Four healthy back-to-school lunchbox recipes

The holiday season has sped by again and now your little ones are getting bags packed, pencils sharpened and projects frantically finished for their return to the playground. But what’s for lunch? Well, The Leisure Lounge here to share some healthy, quick ‘n’ easy ideas to liven up your kid’s lunch boxes and keep them full until home time.

Flippin’ tasty tortillas

Forget soggy egg sandwiches. A Spanish-inspired tortilla offers a tasty twist and is a great way to use up leftovers lurking in the fridge. Heat olive oil in a small non-stick frying pan. Layer 75g thinly sliced cooked potato with finely chopped onion. Beat two eggs, season with salt and pepper and stir in grated cheese. Add to the pan and cook over a low heat for 6-8 minutes. Finish under a medium grill to ensure the tortilla is set.

Tip: Try adding peas or chopped peppers to boost their five-a-day.

Scrummy tuna pasta

Make use of store-cupboard staples to rustle up a hearty yet healthy pasta dish that’s delicious and nutritious.

Cook 85g pasta shapes (wholemeal is preferred), drain and set aside. Add 2 tbsp each of sweet corn and red kidney beans, plus half a tin of drained tuna. Mix 2 tbsp natural yogurt with 2 tbsp low-fat mayo. Season with salt, pepper and a pinch of mixed herbs and pour onto the pasta. Serve with a few cherry tomatoes.

Tip: Kids not feeling fishy? Substitute the tuna for a handful of chopped ham.

Perfect pitta pizzas

Who says pizza has to be unhealthy? Try healthy wholemeal pitta breads instead for a tasty treat that inspires lunchbox envy. Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Spread one pitta bread with 1 tbsp tomato purée and a sprinkle of mixed herbs. Top with sliced tomato, salami and grated cheese. Place pitta on baking sheet and cook for 8-10 minutes until the pitta is crisp and the cheese is bubbling.

Tip: Experiment with different toppings such as cooked chicken, ham, and prawns.

Banh Mi baguettes

Tantalise their taste buds with the flavours of Asia thanks to these Vietnamese-inspired baguettes.

Split a sandwich baguette along the top. Stuff with Little Gem leaves and cooked chicken. Add grated carrot, chopped spring onion and cucumber. Finish with a good dash of sweet chilli sauce, or mix with a dollop of mayo to take down the heat.

Tip: Meat-of-the-moment, pulled pork makes a tasty alternative to chicken.