Summer is the perfect time to get creative with lunch ideas for kids. With the warmer weather, kids need nutritious, refreshing, and delicious meals that can be made quickly and enjoyed outside. Whether they’re at home, at a picnic, or at the beach, it’s important to offer meals that are not only tasty but also easy to pack and eat.
This list of 20 summer lunch ideas for kids will provide a variety of fun and healthy options. From colorful wraps and sandwiches to tasty salads and bites, these recipes are designed to appeal to young appetites. These meals are full of fresh ingredients, packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, perfect for fueling active kids.
1. Ants On a Log
Ants on a Log is a timeless, fun, and nutritious snack that’s easy to prepare and perfect for kids. The combination of crunchy celery, creamy peanut butter, and sweet raisins makes for a tasty treat that’s as playful as it is delicious. Not only does it offer a satisfying mix of textures, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
Ingredients
- 3-4 celery sticks
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/4 cup raisins
- Optional: Crushed peanuts for extra crunch
Instructions
- Wash and cut the celery into 3-4 inch pieces.
- Using a butter knife, spread peanut butter along the hollowed-out center of each celery stick.
- Sprinkle raisins over the peanut butter, arranging them as “ants” along the length of the log.
- (Optional) For an extra crunch, top with crushed peanuts.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
2. Broccoli Tots
Broccoli Tots are a fun and delicious way to get your kids to enjoy their veggies. These crispy, cheesy bites are packed with nutritious broccoli but taste just like their beloved tater tots, making them the perfect kid-friendly side dish for lunch. Baked to golden perfection, these tots offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, making them a favorite with picky eaters.
Ingredients
- 2 cups steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for spraying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- Shape the mixture into small tot-sized portions and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the tots with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup or a ranch-style dip.
3. Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Chicken
Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Chicken is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that both kids and adults will enjoy. The crispy bacon combined with the rich, juicy chicken and the sweet brown sugar glaze creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress at any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper, then coat each piece with the brown sugar mixture.
- Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the bacon-wrapped chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bacon is browned and crispy.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
4. Cheese Stuffed Potato Cakes
Cheese Stuffed Potato Cakes are the ultimate snack or side dish that combines crispy, golden potatoes with a gooey, melty cheese filling. Perfectly crispy on the outside and oozing with cheese on the inside, these potato cakes are sure to be a hit at lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them in a large bowl. Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly.
- Once cooled, add the grated Parmesan, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix until well combined.
- Take small portions of the potato mixture and flatten them into a patty shape.
- Place a teaspoon of mozzarella cheese in the center of each patty, then fold the sides over to seal the cheese inside.
- Dredge each stuffed potato cake in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the potato cakes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
- Drain the potato cakes on a paper towel and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
5. Cherry Tomato Pasta
Cherry Tomato Pasta is a simple dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes. Paired with fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, this light and refreshing pasta is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The burst of juices from the cherry tomatoes combined with the aromatic basil creates a beautiful balance of flavors, making it an ideal dish for kids who love fresh ingredients and easy-to-eat meals.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, saving a small cup of pasta water.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Season with salt and pepper, then toss the cooked pasta into the pan with the tomatoes. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to create a slightly saucy consistency.
- Stir in the fresh basil and toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that combines tender grilled chicken with the rich flavors of crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing—all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this wrap is kid-friendly and can be enjoyed on the go.
Ingredients
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and sliced
- 2 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by warming the tortillas in a pan for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are soft and slightly golden.
- Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread the ranch dressing evenly across the center of the tortilla.
- Layer the sliced chicken breast on top of the ranch dressing, followed by crumbled bacon, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards, then roll the wrap tightly from one end to the other to enclose the fillings.
- Slice the wrap in half and serve immediately, or wrap it tightly for later.
7. Chicken Broccoli Pasta
The Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Tender pieces of chicken and fresh broccoli are combined with hearty pasta and coated in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a balanced meal that offers a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies, while also indulging in delicious pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cups rigatoni pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet, then stir to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
8. Corn Dog Bites
Corn Dog Bites are a fun and delicious twist on the classic corn dog. These mini treats are made by stuffing hot dog pieces inside cornbread muffins, creating a bite-sized version of the traditional fair food. Whether served as an after-school snack or at a casual party, these corn dog bites are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 package hot dogs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 box of cornbread muffin mix
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cornbread muffin mix box. Prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it or using muffin liners.
- In a bowl, prepare the cornbread muffin batter according to the package instructions, adding the egg, milk, and melted butter. If you’d like, you can stir in shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy kick.
- Spoon the cornbread batter into each muffin cup, filling them about halfway.
- Place a piece of hot dog in the center of each muffin cup, gently pressing it down into the batter.
- Bake according to the package instructions, typically for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the corn dog bites cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with ketchup or mustard for dipping.
9. Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. These skewers feature tender grilled chicken, juicy pineapple chunks, and colorful bell peppers, all marinated in a tropical sauce that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory richness of soy sauce and garlic.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure all the pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the chicken cubes, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between the different ingredients.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Serve immediately with rice, a side salad, or as a stand-alone meal.
10. Italian Pasta Salad
Italian Pasta Salad is the perfect summer dish that comes with vibrant ingredients and bold flavors into a refreshing and satisfying meal. This dish is a delightful combination of rotini pasta, ripe cherry tomatoes, black olives, mozzarella, and savory salami, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup salami, chopped into cubes
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, cubed mozzarella, chopped salami, red onion, and artichoke hearts.
- Add the Italian dressing to the bowl and toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a little extra Italian seasoning for a bolder flavor.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
11. Keto Zucchini Fries
Keto Zucchini Fries are a perfect low-carb alternative to the classic fried potato fries. These crispy, oven-baked zucchini fries are coated in a delicious Parmesan crust, making them the ideal healthy snack or side dish. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a tender, flavorful inside, these zucchini fries provide all the satisfaction of traditional fries without the extra carbs.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into strips
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, almond flour, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip each zucchini strip into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll it in the Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to coat all sides.
- Place the coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Lightly spray the zucchini fries with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
12. Lasagna Roll Ups
Lasagna Roll Ups offer a delightful twist on the classic lasagna, making it an easy-to-serve, fun, and customizable dish. Instead of layering sheets of pasta, lasagna noodles are rolled up around a delicious mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and marinara sauce, then baked to perfection with a layer of melted mozzarella on top.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions, drain, and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, spinach, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Spread about 1/3 cup of the cheese mixture onto each lasagna noodle and then carefully roll them up tightly.
- Place each lasagna roll-up seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
13. Mac and Cheese Muffins
Mac and Cheese Muffins are a fun, portable twist on the classic comfort food. These bite-sized wonders feature creamy, cheesy mac and cheese baked into crispy muffin cups. Ideal for kids (and adults alike), these mini servings of macaroni and cheese are a hit for parties, lunchboxes, or as a quick snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line with muffin liners.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the egg mixture and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well combined.
- Spoon the mac and cheese mixture evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ of the way.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Optional: top with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
- Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving.
14. Pepperoni Pizza Muffins
Pepperoni Pizza Muffins are a fun twist on traditional pizza, baked in muffin form for an easy, kid-friendly lunch. With savory pepperoni, melted cheese, and a burst of Italian seasoning, these mini pizza muffins are perfect for school lunches or an after-school snack. They’re delicious, portable, and sure to be a hit with your little ones!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup diced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, olive oil, and egg, mixing well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese and diced pepperoni.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
15. Peanut Sesame Noodles
Cold peanut sesame noodles are the perfect dish for a refreshing and quick lunch. With a creamy peanut and sesame sauce that coats every noodle, this dish is both satisfying and full of flavor. Topped with crunchy peanuts and sesame seeds, it’s a delightful combination of textures that will make your taste buds sing.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. noodles (preferably thin spaghetti or rice noodles)
- 3 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp crushed peanuts
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Add the cooked noodles to the bowl with the peanut sauce and toss until the noodles are evenly coated.
- Garnish the noodles with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and crushed peanuts for an extra crunch.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later – these noodles make for a great make-ahead lunch.
16. Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap
Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap is a quick and healthy option that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch. The creamy peanut butter pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bananas, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making this wrap both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 1 large whole wheat tortilla
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 1 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Spread the peanut butter evenly over the tortilla, leaving about an inch from the edge.
- Lay the banana slices across the center of the tortilla.
- If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the banana slices for an extra treat.
- Roll up the tortilla tightly, enclosing the filling inside.
- Slice the wrap into bite-sized pieces or enjoy it whole as a quick lunch.
17. Pizza Grilled Cheese
Pizza Grilled Cheese combines the comforting warmth of a grilled cheese sandwich with the irresistible flavors of pizza. Stuffed with marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni slices, this sandwich is a fun and delicious twist on a classic. It’s perfect for lunch or a quick snack, offering the best of both worlds – cheesy, crispy, and packed with pizza goodness.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6-8 slices of pepperoni
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, on a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Spread marinara sauce on the unbuttered side of the bread.
- Layer the mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce.
- Add the pepperoni slices over the cheese, and top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing up.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
18. Pizza Pasta Salad
Pizza Pasta Salad is the ultimate fusion of pasta salad and pizza, combining the fresh crunch of vegetables, the savory taste of pepperoni, and the rich creaminess of mozzarella cheese. Tossed in a tangy Italian dressing, it’s a perfect dish for a picnic, potluck, or a quick lunch. The flavors will remind you of your favorite pizza, but in a delightful pasta form!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained rotini pasta with the pepperoni, black olives, green bell pepper, red onion, and mozzarella cheese.
- Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
- Serve cold and enjoy this perfect fusion of pasta and pizza!
19. Pizza Zucchini Boats
Pizza Zucchini Boats are the perfect healthy alternative to traditional pizza, combining the flavors of marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and savory mini pepperoni. Zucchini serves as the perfect low-carb base, offering a fresh and delicious twist on pizza that’s packed with flavor but without the guilt. Whether as a main dish or a side, these are a hit for everyone!
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the seeds to create a boat shape.
- Arrange the zucchini halves on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce onto each zucchini half.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, mini pepperoni slices, and black olives.
- Sprinkle dried oregano and basil over the top for added flavor.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
20. Tortilla Pizza
Tortilla Pizza is an easy and fun twist on traditional pizza. By using a crispy tortilla as the base, you get a crunchy, light crust that holds all your favorite pizza toppings—perfect for a quick meal. With the simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation, this dish is ideal for a fast, satisfying meal anytime you’re craving pizza.
Ingredients
- 1 large flour tortilla
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the tortilla on a baking sheet and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on top.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Add your desired pizza toppings—black olives and sliced mushrooms work wonderfully.
- Season with dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortilla are crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and color, and serve immediately.
Conclusion
Summer lunches don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With these 20 creative lunch ideas, you’ll be able to serve meals that kids will love while ensuring they’re getting all the nutrients they need. These recipes are simple, quick to make, and easy to pack, perfect for busy summer days.
Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a casual meal at home, these summer lunches will bring joy to kids and make mealtime hassle-free for parents.