8 nutritionist-approved kids lunch ideas—that aren’t sandwiches

As a nutritionist and mom, I know the daily struggle of packing lunches for my kids that don’t incite an immediate groan. After all, I wouldn’t want to eat the same ham-and-cheese sandwich 5 days a week, either. That’s why I’ve been branching out from beyond the bread—and seeking inspiration for non-sandwich lunch ideas.

My kids definitely have phases where they’d happily eat the same thing day in and day out, but when it comes to nourishing their growing bodies, I want to make sure they’re getting a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients—and not just the same few foods on repeat.

Of course, many kids are creatures of habit, and not all are adventurous eaters (mine included). That’s why I’ve come up with a slew of sandwich-free lunch ideas that are both kid-friendly and nutrient-dense. (Because I can pack the lentil patties in their lunchboxes, but there’s only the most miniscule chance they’ll actually eat them.) Here’s my list below—and I hope it inspires a bit of creativity in your lunch-packing routines, too. 

7 kids lunch ideas that aren’t sandwiches

1. Fried rice

I make a batch on the weekend and portion it out into their lunchboxes throughout the week. It’s packed with protein from eggs and edamame, plus is a good vehicle for veggies like carrots and peas. The familiar flavors mean my kids gobble it up without any fuss. In a pinch? Try Trader Joe’s Frozen Japanese-Style Fried Rice—super quick and easy. 

2. Cracker stacks

Don’t underestimate the power of a DIY Lunchable. I’ll pack small slices of cheese, salami or turkey and whole-grain crackers for them to stack up and assemble their own mini-meals.

3. Chia pudding

When made with a coconut milk base, chia pudding is surprisingly filling, and can serve as a main course in place of a sandwich. Thanks to the plant-based fats found in the coconut milk and chia seeds (and all those Omega-3s!), it’s pure brain food that’ll power them through the rest of their day. Add a small dollop of jam to make it a little sweet. 

4. Cheesy pasta salad

Toss your kid’s fave shape of pasta with sautéed zucchini, cherry tomatoes (if they won’t protest) and a lemony dressing, topped with shredded parmesan or crumbled feta. 

5. Guacamole and chips

If your kiddos gobble up the guac every time it’s taco night, consider that a surefire sign it can make an appearance in their lunch, too. Pack it in an airtight container and serve it up with dippers like tortilla chips, sliced peppers, carrots and cucumber spears.

6. Yogurt bowl

Layer up their own mini parfait with their favorite yogurt, granola or crushed graham crackers, fresh or frozen blueberries—whatever you have on hand. Don’t forget to pack a spoon! 

7. Hummus platter

Stock up on grab-and-go options like packs of hummus and chips or pretzels (we love Cedar’s Grab ‘n’ Go Snack Packs—especially the Dark Chocolate Hommus variety), then tuck in additional dippers to round out the offering, like cucumber spears, baby carrots and red pepper slices. It’s a dippable yet filling lunch option (Cedar’s Original Hommus with Chips pack contains 6 grams of protein) that’ll power them through the end of their school day.

8. Mini burritos

Pack small tortillas, shredded cheese, a little salsa and any other toppings your kids love so they can roll up their own mini burritos—sure to be the highlight of their day.

Sure, some days you may need to fall back on the standard sandwich, but that’s 100% OK. But by mixing in a few fresh non-sandwich lunch ideas, you can broaden your child’s palate, sneak in extra nutrients, and make packing lunch a more joyful task.

A version of this story was originally published on Aug. 22, 2024. It has been updated.