It’s practically August, which means schools around the country will be back in session very soon! As parents start preparing to send their children back to class, the Traina family offers easy snack and lunchbox ideas that include dried fruit. 

Inspired Ants on a Log — The trifecta of celery, peanut butter and raisins has long been an afterschool snack staple. But why not jazz it up a bit by using almond, sunflower or cashew butter and swapping out raisins for Traina® Home Grown dried cherries, diced dried apricots or pears, or a sprinkling of Traina® Home Grown fruitons® All American Dried Fruit Blend, which includes a variety of bite-sized flavors such as sun dried peaches, apples, sweetened cranberries, California golden raisins and sweetened dried blueberries. 

Caprese Sandwich — For a quick and easy sandwich that’s completely “out of the lunchbox,” create a caprese sandwich using a hoagie roll, drizzle of olive oil and balsamic dressing or Italian salad dressing, mozzarella slices, basil and a generous helping of julienned sun dried tomatoes. For added protein, add a few slices of salami or prosciutto too!

Charcuterie on the Go — Load a partitioned lunch container with a variety of ingredients that allows children to build their own lunch including deli meat roll ups, cheese cubes, crackers or mini-bread slices, grapes, nuts or seeds, and a variety of Traina® Home Grown dried fruit.

Granola bars — For a quick on-the-go breakfast, homemade granola bars with dried fruit are a great way to get a jumpstart on the day. There are a multitude of combinations and recipes for easy granola bars with the main ingredients being oats, honey, butter, brown sugar and other mix-ins along with dried fruit such as coconut shavings, chocolate chips, and nuts and seeds.

Chicken Salad — Traina® Home Grown dried fruit is a great way to customize homemade chicken salad or dress up a store bought version. Adding children’s favorite combinations such as golden raisins and walnuts, cranberries and almonds, or dried cherries and pistachios, and adding a scoop onto a bed of greens or hearty bread makes for a creative and delicious lunchbox staple.

Instead of simply reverting to good old peanut butter and jelly this school year, parents and children alike can liven up their lunchbox and snack selections with delicious Traina® Home Grown dried fruit. For more inspiration and recipes, visit www.trainafoods.com.