Packing lunch for kids can be a daily challenge, especially when you want to keep things fresh, tasty, and easy to prepare. These 11 easy cold lunch ideas for kids are perfect for school days, offering a mix of nutritious, delicious, and fun options that will keep your little ones energized and excited to eat. Best of all, these lunches require minimal prep time and can be made ahead, saving you time during busy mornings.
Cold lunches are a great choice because they don’t require reheating, making them perfect for schools without microwaves. They’re also versatile and portable, which means you can customize them based on your child’s preferences and dietary needs. From sandwiches and wraps to salads and finger foods, this list has something to suit every kid’s taste.
One classic favorite is the turkey and cheese roll-up, which is simple, protein-packed, and easy to eat. For a vegetarian twist, try a hummus and veggie wrap, filled with crunchy cucumbers, shredded carrots, and bell peppers, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla.
If your child loves fruit, consider a fruit and yogurt parfait—layer Greek yogurt with fresh berries and granola for a sweet and healthy treat that stays cold and fresh. Another fun option is pasta salad with veggies, tossed in a light vinaigrette, which can be eaten cold and keeps well in lunchboxes.
For something heartier, pack chicken salad sandwiches made with shredded chicken, a little mayo, and diced celery or grapes for a touch of sweetness. You can also make mini pita pockets stuffed with falafel, lettuce, and tzatziki for a Mediterranean flair that’s easy to handle and delicious.
Snack-friendly options include cheese and cracker packs, hard-boiled eggs, and veggie sticks with ranch dip, which are perfect for nibbling between bites of the main lunch. Don’t forget to add a small sweet treat like a homemade cookie or a piece of dark chocolate for an extra smile.
These easy cold lunch ideas for kids also encourage balanced eating with a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh produce. You can customize portion sizes and ingredients depending on your child’s appetite and preferences. Plus, they’re designed to travel well, so your child’s lunch arrives fresh and tasty every day.
Whether you’re packing lunch for preschool, elementary school, or even middle school, these ideas will help you keep things interesting and stress-free. Say goodbye to the lunchbox rut and hello to happy, satisfied kids who look forward to lunchtime.
Ignacio’s Super Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
Take the classic PB&J sandwich up a notch with this triple-layered twist. A slice of toasted bread in the middle seems like a small addition, but it makes all the difference. For a nut-free alternative, try sunflower seed butter.
Basic Chicken Salad
Use your leftover chicken to create this make-ahead sandwich filling that’ll please even the pickiest of eaters. Recipe creator Jackie M. suggests using thighs or breasts, but rotisserie chicken works well too.
Ranch, Bacon, and Parmesan Pasta Salad
Here’s a filling meal or side dish that lovers of ranch dressing will ask for again and again. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in colorful veggies like peas, carrots, and onions.
California Club Turkey Sandwich
If you can’t decide what to pack in your child’s lunch box, a simple turkey sandwich is always a safe bet. This elevated version is easy to customize with your little one’s favorite toppings and condiments.
Bento Box Turkey Roll-Ups with Caprese Salad
This well-rounded meal (which consists of turkey roll-ups, caprese salad, almonds or an allergy-friendly alternative, and sugar snap peas served with a balsamic dressing) will fit perfectly into your kid’s bento box.
BLT Wraps
It couldn’t be easier to make this basic BLT wrap with just bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, iceberg lettuce, Cheddar cheese, and flour tortillas.
Waldorf Chicken Salad Wrap Bento Box
This delicious lunch has “the flavor of a Waldorf salad, but as a chicken salad wrap, separated into a bento box to keep it from getting soggy,” according to recipe creator and Allrecipes Allstar fabeveryday.
PBJ ‘Sushi’ Kid’s Bento Box
How fun is this kid-friendly “sushi” that tastes suspiciously like peanut butter and jelly? Your child will love it served with chocolate sauce and fresh fruit.
Sweet Ham Roll-Ups
Apples add welcome sweetness to these ham wraps with cream cheese, Cheddar, and mustard. Reviewer suggests adding diced red bell peppers into this mix for extra color and flavor.
Lunch Box Pita Pockets
It doesn’t get simpler or more satisfying than this 5-ingredient pita pocket stuffed with ham, lettuce, carrots, and ranch dressing.
Ants on a Log
You can’t go wrong with a tried-and-true favorite like ants on a log! Pair this 3-ingredient snack with your child’s favorite sandwich for a well-rounded lunch.
