Make Healthy Lunchboxes Fun and Easy with Kid-Friendly Juices, Simple Recipes, and Abu Dhabi’s Best Spots
As the new school year approaches, parents in Abu Dhabi are seeking inspiration for healthy lunchboxes that not only nourish but also excite their kids. The recent ban on food deliveries at schools by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education and Knowledge has prompted families to rethink their lunchbox strategies. This article explores various healthy lunchbox ideas in Abu Dhabi that are perfect for the back-to-school season, ensuring that children and parents alike can enjoy wholesome meals on the go.
Nouf Khamis Al Ali, Deputy Director of the Health Promotion Department, noted: “The school lunch bag is an essential part of a child’s diet and is also considered one of the main reasons that could pose a threat to children with obesity, through the wrong choices of the quality of diets provided by the parents.”
Fortunately, Abu Dhabi is home to several venues that make healthy eating both enjoyable and convenient. These options cater to parents and kids alike, proving that nutritious meals can be both fun and delicious.
Organic Foods & Café
For guilt-free shopping, Organic Foods & Café is your best bet. They are going big this back-to-school season with in-store events and discounts that make stocking up on organic produce feel like a celebration. Over the weekend of August 23 to 24, expect up to 20% off, and from August 26 to September 9, customers can enjoy 30% off organic fruits and vegetables. With everything certified organic and non-GMO, you can confidently prepare your child’s lunchbox, your morning smoothies, and even your own office snacks.
Location: 2nd Floor, Nation Towers, Corniche Road, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Times: Daily, 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
Contact: +971 2 665 4244
Healthy Way
With three locations in the capital, Healthy Way is the go-to for nutritious meals that fill you up without inducing a post-lunch slump. The menu features grilled proteins, plentiful veggies, and healthy carbohydrates, making it a favorite among parents. Plus, their online ordering system means meals are just a few clicks away. It’s a smart choice for busy evenings when cooking isn’t an option but you still want to provide healthy lunch options for your child.
Location: Signal 21, Muroor Road, Opposite Khalifa University, Near Al Ahliya Pharmacy, Abu Dhabi
Times: Sunday to Friday: 7:30 am to 12:30 am; Saturday: 2:00 pm to 12:30 am
Contact: +971 2 449 4407
Basiligo
Basiligo excels at meal personalization, catering to diverse dietary preferences, from plant-based diets to keto. They even offer access to a nutritionist, making healthy eating effortlessly attainable. Meals are neatly packaged and ready to grab, ideal for lunchboxes. With their approach, health becomes a seamless and enjoyable lifestyle.
Location: M38, Musaffah, Abu Dhabi
Times: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm; Closed on Sundays
Contact: +971 50 721 8261
Healthy & Co
Though simple in name, Healthy & Co stands out as one of the most stylish meal delivery services in Abu Dhabi. Their focus on clean, vibrant dishes means you can enjoy flavorful meals without compromise. With an emphasis on colorful bowls, lean proteins, and diverse flavors, parents can effortlessly align their lunchtime with their children’s meals, ensuring every lunchbox is a delightful experience.
Location: Ground Level, Inside The Market, Beside Vegetable Market, Mushrif Mall, Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi
Times: Daily: 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Sweet Greens
What began as a single outlet near Zayed Sports City has evolved into a beloved chain known for its fresh, organic offerings. Sweet Greens is where you’ll discover vibrant wraps, hearty salads, protein bowls, and enticing smoothies that appeal even to picky eaters. With a laid-back atmosphere and high-quality ingredients, it’s a destination for healthy lunchbox inspiration that keeps children satisfied throughout the day.
Locations:
Al Reem Bay Towers, Tower A, Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Rihan Heights, The Clubhouse, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi
Times: Daily: 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
Contact: Reem Island: +971 58 597 8455; Rihan Heights: +971 58 568 6335
Before You Roll Up Your Sleeves in the Kitchen, There’s an Easy, Ready-to-Go Option That Makes Healthy Lunchboxes a Little More Exciting
If you’re looking for an easy way to enhance your child’s healthy lunchboxes, consider Rubicon Kids. This new range from Rubicon Arabia features 100% fruit juice tailored specifically for children. Free from added sugars, artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors, or preservatives, it provides pure fruit goodness rich in essential nutrients.
Inspired by tropical fruits, flavors include Mango & Apple, Pineapple & Coconut, and Tropical Fruit, delivering a range of vitamins and nutrients essential for children’s growth and immunity. This juice offers a fun and tasty way to encourage healthy habits from a young age, making it a treat that checks all the health boxes.
Try These at Home
When you’re ready to take to the kitchen, here are some easy recipes to simplify your morning routine.
Rainbow Wraps
Spread hummus on a wholegrain tortilla, then fill it with sliced peppers, cucumbers, carrots, and cheese. Roll it up and slice into pinwheels, creating a visually appealing lunch that kids will love.
Mini Egg Muffins
Whisk eggs with grated zucchini, spinach, and cheese. Pour the mixture into a muffin tin and bake until golden. These muffins are easy to store in the fridge and reheat quickly, making a perfect grab-and-go breakfast option.
Tuna and Avocado Pita Pockets
Mash avocado with lemon juice, mix in canned tuna, and stuff the mixture into wholewheat pita halves. Add some cucumber batons for a satisfying crunch.
Veggie Pizza Bites
Top mini pita breads with tomato paste, shredded cheese, and finely chopped vegetables, then bake until crispy. These bites offer all the fun of pizza while being parent-approved.
Fruit and Yoghurt Parfaits
Layer Greek yoghurt, fresh berries, and a sprinkle of granola in a small jar for a sweet and crunchy treat that resembles dessert but is still nutritious.