30 Easy Vegetarian School Lunch Ideas Your kids will love

Last Updated on 1 April 2024

Are you looking for delicious and healthy vegetarian lunch ideas for your child’s school lunches? Look no further! In this article, we will explore 30 easy and nutritious vegetarian lunch ideas that are perfect for school. Whether your child is a picky eater or has specific dietary restrictions, there is something here for everyone.

We all know that lunchtime can be challenging when it comes to eating healthy. It is often the time of day when we are the busiest and most tempted by unhealthy options. But with some planning, you can ensure that your child’s lunch is nutritious, delicious, and satisfying. These vegetarian lunch ideas are not only easy to make, but they are also packed with nutrients that will keep your child energized throughout the day.

We will cover a wide range of vegetarian lunch ideas that are perfect for school. From quinoa salad with black beans to veggie sushi rolls and peanut butter and banana sandwiches, there is something here to suit every taste. Let’s dive in and discover 30 easy vegetarian school lunch ideas that your child will love!

30 Easy Vegetarian School Lunch Ideas

Are you tired of the same old, boring sandwich for lunch? If so, it’s time to shake things up with these 30 simple vegetarian lunch ideas for school. These lunches are not only delicious and nutritious, but they are also easy to prepare and pack in a lunchbox. From quinoa salad with black beans to veggie sushi rolls, there’s something here to suit every taste. Whether your child is a fan of pasta, tacos, or sandwiches, there’s a lunch idea here that they will love. So why settle for a boring lunch when you can have a delicious and healthy meal that will satisfy your child all afternoon?

1. Quinoa Salad with Black Beans

Quinoa salad with black beans is a delicious and nutritious lunch option for school. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies need. It’s also packed with fiber and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a healthy lunch. Black beans add even more protein and fiber, as well as a rich and earthy flavor.

To make the salad, cook the quinoa according to the instructions and let it cool. Then, mix in black beans, chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch. Pack the salad in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. It is a filling and satisfying lunch that will keep your child fueled throughout the day.

2. Veggie Sushi Rolls

Veggie sushi rolls are a fun and healthy lunch idea for school. Not only are they delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients from the vegetables and seaweed. To make veggie sushi rolls, cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions.

Once the rice is cooked and cooled, lay a seaweed sheet on a bamboo sushi mat or plastic wrap. Spread a thin layer of rice over the seaweed, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, add your favorite veggies, like cucumber, avocado, and bell pepper, in a row on top of the rice. Roll up the sushi tightly, using the mat or plastic wrap to help you. Slice the sushi roll into bite-sized pieces and pack them in a lunchbox. Your child will love the flavors and textures of these homemade sushi rolls, and you can customize them with their favorite vegetables.

3. Spinach and Feta-stuffed Pita

Spinach and feta-stuffed pita is a delicious and nutritious lunch option that is easy to make and pack for school. To make the filling, sauté fresh spinach with olive oil until wilted. Then, crumble feta cheese into the pan and stir until melted and combined with the spinach. Cut a pita bread in half, open the pocket, and stuff it with the spinach and feta mixture. You can also add sliced tomatoes or cucumbers for extra flavor and crunch.

Pack the stuffed pita in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. It is a flavorful and satisfying lunch that will keep your child energized throughout the day.

4. Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato-basil pasta is a classic and delicious lunch option, perfect for school. To make this simple pasta salad, cook your child’s favorite pasta according to the instructions and let it cool. Then, toss the pasta with diced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

If your child prefers a hot lunch, you can pack a small container of marinara sauce to heat up and pour over the pasta at school. This tomato basil pasta is not only tasty, but it’s also packed with the flavors of summer and will keep your child satisfied until dinnertime.

5. Cauliflower Tacos

Cauliflower tacos are a delicious and healthy lunch option, perfect for school. To make cauliflower tacos, start by cutting a head of cauliflower into florets. Toss the florets with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt, and roast them in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized. While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare your child’s favorite taco toppings, such as salsa, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and lime wedges.

Once the cauliflower is ready, assemble the tacos by filling the tortillas with the roasted cauliflower and toppings. Pack the tacos in a lunchbox and enjoy them at room temperature. These cauliflower tacos are flavorful, satisfying, and a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your child’s diet.

6. Cheesy Veggie Quesadillas

Cheesy veggie quesadillas are a kid-friendly and delicious lunch option that is perfect for school. To make cheesy veggie quesadillas, start by sautéing your child’s favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, in a pan with a little olive oil. Once the vegetables are tender, remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Place a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla. Top the cheese with the sautéed vegetables and fold the tortilla in half. Cook the quesadilla on both sides until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Pack the cheesy veggie quesadillas in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These quesadillas are cheesy, gooey, and packed with flavor, making them a hit with kids of all ages.

7. Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwiches

Peanut butter and banana sandwiches are a classic and easy vegetarian lunch option that is perfect for school. To make a peanut butter and banana sandwich, spread peanut butter on two slices of whole grain bread. Slice a banana and arrange the slices on one of the bread slices. Place the other bread slice on top and press down gently. Cut the sandwich into halves or quarters and pack it in a lunchbox.

Peanut butter and banana sandwiches are not only delicious but also packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them a satisfying and nutritious lunch option for your child.

8. Carrot and Hummus Pinwheels

Carrot and hummus pinwheels are a colorful and nutritious lunch option perfect for school. To make carrot and hummus pinwheels, spread a thin layer of hummus on a tortilla. Place carrot sticks on top of the hummus in a row. Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice it into bite-sized pinwheels.

Pack the pinwheels in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. Carrot and hummus pinwheels are not only tasty but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying snack for your child.

9. Avocado Chickpea Salad

Avocado chickpea salad is a creamy and nutritious lunch option perfect for school. To make it, mash a ripe avocado in a bowl. Add chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix until well combined. For extra flavor, you can also add diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, or sliced red onions.

Pack the avocado chickpea salad in a lunchbox and enjoy it with crackers or as a sandwich filling. This salad is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious lunch option for your child.

10. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito

Sweet potato and black bean burritos are a flavorful and filling lunch option perfect for school. To make them, start by baking or microwaving a sweet potato until it is tender. Mash the sweet potato in a bowl and add drained and rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Mix until well combined.

Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave and place a scoop of the sweet potato and black bean mixture in the center of each tortilla. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll it up tightly. Pack the burritos in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These burritos are not only delicious, but they are also packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making them a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

11. Greek Yogurt Parfait with Fresh Berries

Greek yogurt parfait with fresh berries is a refreshing and healthy lunch option that is perfect for school. To make a Greek yogurt parfait, layer Greek yogurt, fresh berries, honey, and granola in a jar or a small container. You can also add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of granola on top for extra flavor and crunch.

Pack the Greek yogurt parfait in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. This parfait is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with protein, calcium, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and energizing lunch option for your child.

12. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

Creamy tomato soup with grilled cheese croutons is a comforting and satisfying lunch option for school. To make creamy tomato soup, sauté diced onions and garlic in a pot until they are soft and translucent. Add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and fresh basil to the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes. Once the soup is cooked, blend it until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. To make grilled cheese croutons, make a cheese sandwich using your child’s favorite cheese and bread. Cook the sandwich in a pan until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

Cut the sandwich into bite-sized croutons and serve them with the creamy tomato soup. Pack the soup and croutons in a thermos or a lunchbox and enjoy them warm or at room temperature. This creamy tomato soup is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and comforting lunch option for your child.

13. Veggie and Cream Cheese Bagel Sandwich

Veggie and cream cheese bagel sandwiches are a satisfying and flavorful lunch option perfect for school. To make one, start by spreading a thin layer of cream cheese on a halved bagel. Top the cream cheese with your child’s favorite vegetables, such as sliced cucumber, red pepper, and lettuce. You can also add a sprinkle of black pepper or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

Pack the bagel sandwich in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. This sandwich is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious and filling lunch option for your child.

14. Pasta Primavera with a Twist

Pasta primavera with a twist is a colorful and flavorful lunch option perfect for school. To make pasta primavera, cook your child’s favorite pasta according to the package instructions and let it cool. While the pasta cooks sauté fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes in a pan with some olive oil until they are tender. Once the vegetables are cooked, toss them with the cooked pasta and a drizzle of olive oil.

Add grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor. Pack the pasta primavera in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. This pasta dish is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

15. Rainbow Vegetable Spring Rolls

Rainbow vegetable spring rolls are a colorful and refreshing lunch option perfect for school. To make rainbow vegetable spring rolls, soak rice paper wrappers in warm water until they are pliable. Once the wrappers are ready, fill them with various sliced vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumber, carrots, and lettuce. Roll up the wrappers tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, to form spring rolls.

Serve the spring rolls with a side of peanut sauce for dipping. Pack the spring rolls and peanut sauce in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These spring rolls are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nutritious and refreshing lunch option for your child.

16. Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto pasta salad with cherry tomatoes is a flavorful and satisfying lunch option perfect for school. To make pesto pasta salad, cook your child’s favorite pasta according to the package instructions and let it cool. While cooking the pasta, make a homemade pesto sauce by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.

Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce and halved cherry tomatoes. Add diced mozzarella cheese or sliced black olives for extra flavor. Pack the pesto pasta salad in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. This salad is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with flavor, protein, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

17. Veggie Pizza Muffins

Veggie pizza muffins are a fun and portable lunch option that is perfect for school. To make them, start by preparing a basic muffin batter using flour, baking powder, eggs, milk, and a little olive oil. Once the batter is ready, fold in your child’s favorite pizza toppings, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives. Spoon the batter into muffin cups and top each with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Bake the muffins in the oven until they are golden and cooked through. Pack the pizza muffins in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These muffins are not only delicious, but they are also packed with flavor, vegetables, and protein, making them a nutritious and kid-friendly lunch option.

18. Beet and Goat Cheese Wrap

Beet and goat cheese wraps are a colorful and flavorful lunch option perfect for school. To make them, roast or steam beets until they are tender. Once the beets are cooked and cooled, slice them into thin rounds. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese on a tortilla, then top it with the beet slices and some fresh greens.

Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Pack the beet and goat cheese wraps in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These wraps are not only delicious, but they are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious and vibrant lunch option for your child.

19. Zucchini Noodle Salad

Zucchini noodle salad is a light and refreshing lunch option that is perfect for school. To make zucchini noodle salad, use a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles. Toss the zucchini noodles with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.

Pack the zucchini noodle salad in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. This salad is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritious and hydrating lunch option for your child.

20. Falafel Balls with Tzatziki Sauce

Falafel balls with tzatziki sauce are a flavorful and protein-packed lunch option perfect for school. To make falafel balls, combine canned chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, garlic, cumin, and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and forms a thick dough. Shape the dough into small balls and bake them in the oven until golden and crispy.

While the falafel balls are baking, prepare a simple tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Pack the falafel balls and tzatziki sauce in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These falafel balls are not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making them a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

21. Mushroom and Spinach Quiche Cups

Mushroom and spinach quiche cups are a savory and satisfying lunch option perfect for school. To make mushroom and spinach quiche cups, start by sautéing sliced mushrooms and chopped spinach in a pan with a bit of olive oil until tender. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, grated cheese, and salt and pepper. Grease a muffin tin and divide the mushroom and spinach mixture evenly among the cups.

Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and bake in the oven until the quiche cups are set and golden. Pack the quiche cups in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These quiche cups are not only delicious, but they are also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

22. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Baked sweet potato wedges are a flavorful and nutritious lunch option, perfect for school. To make baked sweet potato wedges, cut a sweet potato into wedges, toss them with a bit of olive oil and your child’s favorite seasonings, and bake them in the oven until they are tender and crispy. You can serve the sweet potato wedges with a side of ketchup or a homemade dipping sauce, such as a yogurt and herb dip or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Pack the sweet potato wedges and dipping sauce in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These sweet potato wedges are not only delicious, but they are also packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

23. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze are a fresh and flavorful lunch option perfect for school. To make them, thread cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle the skewers with a balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it thickens and becomes syrupy.

Pack the caprese skewers in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These skewers are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious and refreshing lunch option for your child.

24. Vegan Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Vegan chocolate avocado mousse is a rich and creamy dessert option perfect for school. To make it, blend ripe avocados, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a food processor until smooth and creamy. You can also add a pinch of salt for extra flavor. Spoon the mousse into small containers and refrigerate until set.

Pack the vegan chocolate avocado mousse in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold. This mousse is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with healthy fats and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and satisfying dessert option for your child.

25. Apple and Peanut Butter Slices

Apple and peanut butter slices are a simple and nutritious snack option that is perfect for school. To make apple and peanut butter slices, slice an apple into thin rounds. Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on one side of each apple slice. You can also sprinkle the peanut butter with a bit of cinnamon or granola for extra flavor and crunch.

Pack the apple and peanut butter slices in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. This snack is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making it a nutritious and energizing option for your child.

26. Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Cheesy broccoli bites are a flavorful and nutritious finger food option perfect for school. To make cheesy broccoli bites, steam or blanch broccoli florets until tender but still slightly crisp. In a separate bowl, mix cooked and mashed sweet potato, grated cheese, bread crumbs, and chopped broccoli. Shape the mixture into small balls and bake them in the oven until golden and crispy.

Pack the cheesy broccoli bites in a lunchbox and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. These bites are not only delicious, but they are also packed with vitamins, fiber, and calcium, making them a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

27. Cucumber Sandwiches with Dill Cream Cheese

Cucumber sandwiches with dill cream cheese are a refreshing and flavorful lunch option perfect for school. To make cucumber sandwiches, spread a thin layer of dill cream cheese on a slice of bread. Top the cream cheese with thinly sliced cucumber and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place another slice of bread on top and press down gently.

Cut the sandwich into halves or quarters and pack it in a lunchbox. These sandwiches are not only delicious but also packed with hydration, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious and refreshing lunch option for your child.

28. Mixed Berry and Chia Seed Jam Sandwich

Mixed berry and chia seed jam sandwiches are a sweet and nutritious lunch option perfect for school. To make mixed berry and chia seed jam, blend fresh or frozen mixed berries with a little honey or maple syrup until smooth. Stir in chia seeds and let the mixture sit in the fridge until it thickens and becomes jam-like. Spread a thin layer of the jam on a slice of whole-grain bread.

Top with another slice of bread and press down gently. Cut the sandwich into halves or quarters and pack it in a lunchbox. These sandwiches are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutritious and satisfying lunch option for your child.

29. Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy and protein-packed snack that can easily be a hit in any lunchbox. Seasoned with herbs and spices, they offer a flavorful and satisfying munch. Perfect for boosting energy levels during busy school days, these little gems are simple to make ahead in large batches.

A healthy alternative to traditional chips, roasted chickpeas are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy their crispy goodness any time of the day.

30. Veggie Loaded Mac ‘n’ Cheese

For a twist on the classic mac ‘n’ cheese, try adding a variety of veggies to boost the nutritional value of this beloved comfort food. Load your mac ‘n’ cheese with colorful vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.

The combination of cheesy goodness and the goodness of veggies makes this dish a hit among kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients while indulging in a delicious meal.

Conclusion

As you explore these 30 simple vegetarian school lunch ideas, remember that providing nutritious and delicious meals for your child is key to their overall health and well-being. From quinoa salads to veggie sushi rolls, these options are not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients. By incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables and protein sources, you can ensure your child receives a well-rounded meal that energizes them throughout the day. Experiment with combinations to keep lunchtime exciting and enjoyable for your little one. Making vegetarian lunches fun and tasty is a great way to encourage healthy eating habits early on!

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