Out of the Box Packable Lunches for Kids and Adults

This post was sponsored by Sprouts Farmers Market. As always, all opinions and recipes are my own, and you can be sure that I only work with brands I truly believe in.

It’s almost time for the kids to head back to school, and I know that for many of you that means you’re already thinking about what to pack for lunch. I might not have kids yet, but I do pack lunch for Nathan and I everyday, and I figure packing lunch for a husband is a lot like packing lunch for kids, right?

Check out my top 10 ideas for creative and fun lunches to get you through the first two weeks of the school year.

1. Ham and Cheese Egg Muffins with pancake puffs and berry kabobs
2. Healthier Chicken Salad with whole grain crackers, celery, and fruit
3. Mediterranean Quinoa and Tuna Balanced Bowl
4. Sprouts Sushicado Brown Rice Roll: This sushi roll featuring whole grain brown rice and avocado is full of healthy nutrients and is a fun alternative to more standard options. Pack with your favorite fruit and crunchy raw veggie. And be sure to stop by Sprouts on a Wednesday when select sushi rolls are just $5!
5. Sprouts prepared salad: Sprouts offers several varieties of freshly prepared salads that are ready-to-eat. I love the Mediterranean Greek Salad, which comes with two stuffed grape leaves, and the Vegan Chopped Salad with Sesame Dressing. These salads are big, so no need to pack anything else.
6. Easy Chicken and Veggie Pasta Salad with fruit and a serving of low-fat dairy
7. Peanut butter waffle sandwich: Jazz up that same old PB&J by using waffles instead of bread! I love Sprouts’ Organic Flax Waffles that are made with whole wheat flour. Toast the waffles, and spread peanut butter over both waffles. Top with sliced fresh strawberries instead of jelly for less added sugar. I added carrots and string cheese for a balanced meal. 
8. Leftovers stuffed potato: You can stuff a potato with just about anything. This one is stuffed with Sloppy Joe mix, Cheddar cheese, plain Greek yogurt and green onions. My favorite combination is a sweet potato stuffed with canned black beans, frozen bell pepper and onion mix, salsa, and Cheddar cheese…such a simple and delicious way to enjoy a hot lunch with minimal effort.
9. Turkey and Cream Cheese Wraps with cucumber slices and strawberries 
10. Sprouts Hummus and Vegetable Snack Box: This ready-made box features fresh, crunchy veggies, like carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower, with creamy hummus for dipping. Pack with whole grain crackers and an apple.

So now that you’re prepared with some yummy packable lunches, are you ready for back to school?

Come August I hear my dad in my mind on repeat singing this awful song he made up that said, “Vacation is over, Jessie’s ready for school…” It was so mean when I was trying to soak up every last minute of summer! What are you doing to enjoy these last few days before school starts back?