Nutritious and Delicious Back-to-School Recipes

As summer winds down and the school year ramps up, the hustle and bustle of morning routines, packed lunches, and after-school snacks return. Ensuring that kids (and parents!) get nutritious, energy-boosting meals can set the tone for productive days ahead. 

To make this transition smoother, here are three delectable back-to-school recipes that are not only healthy but also easy to prepare. 

Let's dive in!

Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels

Bright, colorful, and packed with nutrients, these pinwheels are a fun way to incorporate veggies into your child's diet. The Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels recipe comes from the My Plant Based Family blog. The recipe has a total cook time of 15 minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 large wheat tortillas
• 1 cup hummus
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin
• 2 carrots, shredded or matchsticks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced thin
• 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup purple cabbage, sliced thin or shredded

Instructions

1. Spread about ¼ cup hummus over each tortilla. Leave room on the edge. 
2. Arrange the veggies on the hummus covered tortillas (in the order of the rainbow).
3. Roll up each tortilla tightly.
4. Cut crosswise into pinwheels and serve.

Tip: For a protein boost, add sliced turkey or chicken before rolling.

Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are perfect for busy mornings or a quick after-school refuel. The Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Bites recipe comes from Tasty and makes 4 servings. The recipe has a total cook time of 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry oat
• ¼ cup almond butter
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 banana
• ½ cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Mix oats, almond butter and honey in a large bowl.
2. Mash the banana, then add it into the bowl of oats.
3. Add chocolate chips. Mix.
4. Place bowl in the refrigerator for 60-90 minutes, or until the mixture has solidified.
5. Mold mixture into bite-sized balls.
6. Serve immediately.
7. Enjoy!

These bites are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them a wholesome choice for sustained energy.

Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Quesadillas

A delightful blend of cheese, chicken, and veggies, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit. The Chicken Broccoli Quesadillas recipe comes from the Life Made Simple blog and makes one serving. The recipe has a 9 minute prep time and a 6 minute cook time for a total cook time of 15 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 tablespoon butter
• 2/3 c. grated colby jack cheese
• 1/4 cup broccoli - cut into small florets and steamed
• 1/4 c. diced grilled chicken or pulled rotisserie chicken
• pinch salt and ground black pepper
• 2 soft taco size flour tortilla - white or whole wheat

Instructions

1. In a medium nonstick skillet set over medium-low heat, add the butter. 
2. Once melted, add one tortilla. Top with half of the cheese, then spread the broccoli and grilled chicken over the top, dispersing evenly. 
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. 
4. Top with the remaining cheese, then place the remaining tortilla over the top.
5. Cook for 3 minutes on each side, or until crisp and golden outside, and melty on the inside. 
6. Remove from the skillet and let cool for 3 minutes. 
7. Use a pizza wheel or sharp knife to cut into wedges. 
8. Serve immediately.

Variation: Swap broccoli with spinach or add corn and black beans for a southwestern twist.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the back-to-school season doesn't have to mean compromising on nutrition. With a bit of creativity and preparation, you can whip up meals and snacks that are both nourishing and tantalizing to young taste buds. 

These recipes are not only packed with essential nutrients but also designed to be kid-approved. 

Here's to fueling young minds and bodies for the exciting school days ahead!

Written by: Emily Kho