Twists on Classic Lunchbox Sandwiches

Your favorite standbys are getting kid-friendly makeovers, which means lunchtime will be a surprise for your student — and packing will be more fun for you.

Food Stylist: Anne Disrude 
Prop Stylist: Pam Morris

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Food Stylist: Anne Disrude Prop Stylist: Pam Morris ,Food Stylist: Anne Disrude Prop Stylist: Pam Morris

Photo by: Yunhee Kim

Yunhee Kim

If there comes a point during the school year when you just can’t make another PB&J, try a twist on a classic. Your favorite standbys are getting kid-friendly makeovers, which means lunchtime will be a surprise for your student — and packing will be more fun for you. Try one of these new sandwiches to add some variety to your kid’s lunchbox. 

Chicken Salad Sandwiches (pictured above)

Perhaps the best lunchtime twist of all is a sandwich your kid can make himself. Guy Fieri’s son Hunter created this chicken salad sandwich that he packs for lunch three times a week. You’ll combine chopped chicken with creamy mayo and zingy mustard for a quick chicken salad that’s great in a whole-wheat sourdough roll. It’s so easy, your kid can do it!

Food Styling - Jamie Kimm
Prop Styling - Marina Malchin

Turkey Reuben_027.tif

Food Styling - Jamie Kimm Prop Styling - Marina Malchin,Food Styling - Jamie KimmProp Styling - Marina Malchin

Amp up your child’s favorite turkey sandwich by serving it Reuben style. Melted Swiss cheese is mild enough for tiny taste buds, and a sliced apple adds a crisp, sweet crunch. Finish this sandwich by piling it high with cooked sauerkraut. Sandwich everything between two slices of seedless rye bread and your kiddo is ready to go.

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Photo by: Kat Teutsch

Kat Teutsch

Instead of making a PB&J on white bread, use a crepe. Make the crepes ahead of time and fill them with peanut butter, berry jam and fresh blueberries throughout the week. Get your kids involved by allowing them to fill and roll their own crepes the night before. They’ll be even more excited for lunch when they get to eat their creations the next day.

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Photo by: Christopher Testani ©Christopher Testani 2013

Christopher Testani , Christopher Testani 2013

Try this tangy twist on your favorite ham and cheese sandwich. You’ll mash goat cheese with chopped pepitas and hot sauce to spread on a slice of whole-grain bread. Then, layer ham, arugula and avocado on the bread with the cheese mixture and top with another slice of bread. This is perfect for bigger kids who want an upgrade from their elementary school staple.

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