Dora Cavallo
- Aug 30, 2021
- 2 min read

MIX AND MATCH SCHOOL LUNCH IDEAS

The month of August always seems to fly by. I always think I have plenty of time to get organized before the school year starts and finish up projects I have around the house. And then all of a sudden, I find that the school years has already begun. It’s definitely a time of adjustment and trying to juggle everyone’s schedule. One thing that has helped, is that the girls pack their own lunches the night before. Mornings are so hectic and having them prep lunch ahead of time makes everything run a bit smoother. It’s so nice that they can grab their lunch boxes and run out the door.

Having a nutritious and delicious meal is vital for kids. They need just the right amount of fuel to help them stay focused while they are in the classroom. I’ll give them a few options so they can mix and match and come up with a lunch that is well balanced and something that they enjoy eating. I have actually started doing it for myself because lunch is one of those meals that gets pushed to the side on a busy day. More often than not, by the time I have time for lunch I grab whatever is convenient. I’m trying to be more mindful of my own eating habits and this way I can also have a yummy lunch planned for myself. It’s quick, easy and is a fun activity to do with my girls.

Since I’m letting them pack their own lunch boxes, I want to keep it as simple as possible. No heating is involved and everything can be served chilled or at room temperature. This no recipe recipe is inspired by a snacking board. It is one of my family favorites and is a great way for everyone to try out new flavor combinations. I prep a few options at the beginning of the week and let them to create their lunch with fun flavor combinations. It starts off with the main ingredient, Cabot Creamery Cracker Cut Slices and Snack Sticks. I love all the different options and my youngest is a big fan of the Colby Snack Sticks with Pepperoni and Pretzels, while my oldest likes the Seriously Sharp Cracker Cuts with crackers or flatbread. Lately, I’ve been enjoying Pepper Jack Cracker Cut Slices with cut up tortillas and veggies.

Cabot Creamery is a Co-op which means it’s a member-owned and member-controlled business that operates for the benefit of its members. It started in 1919, when 94 families from Cabot, Vermont, formed a co-operative to ensure their livelihood.