We started school here on the Space Coast almost 2 weeks ago. I know that over the next couple of weeks, all schools will be back in session and, as everyone is beginning to head back to class, I wanted to spend the week focusing on some healthy tips to get the year started off right.

LUNCH BOX HERO

So, are you a lunch box hero? Or are you a lunch box villain? While the standard PB&J is a great stand-by for our kids’ lunchboxes, mixing things up makes for an exciting lunchtime.  They anxiously open their superhero or princess lunchbox, wondering what Mommy has packed them for the day. Here are a few ideas that I like to use…

Mediterranean Pasta Salad – Finely dice red peppers, onion, and fresh spinach. Mix them with feta, sliced black olives, and small whole grain pasta. Toss with a bit of Greek vinegarrette.

Greek Chicken Salad – pack some walnuts separately to add to the salad and serve with pita bread triangles

French Cafe -An open-faced ham,  cheese (reduced-fat), spinach, and tomato sandwich on whole grain baguette and a  fresh fruit yogurt parfait

PB & A Roll Up – Spread peanut butter on a whole grain wrap and place on apple slices, raisins, and drizzle with honey. Roll up and cut in half.

Tuna with Cucumber and Red Pepper Relish – mix 1 can drained, water-packed tuna with 1/3 cup of the relish and scoop up with brown rice chips

Cucumber and Red Pepper Relish

• 1 cucumber, finely diced
• 1 large read pepper, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• salt and pepper to taste

Add all ingredients together and cover and chill.

Check out some other lunch box ideas at Cooking Light and Sweet Greens. And don’t forget a love note 🙂