The kids are back in school, which means it’s time to get creative with healthy lunch ideas. We understand that parents often struggle to come up with new and exciting lunch ideas that are both healthy and affordable, so we’ve come up with 5 back-to-school lunch ideas under $5.
Note: Costs were calculated on August 29, 2023 utilizing prices from popular discount grocery stores in the Greater Toronto Area.
Egg Salad Sandwich
An egg salad sandwich is a delicious, budget-friendly way to provide your kids with the carbs and protein they need to stay energized and satisfied throughout the day.
When making an egg salad sandwich for your kids, consider swapping mayo for Greek yogurt to up the protein (learn about the benefits of protein here). Add whole-grain bread for extra fibre to help with digestion, and add vegetables like chopped celery to the egg salad to introduce additional nutrients and a satisfying crunch.
In the Lunchbox
- Egg salad sandwich
- Cucumber slices
- Apple
- Yogurt cup
Cost Breakdown
|
Egg salad sandwich |
$2.21 |
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|
Boiled eggs (2) |
$0.64 |
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|
Greek yogurt (1/4 cup) |
$0.38 |
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|
Mustard (1 tsp) |
$0.02 |
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|
Chopped celery (1 stick) |
$0.60 |
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|
Whole-grain bread (2) |
$0.57 |
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|
Sliced cucumber (1/4) |
$0.37 |
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|
Apple |
$1.15 |
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|
Yogurt cup |
$0.33 |
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|
Total |
$4.06 |
Bento Box
If your kids are picky, packing hard-boiled eggs with veggies and whole-grain crackers on the side is a great way to let them control how they eat their lunch while still getting the healthy foods they need throughout the day. It’s also quick and easy to put together when you’re in a rush.
In the Lunchbox
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- Sliced carrots, cucumbers and grape tomatoes
- Whole-grain crackers
- Hummus
- Tangerine
Cost Breakdown
|
Boiled Eggs (2) |
$0.64 |
||
|
Sliced Veggies |
$1.47 |
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|
Carrots (100g) |
$0.22 |
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|
Cucumbers (1/4) |
$0.37 |
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|
Cherry Tomatoes (100g) |
$0.88 |
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|
Whole-Grain Crackers (50g) |
$0.83 |
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|
Hummus |
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