Save Pin A fun, customizable tray of kid-friendly meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruit, perfect for easy packed lunches or snacks. Prep takes minutes and everyone can mix and match their favorites for a simple meal.
I started making these DIY Lunchables trays for my kids when they wanted more variety in their lunches. It's become a staple because each tray can be assembled in advance and tailored for everyone, making weekday meals much smoother.
Ingredients
- Sliced turkey breast: 100 g
- Sliced ham: 100 g
- Mild cheddar cheese, sliced: 100 g
- Mozzarella cheese, cubed: 100 g
- Whole wheat crackers: 24
- Mini pita breads (optional): 2, cut into wedges
- Seedless grapes: 1 cup
- Baby carrots: 1 cup
- Cucumber slices: 1 cup
- Mini chocolate squares or small cookies (optional): 4
Instructions
- Prepare the proteins:
- Arrange equal portions of turkey, ham, cheddar, and mozzarella in four compartmentalized containers or lunchboxes.
- Add carbohydrates:
- Add 6 crackers and a few pita wedges (if using) to each tray.
- Arrange fruits & vegetables:
- Divide grapes, carrots, and cucumber slices evenly among the trays.
- Include a treat:
- Add a mini chocolate square or cookie as a treat if desired.
- Refrigerate:
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Consume within 3 days for best freshness.
Save Pin My kids now look forward to opening their lunchboxes and trading pita wedges for grapes with each other. It's a fun routine that adds excitement to mealtime, especially when school days get hectic.
Required Tools
You'll need a cutting board, a sharp knife for slicing ingredients, and lunchboxes or compartmentalized containers to keep everything fresh and organized.
Dietary Variations
Make vegetarian trays by using hummus, hard-boiled eggs, or plant-based deli slices. Swap in gluten-free crackers or non-dairy cheeses to suit specific dietary requirements.
Nutrition Information
Each tray (without treat) supplies about 310 calories, 12 g fat, 29 g carbohydrates, and 20 g protein, making it a balanced and filling option for kids and adults alike.
Save Pin These trays make prepping lunches a breeze and help everyone enjoy nutritious, tasty food on the go.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long does it take to prepare the tray?
Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes with no cooking required.
- → What proteins are included in the tray?
Sliced turkey breast, ham, mild cheddar, and mozzarella cheese form the protein base.
- → Can the tray be customized for dietary restrictions?
Yes, meats and cheeses can be swapped, and vegetarian options like hummus or plant-based slices can be used.
- → What fruits and vegetables are included?
Seedless grapes, baby carrots, and cucumber slices make up the fresh produce.
- → How should the trays be stored?
Cover and refrigerate trays, consuming within three days to maintain freshness.
- → Are there any allergens to be aware of?
Trays contain milk, wheat, and possibly soy; tester cautions about nut traces depending on brands.