As the back-to-school season approaches, parents are once again faced with the challenge of creating healthy & scrumptious lunches for their little ones. Every weekday, parents everywhere are tasked with whipping up a creative lunch box meal that’s tasty enough to actually be eaten (& not traded at the lunch table) while also being nutrient-packed and balanced enough to keep the kiddos fueled, full, and focused.

Today, we’re offering our best, balanced lunchbox ideas that are certain to earn you cool mom or dad points while ensuring your littles get the nutrition they need to slay the school day. Ready to think outside the (lunch) box & upgrade from soggy sammies and smushed bananas? Read on!

Nutritious & Delicious LunchBox Ideas for Back-to-School

Buh-Bye Juice Box

One quick look at the grocery aisles lined with rainbow hued, sugar-laden products marketed to children is enough to put us on high alert as to what we choose to tuck into our kids lunchboxes. From cavities to weight-related health conditions, most medical professionals have taken a firm stance on where they stand with what’s considered quintessential lunchbox bev, the juice box. Typically chock-full of sugar, artificial flavors, dyes, and high fructose corn syrup, it’s obvious that juice boxes are not the best choice for keeping your kiddos hydrated at school. Fortunately, kicking off healthy hydration habits young is a great way to encourage future water warriors later in life. Whether you send your little ones with an adorably bite-sized JUST mini carton, or try to spice up their sips with a flavor fix or a touch of sparkle, there’s no shortage of ways to boost your lunchbox beverage game & side step the juice box than with JUST.

That’s a Wrap

Whip up a colorful and nutritious wrap by spreading hummus on a whole wheat tortilla and layering sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, and spinach leaves. Roll it up and slice into bite-sized pinwheels. Tuck in a JUST Infused Mint for a hint of freshness.

Supercharged Superfood Salad

Whip up a protein-packed quinoa salad by mixing cooked quinoa with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, black beans, and corn. Toss with a light vinaigrette dressing and pack it with a side of fresh fruit & a subtly sweet Lemon Bubbles.

Bomb.com Bento Box 

Prep a bento box filled with an assortment of good-for-you goodness, like whole grain crackers, cheese cubes, turkey slices, cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, and grapes. Add a small container of nut butter for dipping to tie it all together. Pair with Cucumber Bubbles for a refreshing finish.

Pumped Up Pasta Primavera

Cook whole grain pasta and toss it with a medley of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. Drizzle with a simple olive oil and herb dressing. Pack alongside a side of mixed berries and a JUST Infused Lemon.

Slammin’ Snack Box

Create a DIY snack box with a variety of nutritious finger foods. Some of our favorites include hard-boiled eggs, whole grain pretzels, apple slices with almond butter, and a handful of nuts. Round out the lunchbox feast with a flavorful finish thanks to Valencia Orange Bubbles.

Stepped Up Sushi Rolls

Prep homemade sushi rolls with brown rice, avocado, cucumber, and cooked shrimp or imitation crab. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce, coconut aminos, or a light dipping sauce. Pair with sliced mango and Lime Bubbles!

Sending your little one’s off to school with a nutritious, delicious, and well-balanced lunch doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little creativity & refrigerator stocked with a selection of hydrating JUST Water, you can be sure your kiddos take on the new school year feeling their best from the inside out.