back to School Lunchbox Ideas
100 creative and wholesome back-to-school lunchbox ideas that perfectly balance flavor, variety, and health. We have got you covered from our favorite sushi recipes, noodles and pasta, rice and curries, wraps and sandwiches and vegetable sides that the kids won't get bored of.
Elevate your school lunch game with our irresistible healthy vegan stir-fry noodles. Packed with colorful veggies, tofu and tantalizing flavors, these plant-powered noodles are a convenient and delicious way to keep your kids energized throughout the day. Pack these in a Thermos.
Introduce a touch of culinary excitement to your child's school lunchbox with our avocado sushi rolls. These delectable rolls feature creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, offering a delightful and nutritious twist on traditional sushi that your kids will love to devour.
Add a burst of savory delight to your child's lunchtime with our vegan teriyaki noodles. Packed with wholesome ingredients and irresistibly flavorful teriyaki sauce, these noodles offer a convenient and satisfying option that will keep your little one eagerly reaching for their lunchbox. Pack in a Thermos.
Elevate your child's lunchbox with the vibrant flavors of our fresh vegan Vietnamese spring rolls. Packed with crisp veggies, fragrant herbs, and tofu, these delightful rolls are a refreshing and wholesome choice that brings the taste of Vietnam to their lunchtime experience.
These vegan sushi rolls are always a hit. The perfect addition to their school lunch menu. Filled with a colorful array of veggies and plant-based ingredients, these sushi rolls offer a delightful and nutritious way to keep them satisfied and excited during their day.
Our vegan Korean spicy gochujang noodles are bursting with flavors and are ready in 15 minutes. Packed with veggies, infused with the bold and spicy notes of gochujang, these noodles offer a zesty kick while providing a hearty and satisfying meal that will keep them eagerly anticipating lunchtime. Pack in a Thermos.
Our kids love the irresistible flavors of tis vegan tofu pad Thai noodles, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These noodles feature tender tofu, crunchy vegetables, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory, offering a mouthwatering and nutritious option. Pack in a Thermos.
Spice up your child's lunchtime routine with our chipotle sofritas – a zesty and protein-packed addition to their school lunch. Made with flavorful tofu crumbles simmered in smoky chipotle sauce, these sofritas are a delicious and satisfying option that will have them eagerly reaching for their lunchbox.
Discover the perfect way to introduce an exotic and wholesome twist to your child's lunch with our vegan Panang curry. Bursting with rich coconut milk, aromatic spices, and colorful veggies, this flavorful dish promises a satisfying and nutritious lunch that will leave both you and your kid excited for lunchtime.
The aromatic delights of our Thai green curry with rice, will definitely enhance your kids lunch time. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a perfect blend of spices, this flavorful dish ensures a balanced and exciting lunch that will keep them fueled and engaged throughout the school day. Pack in a Thermos.
Our Thai Massaman curry with rice, is an exquisite blend of creamy coconut milk, tender potatoes, and aromatic spices guarantees a flavorful and nourishing lunch that will broaden their palate and keep them eagerly anticipating lunchtime.
Add a delightful crunch to your child's lunch with our crispy air-fryer tofu - a protein-packed side that's both delicious and nutritious. This tofu offers a wholesome alternative to traditional snacks, ensuring your little one enjoys a satisfying lunch that's as wholesome as it is tasty.
Our King Pao Tofu is a delightful and protein-rich lunch that's sure to impress. Packed with a harmonious blend of tofu, vegetables, and zesty sauce, this dish adds a tantalizing twist to their lunch and ensures they stay energized throughout the school day.
Our Indo-Chinese vegetarian Hakka noodles, are packed with vibrant veggies and savory seasonings, offer a wholesome yet exciting lunch option that will have your little one eagerly diving into their lunchbox. Pack in a Thermos.
Gobi Manchurian are delectable cauliflower bites, coated in a flavorful sauce, bring a fusion of textures and tastes to the lunchbox, ensuring a unique and satisfying meal that your little one will love to enjoy at school.
The enticing flavors of our spicy Jollof rice are bursting with aromatic spices and a delicious blend of ingredients, this dish offers a captivating and satisfying lunch that will transport their taste buds on a flavorful journey during their school day.
Add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your child's lunchbox with our easy Spanish rice. With its colorful blend of veggies and aromatic seasonings, this dish promises a simple yet delectable lunch that will remind them of sunny Spanish flavors as they enjoy it at school.
The wholesome goodness of our peas pulav is bursting with fragrant basmati rice, tender peas, and a medley of aromatic spices, this dish offers a comforting and nutritious option that will surely bring a smile to their face as they indulge in a delightful lunch at school.
Nourish your child's day with the goodness of our nutritious spinach and chickpea rice. Packed with vibrant flavors, protein-rich chickpeas, and vitamin-packed spinach, this dish offers a balanced and satisfying lunch that ensures your little one's energy levels stay up throughout their school day.
Our nutritious mushroom rice, is a delightful blend of flavors and health benefits. Packed with earthy mushrooms and wholesome ingredients, this dish offers a satisfying and nourishing option.
Make your child's lunch both nutritious and exciting with our vegetable quinoa pilaf. Brimming with colorful veggies and protein-packed quinoa, this dish ensures a wholesome lunch that will keep them energized and ready to take on the school day with gusto.
A flavorful fusion of textures and tastes. Packed with savory teriyaki sauce, crisp vegetables, and aromatic rice, this dish promises a delicious and satisfying lunch that will leave them eagerly looking forward to their midday meal.
Bursting with fragrant spices, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic basmati rice, this dish offers a flavorful and nourishing lunch that will transport their taste buds on a journey of delectable Indian flavors.
Combining the goodness of protein-rich quinoa, colorful veggies, and the sweetness of pineapple, this dish offers a unique and delightful lunch option that will keep them both satisfied and intrigued
Streamline your morning routine and delight your child's taste buds with our Instant Pot fried rice with garlic. This quick and flavorful dish combines aromatic garlic, a medley of veggies, and perfectly cooked rice, ensuring a convenient and satisfying lunch.
Fused with fragrant Thai basil, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish promises a quick, delicious, and satisfying lunch.
Bursting with the sweetness of pineapple, colorful veggies, and aromatic seasonings, this dish offers a quick and flavorful lunch even for picky eaters.
Jamaican rice and peas will take out all the morning stress. Ready in less than 30 minutes, your kid can enjoy a filling meal.
This fluffy yellow rice is an amazingly flavorful way to serve an easy side dish. It compliments most proteins including tofu and dal nicely, which allows you to make a full meal.
Loaded with fresh flavors from crisp cilantro, zesty hot peppers, and bright lime juice and packed with wholesome spinach, this rice is one everyone is sure to love!
Instant Pot Vegan Burrito bowl comes to the rescue when time is crunched . Its a versatile dish and you can add whatever veggies and proteins and toppings to meet your childs tastebuds.
Infused with the goodness of Turmeric and Garlic this rice super easy to make in your pressure cooker or Instant Pot. No sticky bottom or mushy rice, each grain is separate. Ready in 6 minutes, this fail proof recipe is a must try.
Mushroom Risotto - quick, easy & healthy, yes please!!! If you think making Risotto takes forever, enjoy this warm comforting bowl of rich and creamy Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto minus all the stirring and babysitting. Ready in less than 20 minutes.
Coconut Rice with Cilantro - This vegan Coconut Rice recipe with cilantro is a one-pot recipe where you marry flavors of freshly grated coconut, garlic and cilantro. Easy side or relish it as is. Vegan. Gluten-Free. Dairy-Free. Lunchbox Option. Under 30 minutes.
Instant pot Mexican Fiesta Rice - If you’re looking for a super quick, simple, and delicious Mexican Rice recipe -you've got to try this one-pot dish. That means a whole lot less clean-up is involved :) An easy versatile vegetarian dish. This fiesta rice is another DUMP and PUSH START Instant Pot recipe.
These 10 minute crispy air fryer broccoli florets are the perfect snack, side, or addition to your lunchbox. This tasty recipe will get even the pickiest kids to devour their veggies! Plus, this healthy dish comes together in less than 10 minutes making it a great snack or a last minute side to serve with dinner.
Packed with a medley of fresh vegetables and tossed in a savory sauce, this dish offers a delicious and wholesome lunch that will keep them energized and satisfied throughout their school day.
Our kids love the the creamy goodness of tis 10-minute mushroom pasta. With its rich flavors and quick preparation, this dish offers a delightful and convenient lunch option that will keep them satisfied and focused during their school day.
Treat your child to the simple comfort of our 10-minute Instant Pot buttered noodles for their school lunch. With its quick preparation and classic flavors, this dish provides a fuss-free yet delicious option that will bring a smile to their face as they enjoy a warm and satisfying meal at school.
Prepare a delicious serving of our Gigi Hadid's pasta to treat your child's tastebuds.
Infuse zesty delight into your school day by packing a portion of lemon garlic pasta, its refreshing flavors nestled thoughtfully in a lunch container. A burst of tangy zest and savory garlic awaits, making lunchtime truly enjoyable.
A serving of creamy broccoli pasta, its velvety richness and wholesome broccoli florets is sure to impress your child. A delightful blend of comfort and nutrition awaits, ensuring a satisfying midday meal.
Savor the love and effort put into crafting homemade ravioli by carefully packing these delectable parcels into your lunch container, ready to bring comfort and flavor to your school day. Each tender bite offers a taste of home-cooked goodness that's sure to make their lunch break special.
Tender cabbage, peas and hearty noodles come together to create a satisfying and wholesome school meal.
Elevate simplicity with a pack of 4-ingredient cacio e pepe, where pasta, cheese, pepper, and butter unite in a lunch container to offer a classic and irresistible school lunch option. Experience the timeless combination of flavors that's both easy to enjoy and perfect for a satisfying midday meal.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of pesto cavatappi as you pack this aromatic dish in a lunch container, ensuring a burst of freshness and taste in every bite during your school day. The harmonious blend of pesto and twisted pasta promises a deliciously fulfilling lunchtime treat.
The simple elegance of spaghetti aglio e olio, brings the harmonious flavors of garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes to their midday meal. They will enjoy a taste of Italy's culinary charm as they savor each delectable strand of pasta.
For a convenient and flavorful school lunch, pack the Instant Pot spaghetti that's been expertly cooked to perfection, complete with a savory sauce that's absorbed into every noodle. The Instant Pot's magic ensures a hassle-free meal, offering both taste and efficiency in your kids lunchtime experience.
Our kids love the burst of garlicky goodness when we pack these noodles for them. Ready in the Instant Pot in just a few minutes, these garlic noodles where tender strands of pasta are infused with rich flavors are an absolute hit. Pair them with the side our of air fryer broccoli .
Delight your kids with a wholesome and colorful lunch by packing penne pomodoro pasta, featuring vibrant tomato sauce and perfectly cooked penne noodles. The familiar flavors of this classic dish are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to their school day.
Treat your kids to a burst of exotic flavors by packing Thai peanut curry with rice for their school lunch, ensuring a delightful blend of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy notes in a convenient lunch container.
Infuse a touch of zest into your kids' school lunch by packing Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice, a flavorful side that brings a hint of tangy freshness to their meal in a convenient lunch container. The aromatic blend of cilantro and lime will add a vibrant twist to their lunchtime experience.
Make your kids' school lunch a refreshing delight by packing an easy summer pasta salad, featuring colorful veggies and light dressing in a convenient lunch container. This vibrant and nutritious option ensures they enjoy a taste of the season with every bite, making lunchtime a breeze.
Elevate your kids' school lunch with a nutritious twist by packing creamy butternut squash mac and cheese, a comforting blend of velvety cheese sauce and wholesome squash in a convenient lunch container. This wholesome dish adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, making lunch both delicious and nourishing.
A burst of Indian flavors for your kids' school lunch by packing khatta dhokla, a tangy and fluffy steamed snack thoughtfully placed in a lunch container. The combination of sourness and spongy texture will make their lunchtime experience unique and enjoyable.
Add a nutritious twist to your kids' school lunch by packing vegan spaghetti with lentils, where tender pasta and protein-packed lentils come together in a flavorful and wholesome combination, neatly placed in a lunch container. This plant-powered dish ensures a satisfying and nourishing meal that will keep them energized throughout the school day.
Treat your kids to a taste of South India with a packed lunch of semiya upma, a flavorful and hearty dish made from vermicelli and aromatic spices, carefully placed in a lunch container. The delightful mix of textures and flavors promises to make their school lunchtime both exciting and satisfying.
Create a classic and comforting school lunch by packing a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich, where gooey melted cheese is nestled between golden-brown slices of bread in a lunch container. This timeless favorite ensures a simple yet satisfying meal that will bring a smile to your kids' faces.
Take the traditional PB&J sandwich to next level by packing an air-fried version for your kids' school lunch, where warm, crispy bread envelops the creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly in a lunch container.
A comforting and hearty lunch by packing creamy mashed red potatoes, a velvety side dish that's sure to please their taste buds, thoughtfully placed in a lunch container. The smooth texture and buttery flavor of these potatoes will make for a satisfying addition to their school day.
Delight your kids with a sweet treat in their school lunch by packing Nutella cookies, a delightful combination of rich chocolate-hazelnut spread and chewy cookie goodness, neatly placed in a snack container. These scrumptious cookies will add a touch of indulgence to their day and make snack time extra special.
Add a tangy twist to your kids' school lunch by packing dill pickle pasta salad, a unique combination of pickles, pasta, and creamy dressing in a lunch container. The playful flavors and textures of this dish promise a memorable and delicious lunchtime experience.
Surprise your kids with a delightful and nutritious school lunch by packing chocolate hummus paired with crackers and fresh fruit, creating a balanced and flavorful snack combination in a lunch container. The rich and creamy chocolate hummus, along with the crunch of crackers and the sweetness of fruit, ensures a satisfying and enjoyable lunchtime treat.
The kids will enjoy these tender cauliflower slices that are seasoned and roasted to perfection. The flavorful and satisfying texture of this dish ensures a lunchtime experience that's both wholesome and delicious.
Nutritious and crispy delights thse sweet potatoes are a wholesome snack to satisfy the crunch the kids want at mwal time.
Add a savory twist to your kids' school lunch by packing roasted baby potatoes, where bite-sized spuds are seasoned and roasted to perfection, thoughtfully placed in a lunch container. These crispy and flavorful potatoes make for a satisfying and delicious addition to their lunchtime experience.
Add a fun and crunchy element to your kids' school lunch by packing pretzel bites, bite-sized and perfectly seasoned for a delightful snack, neatly placed in a lunch container. These addictive little treats will make their lunchtime a playful and tasty adventure.
Elevate your kids' school lunch with a nutritious twist by packing air-fried roasted cauliflower, where tender florets are seasoned and crisped to perfection, thoughtfully placed in a lunch container. This flavorful and wholesome option promises a satisfying and delicious lunchtime treat.
Add a delicious and nutritious touch to your kids' school lunch by packing zucchini fritters, where crispy and flavorful patties are tucked into a lunch container. These vegetable-packed fritters are a tasty way to introduce them to wholesome ingredients and make lunchtime enjoyable.
Spice up your kids' school lunch with Tex-Mex flautas, rolled tortillas filled with flavorful ingredients, neatly placed in a lunch container. These crispy delights bring a touch of excitement to lunchtime, offering a fusion of flavors that's sure to satisfy their taste buds.
Air-fried zucchini slices, are a nutritious side option that's both flavorful and fun, thoughtfully placed in a lunch container. These zucchini fries offer a satisfying crunch and are a great way to introduce them to wholesome veggies in a tasty way.
Surprise your kids with these flavorful potato patties, for their school. These crispy and savory bites will add a delightful twist to their meal, making lunchtime a delicious adventure.
Add a touch of holiday delight to your kids' school lunch by packing Elisen Lebkuchen cookies, a traditional German treat with rich flavors. These spiced and glazed cookies will bring warmth and sweetness to their meal, making lunchtime a festive experience.
Make lunchtime exciting for your kids by packing pizza rolls, bite-sized delights filled with cheesy goodness and savory toppings, neatly placed in a lunch container. These mini pizza bites offer a fun twist on a classic favorite, ensuring a delicious and satisfying lunch at school.
Infuse your kids' school lunch with a burst of flavor by packing samosas, crispy pastry pockets filled with savory goodness. These delightful bites offer a taste of Indian cuisine that's sure to make lunchtime a tasty adventure.
Add a touch of summer to your kids' school lunch by packing corn on the cob, a simple and nutritious treat that's neatly placed in a lunch container. The sweet and juicy kernels promise a refreshing and wholesome addition to their meal, making lunchtime a delightful experience.
Tender carrot sticks are transformed into crispy bites of flavor. These delightful carrot fries provide a fun and nutritious side option that will make lunchtime both enjoyable and nourishing.
Creating a balanced and flavorful side option by packing this whole some hummus with fresh vegetables, crackers and pita bread.
A nutritious touch by packing air-fried asparagus, where tender spears become delightfully crisp. These flavorful veggie fries offer a fun way to introduce greens into their meal.
Flavorful chickpea patties and fresh veggies are tucked into soft wraps, These tasty and portable wraps offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, ensuring a satisfying and delicious school lunch experience. Pack the sauces on the side.
Infuse a Middle Eastern twist into your kids' school lunch by packing falafel, crispy and flavorful chickpea patties, neatly placed in a lunch container. These protein-packed bites offer a fun and tasty way to introduce them to global cuisine, making lunchtime a flavorful adventure.
Add a wholesome and sweet touch to your kids' school lunch by packing vegan peanut butter oatmeal cookies, a delicious treat made with plant-based ingredients. These chewy and nutty cookies offer a guilt-free indulgence that will make lunchtime even more enjoyable.
If you kids like spicy food, Spice up your kids' school lunch with these spicy and tangy potato-filled buns promise a unique and exciting lunchtime experience.
Marinated paneer cubes are grilled to perfection. Our kids love these flavorful and protein-rich bites.
Butternut squash risotto, a creamy and flavorful dish made with tender rice and wholesome squash. Kids love the comforting blend of textures and flavors.
Add a southwestern flair to your kids' school lunch with packed southwest rolls, where tortillas are filled with a medley of savory ingredients, neatly placed in a lunch container. These flavorful and portable rolls promise a tasty adventure, making lunchtime both exciting and delicious.
Give your kids' school lunch a zesty twist by packing tofu buffalo bites, where crispy tofu cubes are coated in tangy buffalo sauce. These flavorful bites offer a protein-packed option that's sure to make lunchtime a savory and enjoyable experience.
Give those Teas sandwiches a make over. Our tea sandwiches are layered with multiple chutneys and fresh vegetables, making them perfect for a delicious and delightful afternoon bite.
Delight both taste buds and health-conscious choices with Korean fried cauliflower bites – a fusion of flavors and textures. These crispy, bite-sized florets are coated in a tantalizing blend of Korean-inspired spices and sauces, delivering a punch of umami and a touch of heat.
This delectable dish features a medley of spiced vegetables, simmered to perfection and served with soft buttery pav buns. Packed with nutrients and a burst of Indian spices, Pav Bhaji adds a touch of culinary adventure to the school lunch box
These fluffy, fermented rice cakes paired with aromatic lentil stew create a balanced and nutritious meal. Bursting with flavors and packed with protein, this traditional dish offers a wholesome yet exciting addition to the lunchtime routine.
Transform leftover rice and colorful vegetables into delectable rice cakes, perfect for the school lunch box. These convenient and eco-friendly treats are not only a creative way to reduce food waste but also a delightful combination of textures and flavors. With a crispy exterior and a savory interior, these rice cakes offer a tasty and nutritious option that's easy to eat on the go, making lunchtime both exciting and sustainable.
Bulgur Khichdi, a balanced blend of bulgur wheat and vegetables. This comforting dish, infused with aromatic spices, provides a hearty source of fiber and protein. Its wholesome ingredients and gentle flavors make Bulgur Khichdi a smart and satisfying choice, ensuring a fulfilling and culturally diverse meal that fuels young minds throughout the day.
This gentle and nourishing dish, crafted from a harmonious mix of rice, lentils, and warming spices, promotes balance and well-being. With its easy-to-digest nature and revitalizing qualities, Ayurvedic Kitchari offers a holistic meal that supports both body and mind.
Add a playful twist to the school lunch box with crispy Corn Nuggets. These golden bites, made from sweet corn kernels and a seasoned coating, provide a delightful combination of crunch and flavor. Packed with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying texture,
This aromatic dish, brimming with a medley of tender vegetables and a creamy coconut-based sauce, offers a taste of Indian cuisine's depth and warmth. Packed with nutrients and a delicate blend of spices, Vegetable Korma presents a wholesome and flavorful option that brings a touch of culinary diversity to lunchtime.
Introduce a dose of protein-packed delight to the school lunch box with Paneer Bhurji. This Indian favorite features crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked with aromatic spices and vegetables, creating a savory and satisfying medley. With its wholesome and flavorful profile, Paneer Bhurji offers a nourishing yet exciting option that's sure to captivate taste buds and provide the energy needed for a productive school day.
This Italian Lentil Soup has raving reviews and is a must try. A hearty nutritious bowl of plant based powerhouse made with lots of veggies, lentils, herbs and seasonings. Super easy to make & ready in 15 minutes. Vegan, Gluten-Free, Oil-Free. Meal-Prep and Freezer Meal Option. Instant Pot and Stove top recipe included.
Another popular soup on thee blog. Our Minestrone Soup is a perfect family-friendly meal hearty enough for even the biggest appetites. Its the easiest, and best Instant Pot Minestrone Soup recipe ever and full of protein-packed beans and loaded with veggies. This soup is filling comfort food in a bowl.
Yet another hit from the blog. Our Quinoa vegetable soup is packed with veggies, delicious flavors and the goodness of quinoa. Try it to beleve it!
So do you know which one you will try first? Or better yet show these ideas to your kids and plan a weekly menu with them like we do.
When you try these lunchbox ideas, don’t forget to come back and leave your feedback and star rating. We will be THRILLED if you would take a picture and share it on Instagram.
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