8 Lunch Recipes for Kids Who Hate Sandwiches

These baked, cornflake coated fingers are convincing fried chicken imposters for two reasons: First, they’re nice and crunchy; second, the leftovers are super good eaten cold. Tuck them confidently into your kid’s lunchbox—and don’t forget his favourite dip. Get the recipe: “Fried” Chicken Fingers

Who can say no to classic alphabet pasta? Not quite as quick as cracking a can, this homemade version has sneaky zucchini, red pepper and carrot hidden in the sauce. Make it the night before, then reheat and fill the Thermos. Get the recipe: Homemade Alphabet Pasta

This easy, creamy one-pot mac and cheese is the answer to ‘What’s for lunch?’. It cooks up in just 20 little minutes. Get the recipe: One-Pot Mac and Cheese

Potato pancakes make a pretty fun lunchbox surpise. These minis beg to be dunked in sour cream, ketchup or apple sauce. Add hummus and veggies to the mix for some protein. Get the recipe: Lacey-Edged Latkes

Here’s a modern twist on an old favourite: sweet and sour meatballs on top of steaming white rice. Hot lunches are the best lunches. Get the recipe: Sweet-and-Sour Meatballs on Rice

No need to wait for pizza day, make your own at home and send the leftovers to school. Cold pizza—this one is “ice” cold!—is actually scientifically proven to be more delicious. Get the recipe: Hockey Rink Three-Cheese Pizza

Lunch on sticks and with dip? Best! Pack these tender beef skewers with super-tasty soy-nut butter dip and your your kid will be the dip-master of the lunch room. Get the recipe: Beef Satay with Thai Dipping Sauce

This thick soup is stick-to-their-ribs hearty but not too bold in flavour. Pack with whole wheat pita and raw veggies and call it lunch. Get the recipe: Curried Lentil-Coconut Soup