CALIFORNIA GROWN
Lunchtime can be a bit of a challenge, especially when you’re packing lunchboxes for multiple types of eaters. If you’re tired of the same old sandwiches and snacks, CA GROWN is ready to help you shake things up with some healthy and fresh lunchbox recipes that will make the midday meal exciting and nutritious.
When it comes to lunchbox recipes, fresh ingredients can make all the difference. Fresh produce from California – like crunchy carrots, juicy mandarins, and sweet bell peppers – ensures your lunches are bursting with flavor and nutrition to help get through the day at school or work.
Wraps are a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of fresh vegetables into your child’s lunch. Start with a whole wheat or spinach tortilla and load it up with colorful veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots, and leafy greens. Add a protein source like grilled chicken or hummus, and top it off with a tangy vinaigrette or creamy avocado spread. To make it more fun, cut the wraps into pinwheels.
Bento boxes are perfect for those who like a little variety in their meals. Fill compartments with fresh fruits like apple slices, grapes, and berries. Add a handful of nuts and a small container of yogurt or cheese. This combination provides a balance of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and tasty lunch option.
Isn’t this the cutest Prune Panda Muffin ever? Your child’s favorite healthy muffin is a must eat with a coating of nut butter or icing, a sprinkle of coconut, and California prunes as ears and eyes.
– Balance is key: Include a mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. – Stay hydrated: Pack a water bottle or include fruits with high water content like California citrus or melon. – Keep it fresh: Use ice packs to keep the lunch cool and fresh until it’s time to eat. – Prep ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance to make packing lunchboxes quicker and easier during busy mornings. – Make it fun: Use cookie cutters to shape slices of cheese, fruits, and veggies into fun designs.
Swipe up to find the answers to common questions about packing lunches, & all of our favorite lunchbox recipes!
To help consumers recognize California's role in food production and to connect them with the farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers that grow over 400 specialty crops in the Golden State. And since California produces over 50% of the nation's produce, we have lots of stories to tell.