Puzzle Sandwiches
This one is really simple, but it looks pretty cool. Make a sandwich and instead of making one straight cut through the middle, make a couple of puzzle-piece cuts to make the sandwich look like a cool little puzzle. Kids love to see the puzzle slowly disappear.
Toothpicks and Dip
There's something about the process of dipping that kids just love. Add little toothpicks or skewers and you have a fun eating activity that will have them wishing there was more to dip! Try carrots, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and hummus; or strawberries, blueberries, peaches and yogurt.
Faces
You don't have time to make your kid's lunch a piece of art, but making a sandwich look like it has a face is actually really simple. Keep blueberries, grapes, raisins or other small, circular fruits on hand to form the eyes and nose, and cut a baby carrot or cucumber to make a cute little mouth. Voila! You've got an adorable little sandwich guy that your child will love to eat.
"Sushi" Rolls
All you need to make some cool-looking "sushi" rolls are tortillas and some easily spreadable fillings. Try peanut butter (try Sun Butter if you're trying to avoid peanuts), banana and jelly for kids who love PB & J, or mashed avocado, cheese and turkey for kids who love deli sandwiches.
Why let the kids have all the fun? These basic lunches can also make for great grab-and-go meals for weekends on the trail.
What other lunch ideas do you have for back to school or quick hiking meals? Share in the comments!