July 25, 2022
updated
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Let me show you how to pack a kid’s protein snack bento box that will make them forget all about the store-bought options.
Thanks to a compartmentalized snack container and simple ingredients, you can assemble one of these boxes in a cinch. Let’s get started!
Healthy Protein Bento Box
Who doesn’t love a little variety at snack time? Good thing this healthy protein box offers just that plus, 17.5 grams of protein from ingredients like beef (or turkey) jerky, sliced cheese, and fresh fruit!
It couldn’t be any easier to make, and you can store these boxes in the fridge for a couple of days, so you have a quick option to pack in the lunch bag.
While it is a snack, you could easily turn this into a satiating lunch by adding whole grain crackers, veggies, and hard-boiled eggs. It’s that simple, and all of the protein and fiber will keep your child energized and satiated through the afternoon.
What is in a Protein Snack Box
The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating a protein snack bento box, so I’ll go over all the elements you need to make this one happen:
- protein: this box features beef jerky links, but you could opt for turkey jerky or rolled deli cuts.
- fruit: make this with grapes and berries or any fruit you have available.
- healthy bites: sliced or cubed cheese is a great option, as well as hard-boiled eggs or nuts.
Want more simple and fresh ideas to pack in the lunch bag? I’ve got you covered:
101 Packed Lunches eBook
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How to Pack a Protein Snack Bento Box?
Whether you want to make this protein box as a snack or lunch, here’s how to assemble the ingredients, so everything stays fresh:
- Prep
Wash the fruit and slice the cheese into squares. - Tip
If you can’t find beef or turkey jerky in small links, carefully cut a larger link into 1-inch pieces with kitchen scissors or a pairing knife. - Wet ingredients together
The fruit and protein can be packed into the same compartment. - Keep dry ingredients separate
Place the cheese and ingredients like crackers and chips in separate compartments, so they don’t absorb moisture. - Prepare for take-off
Close the container, and pack it in a lunch bag with an ice pack.
How to turn this snack box into a lunch
With just a few additions, this snack box can be a filling lunch everyone will enjoy! Add hard-boiled eggs, your favorite veggies, and whole-grain crackers. Want to add a dip? Go ahead! Dips like hummus or sauces must be packed in their own leak-proof container, so everything stays in its place until lunchtime.
You can also pack a healthy treat, like this Blueberry Yogurt Parfait or this Chocolate Avocado Pudding.
Want a sturdy snack container like the one in this post? You’ll find my favorite option here.
Tips for packing the perfect snack box for kids
Meal prep
You can assemble this snack box completely ahead of time and store it in the fridge to enjoy during the week. But why prepare one when you can make more at once? Save time and prep enough for a few days!
Swap ingredients
What makes homemade snack boxes so easy and convenient is that you don’t need to stick to the list of ingredients. No grapes or blueberries? Add sliced banana, apple, pear, carrots, or other berries. No beef jerky? Grab deli cuts or turkey jerky, and that’s all!
Make it dairy-free
If your child can’t eat cheese, add a hard-boiled egg or nuts instead. Both are healthy fats they will enjoy eating!
Protein Snack Box for Kids
Ingredients
- ½ cup blueberries
- 1 cup grapes
- 1 slice of cheese, cut into squares
- 1- ounce beef jerky
Instructions
- Wash the fruit. Slice the cheese into small squares and cut the jerky links into 1-inch pieces.
- Add the jerky and fruit into a snack box. Pack the cheese into a separate compartment, so it stays fresh.
- Close the container and place it in a lunch bag with an ice pack.
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