Wholesome Winter Packed Lunch Ideas for Kids
As the chilly winter days roll in, keeping kids warm and nourished becomes a top priority. Packed lunches are a fantastic way to ensure they have the energy and nutrients they need to thrive throughout the day. Here are some creative and nutritious winter packed lunch ideas that will keep your little ones satisfied and full of vitality.
1. Hearty Soups:
Nothing warms the body and soul quite like a hearty soup. Prepare a thermos filled with nutritious soups like vegetable, chicken noodle, or lentil soup. Pair it with some whole-grain crackers or a slice of crusty bread for a fulfilling meal that will keep them warm and satisfied. iKids offer a selection of cups and bottles for storing liquid lunches.
2. DIY Lunchable:
Create a DIY lunchable with wholesome ingredients like whole-grain crackers, sliced cheese, lean turkey or chicken breast, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. This customizable lunch option allows kids to mix and match their favourite flavours while providing essential nutrients to fuel their day.
3. Warm Pasta Salad:
Prepare a warm pasta salad using whole-grain pasta, roasted vegetables, and a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Toss the ingredients in a flavourful dressing and pack it in a thermos to keep it warm until lunchtime. This delicious and nutritious dish will appeal to kids and provide them with essential carbohydrates and protein to keep them energized.
4. Bento Boxes:
Bento boxes are a fun and creative way to pack a balanced lunch for kids. Fill compartments with a variety of winter-themed foods such as snowflake-shaped sandwiches, cheese cubes, sliced fruits like apples or pears, baby carrots with hummus, and a sweet treat like yogurt-covered pretzels or a piece of dark chocolate.
5. Savory Muffins:
Bake savoury muffins filled with nutritious ingredients like spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. These handheld delights are perfect for packed lunches and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a side of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a satisfying and balanced meal.
6. Toasted Sandwiches:
Warm up your child's lunchtime with a delicious toasted sandwich. Fill whole-grain bread with their favourite fillings such as grilled cheese with tomato soup for dipping, turkey and cranberry sauce, or a classic ham and cheese melt. Wrap the sandwich in foil to keep it warm until lunchtime.
7. Quinoa Salad:
Whip up a nutritious quinoa salad loaded with winter vegetables like roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and kale. Add in some protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or grilled tofu for extra sustenance. Drizzle with a zesty vinaigrette and pack it in a portable container for a wholesome and filling lunch option.
Check out this awesome cutlery set for kids, it fits perfectly into a lunch bag or backpack.
8. Warm Oatmeal Jars:
For a comforting and nutritious lunch, prepare warm oatmeal jars filled with rolled oats, milk or almond milk, and flavourful toppings like sliced bananas, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Pack the jars in an insulated lunch bag to keep them warm until lunchtime.
With these wholesome winter packed lunch ideas, you can ensure that your kids stay warm, nourished, and satisfied throughout the chilly winter months. From hearty soups to savoury muffins, there are plenty of delicious options to keep their taste buds happy and their bodies fuelled with essential nutrients. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy watching your little ones indulge in these nutritious meals.
