When you’re running from the copier to recess duty and back again, it’s easy to fall back on fast-food teacher lunches and granola bars wolfed down in the car. We get it. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for better ideas that are inexpensive, easy to pack, and nutritious too. These teachers showed us how it’s done.
1. Greek yogurt personal pan pizzas
Because pizza is always a good idea.
Source: @teachertastes
2. Lots of nibbles
Who says you have to pack a sandwich or leftovers? Snacks FTW.
Source: @thepinspiredteacher
3. Mac + cheese
It’s not just for kids! Mix in some peas or broccoli and pack some raw veggies or fruit on the side for a healthy twist.
Source: @taylorcaitlyn_
4. Salads in a jar
We love all the clever variations on these portable, prepable salads.
Source: @ericabohrer
5. Chickpea salad
For when you’re tired of both chicken and tuna salad. Pack some crackers to go with it for an extra-special lunchtime treat.
Source: @getbusyteaching
6. Sheet pan meal prep
You had me at sheet pan.
Source: @teachertastes
7. A hearty veggie soup
This is great for quick and healthy lunches throughout the week.
Source: @katienorris27
8. When in doubt, go simple
Simple doesn’t have to mean boring! Sometimes the best lunches are those that rely on easy, wholesome ingredients.
Source: @teacherandtoddlermeals
9. Chicken tikka masala
BRB, drooling.
Source: @themindfuleducator
10. Couscous and veggies
Served cold or warm, this combination makes for a great salad that will fill you up.
Source: @let.a.girl.eat
11. Breakfast for lunch
This is inspired.
Source: @kate_in_the_kitchen
12. Individual quiches
Imagine opening your lunch box and seeing this beauty waiting for you.
Source: @teachingtable
13. Pasta to go
Standing on your feet all day does require carb loading.
Source: @millennialmusicteacher
14. Greek tuna salads
Feta and lemon jazz up tuna salad. Stuff it in a pita or eat it out of the bowl!
Source: @captivatescience
15. A protein-and-veggie bowl
It doesn’t get any easier than this. A variety of your favorite vegetables, a little protein, a little Greek yogurt, and you’re good to go.
Source: @comprehensibleclassroom
16. Roasted-cauliflower taco bowls
Literally salivating.
Source: @budgetbytes
17. A rainbow of veggies
Get your colors in.
Source: @heymissreception
18. Wrap it up
Switch up your sandwich.
Source: @teacherandtoddlermeals
19. Mini cheese board
It’s like your own personal charcuterie platter.
Source: @easylunchboxes
20. Burger bowls
You heard me.
Source: @teachertastes
21. Corn salsa and chipotle chicken bowls
Pretty confident I would eat all five of these meal-prep bowls on a Monday.
Source: @teachertastes
22. Chicken gyros
I want to be this teacher’s friend.
Source: @carollovescupcakes
23. Stir-fried goodness
Beats whatever they’re serving in the cafeteria.
Source: @archers_all_stars
24. Beef with Brussels sprouts
This easy two-ingredient lunch will have you counting down the seconds until you can eat it.
Source: @gettingfitwithlusee
25. Ravioli sandwiches
Plus lots of other yummy things … but the world’s cutest mini sandwiches.
Source: @schoollunchbox
What’s your favorite teacher lunch? Share with us in the comments!
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These are great ideas! I just wish recipes were included for a cooking novice like me 🙁 At least for the stir fry, gyro, chicken masala, and potato soup…