Move over PB&J. Here are some quick and easy lunchbox makeovers that the kids are sure to love.
Tuna Apple Sandwich
Tired of boring tuna sandwiches? Add some crunch and a little zing with chunks of green apple.
Ingredients
5-ounce can of tuna, packed in water
1 green apple, peeled and cut into small cubes
1 tablespoon light mayonnaise
6 slices whole-wheat bread
Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix tuna, apple and mayonnaise.
- Spread mixture onto bread (makes three sandwiches).
Nutrition
Per serving (makes three): 250 calories; 4.5 g fat; 20 mg cholesterol; 530 mg sodium; 33 g carbohydrates; 6 g fiber; 20 g protein.
Source: eatright.org
Quesadilla Surprise
Parents, one bite of this quesadilla, and you might pack your lunch, too. It's sweet, creamy and a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
2 large peaches, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 teaspoon brown sugar
3 ounces Brie cheese, thinly sliced
4 whole-wheat tortillas
Cooking spray
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine peaches, chives and sugar.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Arrange one-fourth of the cheese and one-fourth of the peach mixture over half of each tortilla; fold tortillas in half.
- Coat pan with cooking spray.
- Place two quesadillas in pan, and cook until tortillas are lightly browned and crisp, about two minutes per side.
- Remove from pan, and repeat with remaining quesadillas.
- Cut each quesadilla into wedges.
- Cool, then store in plastic wrap.
Nutrition
Per serving (makes 4 servings): 235 calories; 6 g fat; 8 g protein; 38 g carbohydrates; 1 g fiber; 21 mg cholesterol; 474 mg sodium.
Source: myrecipes.com
Scrumptious Skewers
Kids will love these fun-to-eat kebabs, and you will, too, knowing they contain protein, fruit and dairy. Add variety by trying different fruits and cheeses.
Ingredients
½ ounce cubed roasted turkey (buy it unsliced)
½ ounce cubed cheddar cheese
¼ cup grapes
6 dried apricots
Preparation
1. Thread ingredients (alternating between items) onto two wooden skewers.
Nutrition
Per serving (makes one serving): 218 calories; 5 g fat; 20 mg cholesterol; 37 g carbohydrates; 7 g protein; 5 g fiber; 247 mg sodium; 714 mg potassium.
Source: eatingwell.com