10 healthy lunch box snacks

Snacks are a headache! Add to that the many restrictions in schools because of food allergies. It’s with pleasure that I share with you many healthy snacks that have been approved by my kids!

1. Edamame

This very high protein snack is super easy! Costco sells frozen, individually wrapped, edamame.

The small plastic bag goes directly in the microwave for 2 minutes and simply transfer the warmed up beans in a plastic container for the lunch box! It’s as simple as that!

2. Hummus and veggies

My kids are not fans of raw veggies! However, carrots cucumbers, broccolis or bell peppers are a big hit with a hummus dip! Here’s a simple homemade hummus recipe I really enjoy: http://www.jamieoliver.com/news-and-features/features/best-basic-hummus-recipe/

3. Yogurt covered blueberries

I just recently discovered this great little recipe that is so much fun to do with the kids! Here’s a link to guide you: http://www.familyfreshmeals.com/2013/05/frozen-yogurt-covered-blueberries.html

4. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds

These seeds are rich in phosphorus, manganese, zinc, potassium, magnesium and rich in B vitamins! Need any more convincing?

5. Fruit and cheese skewers

Add a personal touch by threading fruit and cheese on small wooden skewers! Grapes, strawberries and cheese is a winning combination for my children!

6. Zucchini muffins

My kids LOVE these little cakes! It’s not even like I have to hide the fact that there are zucchinis in the recipe! They often help me bake them and still… a big hit for everyone!

Here’s a great recipe for you: http://www.heartandstroke.com/site/c.ikIQLcMWJtE/b.7496695/apps/s/content.asp?ct=13135031

7. Microwave chips

Another great recipe that my kids love to do are microwave chips. They enjoy the fact that they can do the whole recipe on their own and also they enjoy the taste! I usually let them make more chips so that I can pack some up for their lunch box. Here’s a link for the recipe we use: http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-crispy-potato-chips-in-the-microwave-166718

8. Avocado and banana cookies

Since the beginning of my paleo lifestyle, I have discovered many sweet recipes to satisfy my sweet tooth! I don’t necessarily expect my kids to like everything I make but the verdict for these cookies is unanimous: they go gag for avocado and banana!!! Here’s the recipe: http://paleoleap.com/avocado-banana-chocolate-cookies/

9. Homemade fruit rolls

I have never tried this recipe, however a good friend of mine gave us a bunch of fruit rolls the whole family enjoyed this refreshing snack! I promised myself to make some before school starts. Here’s a simple recipe: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/fruit-leather-roll-ups-recipe.html

10. Lunch box smoothies

I am a smoothie aholic! I like the taste of them but I especially like experimenting with different fruits and bases. I often make big quantities of smoothies and freeze them in small individual plastic containers. For lunch snacks, I just pop one out of the fridge and place it in the lunchbox! These smoothies are exceptional snacks, as well as coolers for the lunch box!

Enjoy!

Karen :-)