Save A fun, customizable tray of kid-friendly meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruit, perfect for easy packed lunches or snacks.
I first made these DIY Lunchables trays when my kids wanted a lunch like their classmates but with fresher ingredients. It's become our go-to snack for road trips and picnics.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 100 g sliced turkey breast, 100 g sliced ham, 100 g mild cheddar cheese (sliced), 100 g mozzarella cheese (cubed)
- Carbohydrates: 24 whole wheat crackers, 2 mini pita breads (cut into wedges, optional)
- Fruits & Vegetables: 1 cup seedless grapes, 1 cup baby carrots, 1 cup cucumber slices
- Treat (optional): 4 mini chocolate squares or 4 small cookies
Instructions
- Arrange proteins:
- Arrange equal portions of turkey, ham, cheddar, and mozzarella in four compartmentalized containers or lunchboxes.
- Add carbs:
- Add 6 crackers and a few pita wedges (if using) to each tray.
- Add fruits & veg:
- Divide grapes, carrots, and cucumber slices evenly among the trays.
- Include treat:
- Add a mini chocolate square or cookie as a treat, if desired.
- Seal & chill:
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Consume within 3 days for best freshness.
Save My kids love assembling their own trays during family movie nights. It's a hit for playdates, too.
Required Tools
Cutting board, sharp knife, lunchboxes or compartmentalized containers
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese), wheat (crackers, pita), and possibly soy. May contain traces of nuts depending on brands.
Nutritional Information
Per tray (without treat): 310 calories, 12 g total fat, 29 g carbohydrates, 20 g protein
Save DIY Lunchables trays keep lunch exciting and empower kids to make healthy choices. Try packaging with a small yogurt for extra protein.
Kitchen Guide
- → What proteins work best in these trays?
Sliced turkey breast, ham, and mild cheddar or mozzarella provide a balanced mix, but you can swap with roast chicken, Swiss cheese, or provolone.
- → Can these trays be made vegetarian?
Yes, substitute meats with hummus, hard-boiled eggs, or plant-based deli slices for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- → What fruits and vegetables are suggested?
Seedless grapes, baby carrots, and cucumber slices are great choices, though cherry tomatoes or apple slices make excellent alternatives.
- → How should these trays be stored?
Cover and refrigerate the trays, consuming within three days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → Are there any allergen concerns to note?
These trays contain milk, wheat, and possibly soy; check ingredient labels, especially for crackers and cookies, for potential nut traces.
- → What tools are needed to prepare the trays?
A cutting board, sharp knife, and compartmentalized containers or lunchboxes simplify preparation and presentation.