Six genius ideas to transform leftovers and cupboard stables into exciting lunchbox meals that your kids will love
THE summer term may have only just begun, but if you're already sick of making the same old sandwiches, we've got the answer.
These genius ideas transform leftovers and cupboard staples into exciting lunchbox meals that kids will actually eat.
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CHIP 'N' DIP: Revive stale pitta bread by cutting each one into triangles and air-frying until crisp.
Blend chickpeas with lemon, garlic and tahini for instant hummus, or mix yoghurt with grated cucumber and mint for a refreshing tzatziki. Add veg sticks for crunch.
SALAD SAVER: Whip up speedy couscous following packet instructions and then mix with chopped roast veggies from last night's roast.
Add a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice to bring it together and leave to cool. Pop portions in airtight containers for lunch boxes.
TORTILLA TREAT: Rescue limp tortilla wraps by filling with grated cheese and mashed beans, then fold and dry-fry until golden. Cut into wedges and pop into a lunchbox.
They're perfect cold and packed with protein.
GRATE IDEA: Make mini frittatas by adding leftover veg to whisked egg and crumbling or grating cheese into the mixture.
Pour into a muffin tin and grate more cheese over the top before baking for 5-10 mins on a low heat. Once cooled, store in an airtight container.
WRAP IT UP: You might already have rice papers in the cupboard, but if not you can pick up packs of them for around £1.50 in specialist Asian supermarkets.
Soak rice papers briefly in warm water, then fill with leftovers from dinner — veggies and leftover meat work well.
RICE BITES: Mix tinned tuna with cooked rice, an egg and breadcrumbs, then shape into patties.
Fry until golden and leave to cool. Can be eaten hot or cold and the protein will keep kids full till dinner.
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