Back to School lunch ideas: 3 fast, easy and healthy recipes

When the school year kicks back into gear, lunch preparation can become one of the most stressful parts of the day. These 3 fast, easy and healthy back to school lunch ideas are perfect for both school-age kids and busy college students. 

Best of all, they’re portable, easy to store, and designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Caprese Chicken Wrap with Basil Pesto

The classic Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is transformed into a portable wrap with the addition of lean chicken breast and a light pesto spread.

Caprese Chicken Wrap with Basil Pesto

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 whole wheat or spinach tortilla

• 3 oz cooked chicken breast, sliced thin

• 3 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

• 3–4 slices ripe tomato (or cherry tomatoes, halved)

• 1 tablespoon basil pesto

• A handful of fresh spinach or arugula

• Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Lay the tortilla flat and spread the basil pesto evenly.

2. Layer spinach/arugula, chicken, mozzarella, and tomatoes.

3. If desired, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze.

4. Roll tightly and slice in half.

5. Wrap in parchment or foil for easy transport.

   
   

Pasta Salad alla Mediterranea in a Mason Jar

Pasta Salad alla Mediterranea in a Mason Jar

Inspired by Southern Italian flavors, this Mediterranean pasta salad is layered in a mason jar for freshness. Perfect for meal prep: make 3–4 jars on Sunday and have lunch ready for most of the week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rotini or farfalle pasta

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ¼ cup black olives, sliced

• ¼ cup roasted red peppers, diced 

• ¼ cup artichoke hearts, chopped (optional)

• ¼ cup cubed provolone cheese

• ½ cup chickpeas (canned, drained, rinsed)

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano in a small bowl.

2. In a mason jar, layer dressing first, then chickpeas, roasted peppers, artichokes, olives, and tomatoes.

3. Add pasta and top with provolone and parsley.

4. Seal and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Shake before eating.

Lunch Box with Prosciutto, Cheese, and Fruit

This fast and healthy Italian-inspired lunch box is a lifesaver for mornings when there’s no time to cook. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and a mix of sweet and savory flavors.

Lunch Box with Prosciutto, Cheese and Fruit

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 3–4 slices prosciutto or turkey prosciutto

• 1 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or string cheese

• A small handful of grapes or apple slices

• A small handful of whole grain crackers or breadsticks (grissini)

• 5–6 cherry tomatoes

• Optional: a few olives or a mini container of hummus

Instructions

1. Arrange all ingredients in a compartment lunchbox or bento box.

2. Keep crackers/breadsticks in a separate bag to avoid moisture.

3. Refrigerate until ready to eat.

Meal Prep & Storage Hacks

1. Batch cook proteins: Grill chicken or roast vegetables in bulk for multiple lunches.

2. Use freezer-friendly breads/wraps: Freeze and thaw overnight to prevent waste.

3. Keep Italian pantry staples stocked: Olive oil, pesto, pasta, canned tomatoes, and olives last long and add instant flavor.

4. Invest in quality containers:  Leak-proof mason jars, bento boxes, and thermoses keep food fresh.

5. Prep fresh herbs ahead: Chop basil or parsley, store in ice cube trays with olive oil, and freeze.

To sum, with just a few touches like fresh herbs, mozzarella, olive oil, and colorful vegetables, you can turn ordinary meals into a fast, healthy and easy lunch. The Caprese chicken wrap, Pasta salad alla Mediterranea, and an easy lunch box are fast and easy to prepare; healthy and balanced for lasting energy, making them the perfect back-to-school lunch solution.

Next time you’re staring at an empty lunchbox or rushing out the door, remember: an Italian-style lunch is just minutes away.