When I was a personal chef in New York City, I cooked for a lot of kids (and their parents!). One question I got all the time was, what should I make for my school lunch that’s healthy, lasts unrefrigerated until lunchtime, and that they will actually eat? My go-to was always the same: Bento Box.
What is a Bento Box?
A bento box is a traditional Japanese lunchbox that is designed to hold a single serving of a balanced meal. It consists of a compact, compartmentalized container that allows for the organized packing of different food items.
Bento boxes have been used in Japan for centuries and have gained popularity worldwide due to their practicality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to promote portion control and healthy eating habits.
source: Arina Habich
The word “bento” itself refers to a boxed meal, and the concept of bento boxes can vary in terms of size, materials, and designs. Traditional bento boxes often consist of a bottom compartment for rice, a main dish compartment, and one or more smaller compartments for side dishes, fruits, or snacks.
These compartments keep the different food items separate, preventing the mixing of flavors and allowing for easy portioning, making meals visually appealing and enjoyable, particularly for children.
Top 5 Bento Box For Kids’ School Lunch
Modern bento boxes come in a variety of materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and eco-friendly options. They may also incorporate additional features like thermal insulation, removable dividers, and fun designs or characters. Here are some of our top picks for bento boxes.
1. Bentgo Kids Bento Box:
This bento box is specifically designed for children with five compartments that are perfectly portioned for a balanced meal. It is leak-proof, durable, and easy to clean and comes with child-friendly latches for easy opening and closing.
2. Yumbox Original Bento Box
The Yumbox Original is a popular choice among parents due to its compact size and attractive design. It features six compartments, each labeled with food groups to encourage balanced eating. It is leak-proof and comes in various colorful designs.
3. OmieBox Bento Box
The OmieBox is a versatile bento box that not only keeps food separate but also has a built-in thermos compartment to keep hot foods warm until lunchtime. It has three compartments and is made from durable, BPA-free materials.
4. PlanetBox Rover Stainless Steel Bento Box
If you’re looking for a durable and eco-friendly option, the PlanetBox Rover is an excellent choice. Made from high-quality stainless steel, it features five compartments that are ideal for different food groups. It comes with a variety of fun magnets for personalization.
5. Kinsho Bento Box
These bento box containers are affordable and practical. They feature six compartments, allowing you to pack a variety of foods and include cutleries. They are dishwasher-safe and stackable for easy storage.
source: Katerina Holmes | Pexels
10 Healthy and Quick Bento Box School Lunch Ideas for Kids
Let’s eat! Here are some of my go-to bento box school lunch ideas, from my kitchen to yours.
1. Turkey Roll-Ups
Roll slices of turkey breast with lettuce, cheese, and a spread of hummus. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
2. Veggie Sushi Rolls
Always a hit! Use sushi rice and fill nori seaweed with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and avocado. Cut into bite-sized rolls and pack with a side of soy sauce for dipping.
3. Mini Caprese Skewers
Thread cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and pack them in the bento box.
4. Quinoa (or brown rice!) Salad
Cook quinoa and mix it with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, and feta cheese. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and pack it in a section of the bento box.
5. Hummus and Veggie Dippers
Pack individual compartments with hummus and a colorful assortment of sliced bell peppers, cucumber sticks, and carrot sticks for dipping.
6. Mini Meatballs
Make mini chicken or turkey meatballs seasoned with herbs and spices. Include a dipping sauce such as marinara or Greek yogurt ranch.
7. Fruit Salad
Create a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of berries, watermelon cubes, grapes, and sliced kiwi. Add a sprinkle of lime juice to keep the fruits fresh and vibrant.
8. Pasta Salad
Toss cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, olives, and mozzarella cheese. Dress with a light vinaigrette and pack it in a section of the bento box.
9. Mini Pita Pizzas
Spread tomato sauce on mini whole wheat pitas and top with shredded cheese and your child’s favorite toppings like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or sliced olives. Bake until the cheese is melted and pack them in the bento box.
10. Energy Bites
Make homemade energy bites using oats, nut butter, honey, and mix-ins like dried fruits, chocolate chips, or chia seeds. Pack a few in a section of the bento box for a sweet and nutritious treat.
Remember to adjust the portion sizes and ingredients according to your child’s preferences and dietary restrictions. These ideas offer a good balance of protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, making them a nutritious and appealing option for your kids’ bento box lunches.
featured image: Katrina Holmes | Pexels
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