Fruit and Cheese Lunch Box
A quick, nutritious, and visually appealing no-sandwich lunch option that combines protein-rich cheese, fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grain crackers. Perfect for both children and adults, this balanced meal offers variety and convenience in one simple package.
Equipment
- Bento-style or compartmentalized container
- Small containers for dips
- Silicone Cupcake Liners (optional)
Ingredients
Protein Components
- 1-2 oz cheddar cheese cubed, or substitute with mozzarella pearls for a milder option
- 1-2 oz pepper jack cheese cubed, can swap for gouda or colby for less spice
- 1 oz prosciutto or deli ham thinly sliced, optional, omit for vegetarian
Fruits and Vegetables
- 1/2 cup red grapes or green grapes for less sweetness
- 1/2 cup strawberries sliced, seasonal berries like blackberries or blueberries work wonderfully too
- 1/4 cup cucumber sliced, English cucumbers have fewer seeds and a crispier bite
- 1 small apple sliced, Honeycrisp or Gala offer the perfect balance of sweet-tart flavor
Additional Components
- 2 tbsp hummus classic or roasted red pepper for extra flavor
- 10-12 whole grain crackers can substitute with gluten-free options if needed
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for dipping, optional
- 1 small handful almonds or walnuts substitute with seeds for nut-free environments
Instructions
- Select a bento-style box or compartmentalized container to keep foods separate and appealing. Silicone cupcake liners can work as dividers in regular containers.
- Cube the cheeses into bite-sized pieces (approximately ½-inch squares). If including prosciutto or ham, fold or roll the slices into small bundles for easy grabbing.
- Thoroughly rinse all fruits and pat dry completely. For apples, toss the slices in a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning. Cut strawberries into halves or quarters depending on size.
- Place cucumber slices in one section of your container. For extra appeal, use a small cookie cutter to create fun shapes. If using hummus, place it in a small container or silicone cup to prevent spreading.
- Arrange all components in your container with visual appeal in mind. Create a color wheel effect by placing foods with contrasting colors next to each other. Keep crackers in a separate compartment to maintain crispness, and if including honey or maple syrup for dipping, use a leak-proof container.
Notes
Prep components in bulk: Cube cheese and store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
Use the "assembly line" method: Set up all containers and add components that store well. Add fresh fruits and vegetables the night before or morning of.
For maintaining temperature, freeze water bottles to act as ice packs—they'll thaw by lunchtime providing a cold drink.
Store assembled lunch boxes in the refrigerator with lids slightly ajar overnight to prevent condensation that can make crackers soggy.
Nutrition
Calories: 435kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 1.5mg
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