Coming up with lunch ideas for teens feels like trying to please a panel of picky food critics.
It must be cool enough for their friends to envy, tasty enough for them to eat, and quick enough for us to make.
Lucky for you (and your sanity), I’ve rounded up some awesome lunch ideas that are easy, healthy, and sure to win the seal of approval from even the toughest teen critics.
1. Farmers Market Orzo Salad
This colorful and flavorful salad is a hit for teens who love fresh, vibrant meals. Cooked orzo pasta is mixed with various fresh farmers’ market veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
Toss everything with olive oil and lemon juice dressing, then sprinkle on some feta cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Not only does it taste amazing, but it also packs well in a lunchbox and keeps its texture.
Bonus points: it’s as healthy as it is Instagram-worthy!
2. Turkey Florentine Sandwiches
This sandwich is like a portable slice of Italian café heaven. Start with crusty ciabatta or your teen’s favorite bread.
Layer it with turkey, fresh spinach, mozzarella cheese, and a little garlic aioli or pesto.
Toast it to melt the cheese and bring out the flavors. It’s hearty enough to satisfy their hunger while still feeling fancy.
Whether it’s a school lunch or a weekend treat, this one is a surefire hit.
3. Turkey Gyros
These are perfect for teens who love bold, fresh flavors. Start with a soft pita and layer it with slices of turkey, crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce.
Add a sprinkle of feta or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zing.
The best part? You can wrap them tightly in foil for easy packing. They’re healthy, and filling, and bring a Mediterranean vibe to the lunch table.
4. Tomato-garlic Lentil Bowls
Lentils might seem like an unusual choice for teens, but this recipe changes the game.
Cooked lentils are paired with roasted garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Add a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a burst of flavor. Serve it warm or cold—it’s delicious either way.
Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a power meal that will keep your teen full and focused.
5. California Roll in a Jar
This creative take on sushi is both fun and functional. Layer sushi rice, imitation crab, avocado, and cucumber in a mason jar.
Top it off with soy sauce, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of spicy mayo if they’re feeling adventurous.
It’s a portable, mess-free way to enjoy all the flavors of a California roll without the hassle of rolling sushi. Trust me, this one will get their friends asking for the recipe.
6. Berry Turkey Sandwich
This sandwich is a sweet and savory masterpiece. Start with multigrain bread and spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each slice.
Add layers of sliced turkey and fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries.
The berries add a burst of sweetness and color, making this sandwich a fun twist on the usual turkey lunch.
Plus, it’s loaded with antioxidants and protein, so you’ll feel good about packing it.
7. Deli Turkey Lettuce Wraps
If your teen isn’t a fan of bread, these lettuce wraps are a lifesaver. Lay out large lettuce leaves and fill them with deli turkey, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and a smear of mustard or mayo.
Roll them up tightly, and you’ve got a crunchy, low-carb option that’s big on flavor.
They’re super easy to make, and you can mix up the fillings to keep things interesting.
8. Chicken Pitas
Pita pockets are perfect for stuffing, and this chicken pita recipe is no exception.
Fill a whole wheat pita with grilled chicken strips, a generous scoop of hummus, shredded lettuce, and sliced cucumbers.
For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit of tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce. It’s filling, easy to handle, and has a Mediterranean twist that’s hard to resist.
9. Turkey Lunch-Box Wraps
These wraps are a simple yet delicious option for busy mornings. Spread cream cheese on a tortilla, layer on turkey, fresh spinach leaves, and a slice of cheddar cheese.
Roll it up tightly, then slice it into pinwheels for bite-sized fun. They’re easy to grab, easy to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser.
10. Blue Cheese Chicken Salad Sandwiches
This one’s for the adventurous eaters. Shredded chicken is mixed with blue cheese crumbles, a bit of mayo or Greek yogurt, and a touch of Dijon mustard.
Spread the mixture on a buttery croissant or whole-grain bread.
The bold flavors and creamy texture make this sandwich stand out, and it’s sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.
11. Turkey & Apricot Wraps
This sweet and savory combo is a winner. Spread cream cheese on a tortilla, add slices of turkey and thinly sliced dried apricots, then roll it up tightly.
The creaminess of the cheese paired with the sweetness of the apricots creates a perfect balance.
Slice into pinwheels or leave it whole—either way, it’s a fresh and exciting option.
12. Yellow Squash Turkey Salad
For something a little different, try this turkey salad with a veggie twist.
Dice up yellow squash and mix it with chopped turkey, a dollop of mayo, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
Add a bit of lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor. It’s a healthy, refreshing salad that’s easy to scoop into a container for lunch.
13. Tuna Wrap
This classic gets a modern upgrade. Mix tuna with mayo, a bit of Dijon mustard, and some diced celery for crunch. Spread it on a tortilla, add shredded lettuce, and roll it up.
For an extra kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy school days.
14. Mexican Roasted Potato Salad
This hearty salad is packed with bold flavors. Roasted potatoes are tossed with black beans, corn, and a zesty lime-cilantro dressing. Add a sprinkle of chili powder for some spice.
It’s filling enough to be a meal on its own and is great for teens who love Mexican-inspired dishes.
15. Turkey Pinwheels
Pinwheels are always a hit because they’re fun to eat and easy to make.
Spread cream cheese on a tortilla, layer turkey and spinach, then roll it up tightly. Slice into bite-sized pieces, and you’re done.
These are great for teens who like finger foods and make for a visually appealing lunch option.
So, what’s the verdict?
Lunch for teens doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. With these easy, healthy, and quick lunch ideas, you’ll have plenty of options to keep them happy and fueled throughout the day.
Get ready to pack those lunchboxes like a pro—you’ve got this!