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8 Hot Lunch Ideas for School: Live Simply

As the new school year kicks off, it’s time to think about nutritious and tasty lunch options that can keep your children energised throughout the day. When making packed lunches, there’s often a desire to strike that perfect balance between health, taste, and convenience. Hot lunches can be great options that not only satiate hunger but also thrill little taste buds. Here are eight hot lunch ideas that are simple to prepare and will keep your little ones happy at school.

1. Pasta Bake

A pasta bake is a comforting choice that’s easy to prepare in advance and it’s highly versatile. Cook a batch of pasta, mix it with a sauce of your choice (tomato, cheese, or even pesto), and add vegetables or protein such as chicken or beans. Top it with cheese and bake until golden. Portion it into containers for easy reheating.

2. Mini Quiches

Mini quiches are not only portable but can also be filled with a variety of ingredients, including eggs, cheese, vegetables, and meats. Whisk together some eggs and pour the mixture into a pastry case or a muffin tray. Bake until they’re set and golden. They’re delicious warm but still enjoyable at room temperature—a perfect mix of flavours your children will love!

3. Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Stir-fries are a fantastic way to incorporate plenty of vegetables into your child’s diet. Quickly fry some seasonal vegetables with tofu or chicken in a splash of soy sauce, and serve it over cooked rice. Pack it in a thermal container to keep it nice and warm for lunchtime.

4. Loaded Potato Skins

Baked potatoes make for a hearty lunch option. Scoop out the flesh, mix it with cheese, beans, or any filling of your choice, then pile it back into the skins. Top with additional cheese, bake them until crispy, and serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yoghurt.

5. Soup in a Thermos

A warm and hearty soup is a perfect school lunch, especially during colder months. Make a big batch of your child’s favourite soup—whether it’s creamy tomato, chunky vegetable, or chicken noodle—and keep it hot in a thermal flask. Pair it with wholemeal bread or a cheese toastie for a filling, comforting meal.

6. Homemade Sushi Rolls

Sushi rolls are a fun and healthy lunch option that your kids may relish. Using sushi rice, nori, and fillings like cucumber, avocado, and cooked chicken or fish, you can create colourful rolls at home. Slice them up, and pack them in a container for a tasty meal that’s a little different from the usual.

7. Chilli Con Carne

A classic chilli con carne can be a warm and satisfying lunch. Make a large batch loaded with beans and vegetables, and let it simmer away for an afternoon of flavour. Pack it in an insulated container, and consider sending it with some tortilla chips or rice for added crunch.

8. Stuffed Pitta Breads

Stuffed pitta breads are an excellent handheld option that can be filled with a variety of fillings. Cook some chicken, falafel, or roast vegetables, and stuff them into pitta pockets. Add some hummus or tzatziki for flavour, and they’ll make a satisfying, warming lunch idea.

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Tips for Packing Hot Lunches

• Use Insulated Containers: To keep meals warm until lunchtime, invest in quality thermal containers. They are great for soups, pasta dishes, and anything that needs to stay warm.

• Plan Ahead: Prepare your hot lunches the night before to make mornings less hectic. Cooking in bulk during the weekend can also save time.

• Balance Your Meals: Include a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and plenty of vegetables to keep your child fuelled and focused throughout their school day.

With a bit of creativity and forward planning, you can provide your children with tasty and nutritious hot lunches that they will look forward to eating every day. Say goodbye to boring sandwiches and hello to delicious meals that pack a punch!

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