Oh my goodness, who doesn’t love a good Lunchable? Just the thought of those colorful little trays filled with crackers, cheese, and deli meats brings back so many fond memories from childhood. I used to look forward to trading my homemade lunch for a friend’s Lunchables during school, thinking it was the ultimate treat. Fast forward to today, and I’m no longer a kid, but my love for snacky lunches has only grown! That’s why I decided to create a DIY Vegan Lunchables recipe that captures that nostalgia but is completely plant-based and oh-so-delicious.
What makes this DIY Vegan Lunchables so special, aside from the fact that you’re making it yourself? It’s customizable to suit your tastes! You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Plus, it’s a fun way to encourage eating more whole foods while still enjoying that classic snacking experience.
What’s in DIY Vegan Lunchables?
Whole Grain Crackers: The foundation of any great Lunchable! I love using a variety of whole grain crackers. They give you a nice crunch and are often packed with fiber, which keeps you feeling full longer.
Hummus: Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-dippable! Hummus adds a rich flavor and is a great source of protein. Feel free to use store-bought or whip up a quick homemade batch using chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
Vegan Cheese: There are so many fabulous plant-based cheeses on the market now that you can choose your favorite! I usually go for a nut-based cheese for that rich, creamy experience, but soy-based or other varieties work great too.
Fresh Veggies: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes not only add crunch but also good-for-you nutrients. Plus, they create a vibrant appearance that makes the tray so appealing!
Fruits: Grapes, apple slices, or berries are perfect for a pop of sweetness. Fresh fruit balances out the savory elements of the Lunchables and adds a refreshing touch.
Olives or Pickles: If you’re feeling a little adventurous, throw in some olives or pickles for a tangy kick! They add an extra layer of flavor that takes your lunch from regular to exceptional.
Is DIY Vegan Lunchables Good for You?
Absolutely! These DIY Vegan Lunchables are a healthy, balanced meal option. The combination of fiber from the whole grain crackers, protein from the hummus and cheese, along with the vitamins and minerals from fresh veggies and fruits makes for a nutritious lunch.
The hummus is particularly great for providing healthy fats and protein, while the vegan cheese can offer calcium and flavors reminiscent of the traditional version many of us loved as kids. However, it’s wise to watch out for those dips and spreads you choose; some store-bought options can be high in sodium, so looking for lower-sodium versions adds to the health benefits.
Ingredients for DIY Vegan Lunchables (Serves 2)
– 1 box of whole grain crackers
– 1 cup of hummus (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup vegan cheese, sliced or cubed
– 1 cup assorted fresh veggies (e.g., bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 cup assorted fresh fruits (e.g., grapes, apple slices, or berries)
– 1 cup olives or pickles (optional)
How to Make DIY Vegan Lunchables?
1. **Gather Your Ingredients**: Start by gathering all your yummy ingredients. It’s like setting up a mini picnic in your kitchen!
2. **Prepare the Hummus**: If you’re making homemade hummus, blend the soaked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and water until smooth. If you’re using store-bought hummus, just open it up and you’re ready to go!
3. **Slice the Veggies and Fruits**: Carefully slice your veggies and fruits into bite-sized pieces. You want them to be easy to dip and grab!
4. **Assemble the Tray**: Get yourself a large plate or a divided lunch container and start assembling! Place the crackers in one compartment, the hummus in another, and neatly arrange the vegan cheese, fresh veggies, fruits, and olives/pickles around it.
5. **Get Creative**: Feel free to mix and match according to your taste! You could also add nuts or seeds for an extra crunch if that tickles your fancy.
6. **Pack It Up**: If you’re taking it to work or school, cover up your Lunchables container and keep it chilled until lunchtime.
Snack Attack Tips for Your DIY Vegan Lunchables
– **Get Fancy with Dips**: Consider adding beet hummus or guacamole to switch things up. It’s all about those flavor combinations!
– **Make It a Meal**: Add some cooked quinoa or a side salad to amp up the nutrition and make it a full meal.
– **Batch Prep**: If you’re really into this, create a big batch of hummus on the weekend and portion out everything into containers for grab-and-go ease throughout the week!
– **Theme It Up**: Feel free to pick ingredients that match a theme—Mediterranean with olives and roasted red pepper hummus, or a Mexican vibe with guacamole and salsa.
Let’s be real—who doesn’t appreciate a fun, whimsical lunch? This DIY Vegan Lunchables recipe is not only a creative way to eat but also a chance to reconnect with those carefree childhood moments. I can’t wait for you to try it out! Make your own version, snap a photo, and share your lunch adventures with me. Happy snacking!