It’s that time of year again! Back to school season is upon us and that means parents will need some quick, easy and healthy lunch ideas to make for their little ones. When packing a healthy lunch, be sure to include variety – try to incorporate a good mix of proteins, carbs and fats, along with fresh fruits and veggies so everyone stays full and satisfied!
Here’s a list of 3 kid-friendly protein ideas that your kids will actually want to eat.
Make Ahead Breakfast Muffins
Eggs are super nutritious and high in protein – they make a great snack for adults and are super healthy for kids! These eggs muffins are very easy to make and can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Ingredients
- 12 Large eggs
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 12-cup muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt and pepper. Add in your bacon and cheddar cheese.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes
AMGA Chez Vous Tip: Once the muffins are completely cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and put them in the freezer.
Chicken Salad
Serves: 4
Making a chicken salad is a great way to use leftover cooked chicken breast or whole chicken. This recipe takes just a few minutes to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- ¼ cup celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Optional: Add in cucumbers, red onions, green onions or a hard-boiled egg for more flavour
Instructions
- Shred your chicken.
- Combine chicken, celery, parsley, Greek yogurt, Dijon, lemon juice and salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Serve with a croissant or for a healthier alternative serve in lettuce wraps.
Classic Meatballs
Yields 25-30 meatballs
This classic meatball recipe is perfect for lunchboxes. We suggest baking instead of frying them, making them a touch healthier.
Ingredients
- 500g lean ground beef
- 500g ground pork
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup finely grated Romano cheese
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons basil, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients. Shape into 1 ½ inch meatballs. Place 1 inch apart on pan.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until no longer pink in the center.