Whether you’re worried about how long a lunch box might get stuck in the hot sun or worried about not sending your child’s deskmate into anaphylactic shock by accidentally sending a critical allergen in your child’s snack, sending food to school can seem like a daunting task. Set your concerns aside for a few days–we’ve got a roundup of recipes that mostly avoid major food allergens, doesn’t require refrigeration, meets the schools healthy eating policies and satisfies your child’s demands for flavor and texture. Parent of the year? That’s so you.
Spiced Roasted Almonds
Okay for some peanut-free classrooms (but not all, check with your school), almonds are naturally packed with protein and fat to keep small brains nourished and focused. This recipe spices them up for bored little snackers. (3 Guiding Stars)
Fruit Leather Rolls
Tired of fighting the advertising battle against prepared foods? This whole food, simple, homemade snack is a perfect take on a childhood favorite with none of the added sugar and all the flexible fun. (3 Guiding Stars)
Fruit Salsa
Served alone as a salad or as a dip with cinnamon-baked tortilla chips (available free of gluten), this sweet snack is bound to be a lunchtime favorite. Use it as a guide to use up that fruit that’s just about to go by. (3 Guiding Stars)
Carrot Chips
Nothing says snacktime like a chip with a bit of crackle, and when your chips are vegetables sweetened with a touch of orange juice and a hint of spice, you’ll be the envy of the classroom. (3 Guiding Stars)
Vegan Cheesy Chips
Dairy-free and full of flavor, nutritional yeast and kale pair up for a startling flavor bonanza that will have your kids asking you if there really isn’t any cheese in these simple, marvelous chips. (2 Guiding Stars)
2o Minute Applesauce Cookies
No matter how healthy it is, if you call it a cookie, kids will give it a try. These delicious nibbles are the perfect delivery vehicle for fruit and whole grain, even for the pickiest eaters. (2 Guiding Stars)
Quinoa Granola
Served alone or with fruit and yogurt, this incredibly crunchy, gluten-free granola is a delightful treat for small and large hands alike. (2 Guiding Stars)