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Fresh Rainbow Summer Lunch

Fresh Rainbow Summer Lunch - featured image
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A colorful, simple, and healthy summer lunch packed with fresh veggies, protein, and a zesty dressing that kids love. Perfect for quick preparation and vibrant presentation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
  • 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled into ribbons or thinly sliced
  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach or mixed greens
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas or black beans
  • 4 oz grilled chicken strips or turkey slices (optional)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbles or shredded mozzarella (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or mint, optional)
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sunflower or pumpkin seeds
  • Whole grain pita or flatbread, sliced (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Wash all produce thoroughly. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the yellow bell pepper, and slice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Use a vegetable peeler to create thin carrot ribbons and finely shred the purple cabbage.
  3. Place all the veggies into a large mixing bowl and toss gently to combine.
  4. If using grilled chicken or turkey, season lightly with salt and pepper and cook on a grill pan over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side. Let rest and slice into thin strips.
  5. If using chickpeas or black beans, rinse and drain well.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if using.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
  8. Add the protein and cheese if using, and toss lightly again.
  9. Arrange avocado slices on top and sprinkle with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
  10. Serve immediately with whole grain pita or flatbread on the side.

Notes

Keep dressing separate if packing for lunchboxes to avoid sogginess. Chop veggies the night before and assemble fresh at lunchtime for best texture. Removing cucumber seeds can prevent watery salad. Season protein simply with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or smoked paprika.

Nutrition

Keywords: summer lunch, healthy kids meal, rainbow salad, quick lunch, fresh veggies, protein salad, gluten-free, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://yumbelle.com/fresh-rainbow-summer-lunch-kids-love-5-easy-recipes-for-healthy-meals/