Summer is fast fading and the kids are back in school. As much as the kids are getting ready for a different routine ( read getting up early, groan) the parents are stocking their refrigerators with possible lunch items. Will it be a sandwich today or a bagel? Will it be parathas or idlis ?
I asked a few moms what they packed for their kids for lunch and the answers I got were;

•    I make sure my daughter has a slice of  cheese, bread with peanut butter or jelly, a fruit and a drink
•    What do I pack ? Maybe a turkey sandwich, cheese sticks, Yoplait and cookie.
•    Hmm ! My son has a big appetite so I pack him a burger or bagel with cream cheese, yoghurt and a drink and also a dollar for snack.

Here are other suggestions compiled from other sources.

 Think about different types of bread for sandwiches and dippers. Try crackers, mini waffles, rice cakes, mini croissants, pita bread, mini muffins, small bagels, tortillas, focaccia, raisin or cinnamon bread.

Salsa, hummus, bean dips, or fruit dips with baked chips and veggies or fruit are good lunchbox choices, since these foods contain more vitamins and fiber.

 Chicken Wrap
Ingredients:
1 leftover chicken breast (boneless)
2 tbsp reduced fat mayonnaise
2 tbsp tomato ketchup
25 gms shredded lettuce
Chapattis or tortillas
Some butter

Method:
A great way to use up leftover chicken. Shred or finely chop the chicken breast. Mix in mayonnaise and tomato ketchup and toss in shredded lettuce. Spread the chapattis or tortillas with softened butter and spoon in the chicken mixture.

Veggie Wraps
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapenos
2 cups coleslaw or cucumbers & carrots minced
1 tomato, seeded and chopped
8 flour tortillas

Method:
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine cheese, veggie salad or slaw and tomato. Divide among the flour tortillas. Roll up tortillas, folding in ends. Place seam side down on ungreased cookie sheet and cover with foil. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted. Serve with salsa or ranch dressing for dipping, if desired. 

If you have any lunch ideas share it with us at editors@lokvani.com with the subject message as school lunches. The best idea will be featured in our next issue.

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