Reusable snack bags are greener and definitely cuter

A steady supply of snacks is always a must when you’re on the go with kids, but the waste of one-and-done baggies doesn’t have to be. We know how convenient those plastic zip bags can be. But, believe it or not, never worrying about running out every single time you pack lunch this school year is even easier. If you’re hoping to make snack time a little greener, swap those plastic baggies for one of these functional and reusable snack bags that are both super stylish and eco-friendly.


(re)zip

(re)zip Leakproof Reusable Snack Bags

$20 BUY NOW

There's no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the right (re)zip storage bags. Each one is made out of food safe, FDA-grade PEVA material, is lead-free & BPA-free, offers leakproof double-lock closures, is freezer safe, can nest and compress flat for convenient storage. Oh, and each bag replaces up to 300 disposable bags! You can buy individual bags all the way up to a 10-pack in both flat and stand-up styles.


Full Circle

Full Circle Zip Tuck Snack Bags

$7 BUY NOW

We can't think of a cuter way to send them off with snacks than these reusable bags from Full Circle. They store flat but feature a gusset bottom with plenty of room, and the air-tight lock top can even hold liquid. They're food-safe, BPA-free, and can easily be washed and used again and again. Full Circle bags have a bunch of cute print options and reusable label you can write on with a dry erase marker and wipe clean.


Fluf Flip resusable snack bag
Fluf

Fluf Flip Snack Bags

$9 BUY NOW

Looking to entice a picky eater? These adorable organic cotton snack sacks will do it. Who can resist the cute panda or the smiling toast that decorates the front of these reusable snack and sandwich bags? With several designs to choose from, the sack features a recycled polyester lining and velcro closure. The whole thing can be tossed in the washer for easy cleaning. Fluf Flip also has an equally cute zip-top version.


PackIt

PackIt Freezable Snack Bag

$15 BUY NOW

How many times have you misplaced those freezable ice packs that help keep everything cool? If the answer is "too many", you’ll love these PackIt Freezable Snack Bags. The reusable bag is made with a non-toxic gel liner that keeps the everything cool (without any extra ice packs). Just freeze it overnight, then pack it and go!


Simple Modern

Simple Modern Reusable Food Pouches

$10 BUY NOW

Love the convenience of those no-mess pouches for your tots? Take those purees on the go without worrying about waste. These colorful reusable food pouches can be refilled again and again, so you’ll always have a handy way to feed your toddler away from home. Plus, school-aged kiddos love applesauce, yogurt, and smoothies, too. Squooshi’s leak-proof, BPA-free pouches come in a pack of ten and are dishwasher and freezer safe.


Etsy/Zippered Zebra

Personalized Reusable Snack Bags

$12 BUY NOW

Looking for a great option for storing snacks and making sure your reusable bag comes home every day? Get your kiddo's name added. 


Bumpkins reusable snack bags
Bumkins

Bumkins Snack Bags

$9 and Up BUY NOW

Bumkins snack bags have a print for everyone! The small size is great for dry snacks, while the bigger size is perfect for sandwiches. Both sizes use a zipper closure, are machine washable, and are eco-friendly.


Stasher

Stasher Reusable Silicone Bags

$10 and Up BUY NOW

These bags by Stasher may seem totally simple, but don’t let that fool you. They're extremely durable, non-toxic and are oven/microwave/freezer/dishwasher safe. They use a simple air-tight pinch-press seal to keep snacks fresh and come in a bunch of different colors and sizes.


Smelly Proof

Smelly Proof Reusable Snack Bags

$10 and Up BUY NOW

Smelly Proof reusable bags take back-to-school lunches to another level. Never worry about stinky foods lingering in that lunchbox! The smell-proof bags come in a variety of sizes and are liquid-, moisture- and puncture-resistant. No mess, no smells!


Russbe

Russbe Snack Bags Set of 4

$9 BUY NOW

Russbe offers a ton of different options when it comes to reusable snack bags, and you'll get an entire set, which is perfect for all kinds of snacks and food.


LunchSkins

LunchSkins

$10 BUY NOW

LunchSkins are resealable, dishwasher-safe, moisture- and grease-proof. They come in a bunch of fun prints and are perfectly sized for sandwiches and snacks.


BooginHead reusable snack bags
BooginHead

BooginHead Pack'Ems

$8 BUY NOW

BooginHead has some of the cutest patterns around. Their Pack’Ems snack bags come in two sizes a pack, are easy to open and close with a Velcro Press-Lok, stand on their own for easy snacking and are dishwasher safe. They’re also environmentally-friendly and totally affordable.


Itzy Ritzy

Itzy Ritzy Snack Bags

$10 BUY NOW

Send your snacks to school in style with these Itzy Ritzy mini reusable snack bags. Made from an FDA-approved food-safe lining, the bags are BPA, lead, and phthalate PVC free. These adorable packs are made with a water-resistant lining and a zipper to keep snacks neat and tidy. Did we mention they're also machine washable?


Trifecta Living Co.

Hunny Bee Beeswax Wraps

$15 BUY NOW

These organic beeswax wraps are made with ethically harvested beeswax and are a biodegradable alternative to traditional plastic wrap. With a six-piece set of three different-sized square wraps, you can securely wrap up anything from sandwiches to cut fruits and veggies with a secure, mess-free seal. Each wrap can be cleaned and reused for up to a year. Once they’ve lost their stickiness, you can even extend their lives as kitchen rags.


EcoDitty

EcoDitty Color-Your-Own Snack Bag

$14 BUY NOW

For a budding artist, the EcoDitty Color Your Own Snack Bag is perfect. Each is made with 100% Organic Cotton and comes with three non-toxic permanent fabric markers.

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

There are some classic summer recipes here

When you’re sweating it out in the summer, the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove and make an elaborate dinner. From refreshing salads and cold dinner ideas to delicious wraps, we’ve whipped up a list of our favorite summer recipes that don’t involve cooking. Take a break from the oven and make one of these tasty no-cook meals!

Shrimp Spring Rolls

These fresh and delicious shrimp spring rolls from Tastes Better from Scratch are such an easy cold dinner idea, you’ll want to add them to your recipe rotation ASAP.

Chopped Thai-Inspired Chicken Salad

Thai chicken salad is a cold dinner idea
Pinch of Yum

Grab a bag of pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, roast chicken, peanuts, and other yummy ingredients like ginger, soy, and of course, peanut butter, and whip up this Thai-inspired chicken salad from Pinch of Yum without ever having to turn on the stove or oven.

Easy Summer Corn Salad

corn salad is a great cold dinner idea, a great no cook meal and an easy summer recipe
Hip2Save

Great as a side or a delicious dinner, this summer corn salad is refreshing and light. Made with a homemade dressing, you can easily dress up this salad by adding a protein and make it easier, by chopping up everything the night before! Find the recipe at Hip2Save.

Best Ever Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a perfect cold dinner idea and a classic summer recipe
How to Feed a Loon

Psst! The secret to this chicken salad from How to Feed a Loon—besides fresh and simple ingredients—is that it uses rotisserie chicken. It makes the prep work extra easy and the result extra delicious. Enjoy it as a sandwich or on top of a bed of lettuce!

Mexican Bean Salad

Mexican bean salad is a good no-cook meal and one of the easiest cold dinner ideas
Canva

Now, this is our kind of cooking: the most work you’ll have to do for this Mexican-inspired salad is chopping and opening a few cans of beans. And since letting it sit helps the flavors meld together, it tastes even better the day after you make it. To get the recipe, click here.

Tomato Marinara Sauce

Heather Ford via Unsplash

Your mind will be blown when you try this tomato sauce that doesn’t require any cooking at all. Just throw all the ingredients into the blender or food processor and prepare to be impressed. Click here to grab the recipe.

Chicken Taco Pinwheels

chicken taco pinwheels are a good cold dinner idea and an easy summer recipe
Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish

These tasty pinwheels from Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish make the perfect lunch or light dinner. With an assist from a rotisserie chicken, a little spinach, and a sprinkling of taco seasoning, they’re as tasty as they are a healthy summer recipe. 

Related: 25 Cold Pasta Salad Recipes (because It’s Just Too Hot)

Crab Rolls

One of our favorite cold dinner ideas! Inspired by the classic lobster roll, you can make these with pre-cooked crab from the store. With a few other ingredients, you’ll have a no-cook meal ready in under 30 minutes. Click on the picture for this incredible summer recipe.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

chicken Caesar pasta salad recipe
Life Made Simple

What do you get when you combine pasta and Caesar salad? This dish from Life Made Simple! It’s loaded with all the classic flavors you expect—crisp romaine, pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and lots of cheese!

No Noodle Pad Thai

Cookie and Kate

It doesn’t get much more refreshing than this noodle-free pad Thai by Cookie and Kate. Fresh and crunchy veggies are coated with a sweet, tangy, slightly salty peanut sauce to make a fabulous light dinner.

Open Sandwich with Cold Cut Salad

no-cook meals
A Gourmet Food Blog

This Dutch recipe from A Gourmet Food Blog has all the makings of an instant kid favorite: crusty bread, lunchmeat, and a little mayo. It’s a fun way to take your bologna sandwich to the next level.

Rainbow Raw-maine Taco Boats

no-cook meals
Minimalist Baker

For a super fresh and satisfying dinner, you’ve got to try this fun take on taco boats from Minimalist Baker. Veggies are nestled into leaves of romaine, then it’s all drizzled with hummus and a creamy tahini sauce.

Bagel Toast

no-cook meals
The View from Great Island

When it’s too hot to contemplate cooking, a bagel bar is THE way to go. There are a million delicious ways you can layer them up, and the results can be as hearty and healthy as you want. Get inspired to make your own over at The View from Great Island.

 

Related: 14 Trader Joe’s Products Perfect for a Summer Cookout

Kiddie Cobb Salad

this kiddie cobb salad is a great cold dinner idea
Mom's Kitchen Handbook

Here’s a win-win idea from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook: skip the over-complicated summer meal and get the kids to eat more greens. They’ll love this cobb salad, which sports delicious add-ons like avocado, smoked turkey, and egg.

Mozzarella and Tomato Salad

Caprese salad is a classic summer recipe, a great cold dinner idea and a great no cook meal
Bryony Elena via Unsplash

When you need a summertime meal, keep it simple! Combine fresh mozzarella and tomatoes for an easy peasy, kid-approved salad. For the quick how-to, (courtesy of Chef Brendan Collins), click here.

Gouda Rollups

these cheese roll ups are an easy cold dinner ideas
Arla®

These rollups from Arla are a great way to change up a lunch routine or give your usual summertime dinner a new spin. Use your favorite cheese, add in some extra veggies for a healthy kick, and you’re good to go!

Antipasto Salad

no-cook meals
Dinner at the Zoo

Psst! Looking for a salad that won’t trigger your picky eater’s veggie radar? This no-cook meal from Dinner at the Zoo is loaded with meat, cheese, olives and yes, veggies, so it’s got a range of tasty ingredients. You can even top it off with a homemade Italian-style dressing!

Southwestern Veggie Hummus Wrap

hummus veggie wraps are one of the best cold dinner ideas and they are an easy summer recipe
Chelsea's Messy Apron

This delicious wrap idea from Chelsea’s Messy Apron is super flavorful and even includes hummus and a bunch of good-for-you vitamins and minerals. Eat it straight-up as a summertime salad or just have a tasty wrap for dinner!

Greek Salad

Jeffrey Betts/Unsplash

For a cold dinner idea that everyone will love, why not go the classic route of sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta? This salad is a cinch for picky eaters—just arrange it on the table salad-bar style, which allows each family member to create their own unique dish. Snag the recipe for this no-cook meal here.

 

 

From squares to cylinders, the traditional grilled cheese sandwich has just been reinvented thanks to My Little Gourmet. And they only take 10 minutes to make! Serve these grilled cheese roll-ups as a snack or accompaniment to some hot tomato soup (we’re sure the roll-up shape makes it more fun for the kids). We’ve got more easy toddler lunch ideas here.

Serving size 2

Grilled Cheese Roll-Ups Ingredients:

4 slices of sandwich bread
4 slices of cheese (recommend gouda)
1 tablespoon butter

Method:

1. Cut the crusts off of the bread.

2. Roll each slice flat with a rolling pin.

3. Place a slice of cheese on each piece of bread and roll up tightly.

4. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat.

5. Place the rolls, seam-side down, in the pan and press down so that they don’t unravel.

6. Rotate until golden brown on each side and the cheese is melted.

 

Laura Leer is a mom and writer of My Little Gourmet. She lives in Berlin with her husband and 2-year-old son, Arik, who are the main taste testers of her delicious meals. For more kid-friendly recipes, check out her blog here.

Looking for a new take on Taco Tuesday? Try Cuban food! While just as flavorful as Mexican food, Cuban food recipes are often less spicy and not as fried, making it the perfect cuisine to try with kids. Discover your favorite from our collection of everything from the traditional Cuban sandwich and black beans to the perfect Medianoche bread recipe.

Cuban Medianoche Bread

Medianoche Bread Cuban food recipe
Hostess at Heart

Can you make a Cuban sandwich without medianoche bread? You can, but with this easy recipe from Hostess at Heart, you shouldn't! With simple ingredients and novice baking skills required, you'll be whipping up Cubanos in no time.

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja is a classic Cuban food recipe
The Daring Gourmet

The Daring Gourmet's Ropa Vieja recipe is so easy, that it will quickly become a part of your menu rotation. Made with flank steak, veggies, and lots of fragrant spices, this traditional shredded beef dish easily pairs with rice and beans—things even picky eaters like! Dinner is served.

Cuban Sandwich

The Cubano is a famous Cuban food recipe
Marta Rivera

Remember that medianoche bread? It's time to whip up that Cubano sandwich now! This Cuban food recipe from Simply Recipes pairs traditional ingredients like pork, ham, cheese, and pickles into a hearty sandwich that is beyond filling.

Related: 14 Restaurant-Worthy Middle Eastern Recipes Families Will Love

Boliche

Magnolia Days

Cuban stuffed roast is the stuff of holiday dinners. While it is a labor of love, this savory roast stuffed with chorizo, olives, and garlic is even harder to pass up once it's covered in gravy. Your little meat-eaters will have no problem eating this up! Get the recipe from Magnolia Days

Cuban Black Beans

Black beans are part of this classic Cuban food recipe.
A Couple Cooks

Whether you use dried or canned beans, you can still make authentic Cuban beans in a flash. Ingredients like green pepper and onions come together in this recipe from A Couple Cooks to create an easy side dish or main meal that easily pairs with rice.

Cuban Beef Picadillo

A Spicy Perspective

Ground beef with cinnamon and raisins? Toss in green olives and you've got Beef Picadillo! This simple recipe from A Spicy Perspective makes dinnertime adventurous and quick. Serve with rice or in taco shells, and everyone is on their way to full tummies.

Flan de Leche

A good cuban food recipe is flan
Max Griss via Unsplash

You've had flan, but have you had Cuban Flan de Leche? The ultra-creamy dessert is made with condensed and evaporated milk and finished with a creme brûlée topping. We love Bacon is Magic's recipe, which is easy and quick.

Arroz con Leche

Coco & Ash

Condensed milk is back in this creamy and traditional Arroz con Leche recipe. Cuban rice pudding is made with simple ingredients and just a little attention. This recipe from Coco & Ash walks you through the super kid-friendly dessert in just an hour.

 

Gone are the days when a PB&J is standard lunch fare. There are a gazillion bento boxes for kids on the market and they are just calling out for some fun school lunches. Scroll through to find some holiday-themed bento box lunches, special tools that kids will love, googly eyes that make your sandwich rolls come to life and tons of other ideas. Pop in a printable lunchbox joke and your student will be the talk of the lunchroom!

Minions Bento Box Lunch

Charlie Brown & Snoopy

Dr. Seuss Bento

Related: 23 Bento Boxes That Make Lunch Time Fun

Earth Day Bento Lunch

Elephant Mother & Child

Googly Eyes FTW

Harry Potter Bento Lunch

Related: 17 Creative Lunch Ideas (That Aren’t Sandwiches)

Use Some Skewers

Space-Themed Lunch

Everybody Loves Rainbow Fruits

Under the Sea

Halloween Creepy Critters

Bugs Away Bento

Dinosaur Bento

Related: Printable Lunchbox Jokes to Brighten Your Student’s Day

Everything You Need to Up Your Bento Box Game

Turn an everyday sandwich into something more with some cookie cutters and sandwich cutters. We especially like: 

Kids love to play with their food and we love these options to encourage that (within reason, right?): 

Or better yet, make it easy for yourself and grab this kit that has everything you'll need

 

Don’t let the heat get you all hot and bothered—scoop up some of the original Mother’s Little Helper and chill out, instead. From classic favorites at ice cream institutions to modern takes on the sweet stuff, Atlanta’s dripping with options. You’ll especially love the spot that has two kid favorites: trains and ice cream. 

Butter & Cream
All ice cream at this Decatur institution is hand-made right there in the store, with flavors ranging from classic to exotic—honey lavender fig and dark chocolate malbec, for starters—you might never leave. Check out their seasonally rotating menu for the most “now” flavors.

The Cherry On Top: Take your ice cream and stroll to the nearby Little Shop of Stories—they have story times on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday!

416 Church St.

661 Auburn Ave. Suite 130
Online: butterandcream.com

Cathy’s

You’ll find gourmet ice cream sandwiches at this treasure, where you begin by choosing your cookies (there are seven types to choose among), your ice cream (16 flavors that range from standard to exotic), and a topping which your sandwich is rolled in. While it’s not cheap—a cookie sandwich will run you a solid $10—each custom concoction is deliciously indulgent.

The Cherry On Top: Want to try making a gourmet ice cream sandwich at home? Cathy’s sells cookie kits with cookie dough ready to go and ice cream by the pint.

855 Peachtree Street
Online: cathyscle.com

 

Sub-Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
This flash-frozen ice cream is created using liquid nitrogen. And the founders take the idea of science in the kitchen seriously—they even offer classroom demos and have a song about the Periodic Table on their homepage. Whatever the science behind this ice cream, it’s good.

The Cherry On Top: The downtown location is a perfect place to stop after a morning at the Children’s Museum or an afternoon at Centennial Olympic fountains.

250 Park Ave. W NW
Centennial Park District

11720 Medlock Bridge Rd.
Duluth
Online: subzeroicecream.com

Paolo’s Gelato
From the kid-level glass case displaying fluffy mountains of the good stuff to the wafer cookie on top of every scoop, this Va-Hi sweet shop will delight kids and adults alike. If you’re a stickler for the trifecta (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry), you might be disappointed because the flavors change and trend towards Nutella, zabaione, rose, and amaretto. Don’t forget your cash as this joint doesn’t take cards.

The Cherry On Top: It’s a wafer cookie, not a cherry. But it’s yummy.

1025 Virginia Ave. NE
Online: paolosgelato.com

Queen of Cream
This homemade ice cream window in Inman Park starts its batches with local grass-fed dairy and makes small batches in-house using fresh and local ingredients. So pick up your scoop at the ice cream window located on Bernina.

The Cherry on Top: Vegan flavors, including Mango Coconut, hold their own on the menu.

337 Elizabeth St NE
Atlanta
Online: queenofcream.com

Jake’s Ice Cream
Jake’s Ice Cream can be found in many locations around town, but get it at the Irwin Street Market for the traditional ice cream parlor effect. Ice cream coolers straddle an old-fashioned ice cream bar with red vinyl stools and glistening countertops. For the wobblers out there, there are also family-style kitchen tables in a lounge adjacent to the ice cream counter. Jake’s impressive list of creative (and offbeat) flavors satisfies every craving in your crowd. They’re also opening a new location in East Point this summer, so keep an eye out.

The Cherry On Top: The ISM houses breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dessert vendors all under one roof, so hit this spot if you can’t bring yourself to make dinner… or lunch… or brunch… one day. It’s right off the Beltline and a worthy destination. Keep in mind that they’re only open on Sat. & Sun. from 2-5 p.m., so plan your day around it.

660 Irwin St.
Online: jakesicecream.com

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Think of this sweet spot as education for tiny tounges. Nestled in the hip Haute spot of the Westside Provisions District, this ice cream counter serves up samples of fanciful flavors like Wildberry Lavender, Goat Cheese & Red Cherries, and Riesling Poached Pear Sorbet.

The Cherry On Top: A waffle wedge comes complimentary with each scoop. Don’t forget to load up on pints to take home to bribe the babes later.

1198 Howell Mill Rd.

77 West Paces Ferry Rd., Suite 35B
Online: jenis.com

Frosty Caboose
Trains and treats? Yes, please. This sweet shop is a converted train caboose with a walk-up window serving Greenwood’s ice cream—Atlanta’s answer to Mayfield’s on a smaller scale and with wilder flavors. With a private and plentiful parking lot between the caboose and the actual train track (another plus for your little train aficionados), you can enjoy your ice cream tailgate-style or stroll the streets of downtown Chamblee as you eat.

The Cherry On Top: Can’t get enough of Greenwood Ice Cream? Check out their manufacturing location not far from The Frosty Caboose. You can score an ice cream cake from one of the coolers up front if you’re lucky!

5435 Peachtree Rd.
Online: frostycaboose.com

Morelli’s
This is ice cream the way it’s supposed to be. Morelli’s churns up traditional flavors (salted caramel will make you moan) and more creative combinations (think strawberry balsamic, maple bacon, or coconut jalapeño). But no matter your kids’ tastes, the creamy, smooth, rich quality of Morelli’s will have them begging for more.

The Cherry On Top: The Moreland Avenue store is a perfect stop after a day at the zoo.

749 Moreland Ave. SE,

4515 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd.
Online: morellisicecream.com

https://www.instagram.com/p/CD66etYByB9/?hidecaption=true

Kilwin’s
Okay, Kilwin’s is a chain, but there is only one in Georgia (in Atlantic Station), and you should go. The smell of chocolate greets guests at the door, and kids will marvel at the toys, candy cases, and decorations as they make their way back towards the ice cream. Very few things can distract a child from an ice cream cone, but the candy maker molding bite-sized chocolates at the front of the store might do it.

The Cherry On Top: They make their waffle cones in-house. Yum.

1380 Atlantic Dr. Suite 14160

251 Market St.
Alpharetta
Online: kilwins.com

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Take your sandwich to the next level with two ingredients you already have in your kitchen

Tired of your go-to sliced cheddar on white bread? Mix up your routine with this no-brainer recipe from the food bloggers Jennie and Corelyn of Garlic My Soul. With two ingredients we bet you already have in your kitchen–apples and jam–the classic grilled cheese gets a major upgrade. The cooks’ secret to this delicious sandwich? Use Fontina cheese, which Jennie and Corelyn swear takes this dish to the next level.

Serves 1

Grilled Cheese with Apple and Jam Ingredients:

2 slices sourdough bread
2-3 oz fontina cheese
2 tbsp blueberry jam
¼ an apple, thiny sliced
4-5 basil leaves, chopped thinly sliced
butter
soup of your choice, optional

Method:

1. Butter both sides of your bread.

2. Spread the jam on the inside of both pieces of bread, then layer on the cheese, with the basil in the center.

3. Heat a pan over medium heat, and butter well.

4. Cook over medium heat on each side until the bread is well browned. Pro tip: if you want to, you can use a cast iron bacon press or another cast iron to put weight on the sandwich so everyone gets nice and melty.

5. Serve hot with soup!

 

This recipe was created by Jennie and Corelyn of the food blog, Garlic My Soul. East Coasters now living on the West Coast these foodies can be found adventuring around LA or cooking up something delicious. Visit Garlic My Soul for more fabulous recipe ideas that use in-season ingredients. 

Looking for a little variety in the routine that the kids will actually still eat? Try these twists on an old favorite

If you’ve got a picky eater, there’s one thing you can almost guarantee they’ll eat—a PB&J. It might not be the most exciting combo in the world, but the good news is, there are a bunch of inventive recipes with peanut butter and jelly out there to help you kick it up a notch. To keep things fresh, we’ve found 15 ways to enjoy this classic treat for breakfast, snacks, and dessert.

Breakfast Recipes with Peanut Butter and Jelly

Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast

This recipe brings two classics together in the most perfect way. The only problem will be having to stop yourself from making it every Sunday.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Waffles

What we love about this breakfast idea is that you can absolutely use frozen waffles. Top them with peanut butter, honey, banana, raisins, or jelly.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Swirl Bread

PB&J Swirl Bread
Cook Nourish Bliss

As much as we'd like to have a sit-down breakfast every morning, sometimes we just have to grub on the go. That's where this tasty breakfast bread from Cook Nourish Bliss comes in super handy—no messy knives and no sticky fingers, just a hearty slice of heaven to start your day. A word of warning: do NOT try and toast this bread, it will make quite a mess!

PB& J Pancake Sandwiches

Weelicious

Using pancakes instead of bread? Why not? Before you go thinking you're spoiling your little jelly monsters, take a look at this recipe from Weelicious—it's healthy! We're pretty sure you won't hear many complaints, as your kids will be too busy snacking on their new favorite way to eat PB&Js.

Related: 23 Easy-to-Prep School Lunch Ideas for Kids

Snack & Lunch Recipes with Peanut Butter and Jelly

Peanut Butter and Jelly Energy Bites

These energy bites could work as a quick breakfast or an on-the-go snack. Full of protein and flavor, they take 15 minutes to make. Get the recipe from Favorite Family Recipes.

PB&J Pizza

Heat Oven to 350

Our kids are already big fans of the cheesy variety, so we're pretty confident that they'll be beside themselves when they hear you're making them Nicole's special PB&J pizza for snack. They'll be even more excited when you let them pick a topping or two—banana slices for pepperoni, coconut flakes for shredded cheese, get creative! Major style points if you can pipe the jelly out onto the pizza like this.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi

How do you make a sandwich even more finger food-y? Roll it up and cut it into sushi rolls. These would be great for feeding a bunch of little rugrats, as they could just pop a few of these in their mouths. We love Brit + Co.‘s idea of topping them with fresh fruit to compliment the flavors of the jelly.

Peanut Butter Quesadillas with Jelly Dipping Sauce

Home Cooking Memories

This PB&J from Home Cooking Memories goes south of the border. Reducing the jelly down to a sauce makes a sweet, syrupy mixture that is great for dunking. Another great snack choice for multiple hungry mouths, whip up a few of these and lay them out for an afternoon snack.

Dessert PB&J Kids Will Love

Peanut Butter and Jelly Milkshake

Chocolate Covered Katie

Sounds good, looks good, tastes great. This Chocolate-Covered Katie recipe uses a mixture of milk and vanilla extract instead of ice cream, so it's at least a little healthier for you. Adding in frozen berries for jelly also makes this shake extra smooth without the extra guilt. Best enjoyed with a crazy straw.

Dark Chocolate Dreams Sandwich

Peanut Butter & Co.

After this treat, you may never want to sink your teeth into plain ole PB&J again! Peanut Butter & Co.'s Dark Chocolately Dreams spread, preserves and coconut is all it takes to make the sandwich of your dreams a reality. 

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cake

How Sweet Eats

Sweet and savory is a classic flavor combo, and no two things bring together these tastes like peanut butter and jelly. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that Jessica of How Sweet It Is thought to create a PB&J-inspired dessert. Using whole wheat flour makes this cake a little more healthy, so you don't have to feel guilty about eating it for dessert...and next morning's breakfast.

PB&J Pops

Weelicious

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a PB&J pop? We're not sure, but we know of a few little ones who wouldn't mind being our guinea pigs for this little experiment. Thanks to Catherine of Weelicious for another great PB&J recipe.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes

My Baking Addiction

We love bite-sized desserts almost as much as our kids do. Plus, desserts always seem that much more adorable when they're just pop-able enough to warrant eating at least two or three. Jamie of My Baking Addiction makes these cupcakes with white cake in lieu of white bread, and have a hollowed-out center filled with sweet jelly, then topped with peanut butter frosting. Simply decadent.

 

 

Mama Mia! Whether you’re craving an Italian sub so good it could solve the world’s problems or you want mouthwatering meatballs that’ll make you ugly cry with delight, we’ve put together a list of the best Italian delis in LA to take the kids. These tasty eateries will fill your belly and soul with great food and warm service that feels like family. Mangia!

Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery

best italian delis around LA
Winnie L. via Yelp

All hail "The Godmother"—Bay Cities's signature sub and after one bite, you'll realize why. Stacked high with ham, capicola, mortadella, genoa salami, provolone cheese and the works, it rates as one of the top sandwiches in town. In addition to the classic sub, Bay Cities serves up dozens of amazing hot and cold sandwiches and sides, along with fresh sliced meats and cheeses that will make your mouth water. Hot Tip: Bay Cities only accepts cash or debit cards—no credit cards.

What to Order the Kids: We’d be remiss if we didn’t strongly recommend ordering the iconic sandwich, The Godmother, but kids might also enjoy the Caprese sandwich or the hot chicken parmesan.

1517 Lincoln Blvd.
Santa Monica
Online: order.bcdeli.com

Ggiata Delicatessen

Best Italian Delis in Los Angeles
Mike C. via Yelp

Drawing inspiration from traditional East Coast neighborhood delis, Ggiata Delicatessen features some of the most incredible Italian-style deli fare this side of Jersey. Their success comes from a great blend of culinary talent and high-quality ingredients sourced from local vendors. With a fantastic selection of sandwiches, salads and sides, it’s no wonder they’ve become one of the most well regarded delis in town. Don’t miss their Rainbow cookies either—they’re some of the best.

What to Order the Kids: The Chicken Parm (order the Spicy P for yourself!), a side of Arancini (fried risotto cheese balls) and of course Rainbow cookies for dessert! 

5009 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: ggiata.com

Eastside Italian Deli

Joseph A. via Yelp

A DTLA staple for over 90 years, award-winning Eastside Italian Deli is known for its rich family history and its to-die-for sandwiches—the most popular being the #7 Roast Beef, Pastrami & Cheese. Can't make it downtown? Another storefront location is open in Los Feliz, where even more folks will have an opportunity to find out why this deli is consistently ranked as one of the tastiest in town.

What to Order the Kids: The Italian Meatball with cooked peppers and cheese is a good choice if little ones are super hungry or, for something lighter, order the turkey and cheese sub.

1013 Alpine St.
Los Angeles
Online: esmdeli.com

Mario’s Italian Deli & Market

Best Italian delis in Los Angeles
Michael D. via Yelp

Voted one of the best delis in LA year after year, you can see why Mario’s Italian Deli & Market gets raves with their impressive selection delicious subs, hot sandwiches, Italian wines and rare imported items. Also, they put together incredible catering spreads, so definitely keep them in mind for the upcoming holiday season.

What to Order the Kids: You can’t go wrong with their Spaghetti and Meatballs or for more daring kiddos, check out their Spicy Combo Sub which is big enough for two to share.

740 E Broadway
Glendale
Online: mariosdeli.com

Cavaretta’s Italian Deli

Best Italian Delis in LA
Claudia B. via Yelp

Holy cannoli, Cavaretta’s Italian Deli in Canoga Park truly has some of the best cannolis in town, hands down. Serving the community since 1959, Cavaretta’s is known for its super friendly hospitality where everyone is treated like family and of course they're known for their amazing food. From fresh Italian subs and hand-rolled meatballs to a great selection of curated items throughout the store, it’s an experience not to be missed.

What to Order the Kids: Their famous cannolis of course!

22045 Sherman Way
Canoga Park
Online: cavarettasdeli.com

—Jennifer O’Brien

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Cue up the Jimmy Buffet as it’s time for an island getaway (without leaving the states). Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs has tons to offer families looking for a little relaxation time and it is the perfect home base for all your Palm Springs and Joshua Tree adventures. We checked it out and have all the intel on everything we loved about it.

Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs

1. The resort's retro design and upscale amenities are the perfect combo for families.
As soon as we arrived at Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs, we could feel the relaxing island vibe taking over (and we needed it after hours in the car with the kids). The mid-century building encircles an inner pool area that was soon to become our home base for the weekend. Families can enjoy snacks and a game of cards at the many sitting areas in the expansive lobby. Even pets are welcome!

2. Dining options are convenient (and kid-friendly).
The resort really takes into consideration the fact that families are likely to be on the go when visiting and they offer both sit-down and grab-and-go dining options. The on-site restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner service that you can enjoy in the restaurant, on the adjoining patio or in your room. The kid meals were large enough to satisfy the teens in our crew and the chicken sandwich was a family favorite. 

We particularly appreciated Joe Merchant's Coffee and Provisions for quick breakfast eats, to-go sandwiches, coffees and pizzas. They also had snacks and alcoholic beverages available. Swing by for your coffee and egg sandwich, and grab a sandwich to bring with you for your Joshua Tree visit. 

Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs

3. The resort's spa is a must-visit. 
Be sure your visit includes some time at the St. Somewhere Spa. This expansive space will (almost) make you forget you've brought your kids along with you as you fully immerse yourself in its relaxing ambiance. Book a Swedish massage or mani/pedi and be sure to bring your swimsuit with you so that you can enjoy the hot tub and sauna afterward. 

Kate Loweth

4. You'll want to spend all day (and night) by the pool.
Be sure your schedule allows for sufficient pool time because it's where the kids will want to hang, we know it. Lounge chairs, a fire pit, cornhole games and an outdoor bar surround the pool that's in the center of the property. You can order food to eat poolside and enjoy views of the San Jacinto Mountains while the kids enjoy the water. There's even a hot tub for post-hike relaxation. 

5. Family-sized rooms with a view. 
The property offers tons of room options for families of all sizes from the luxurious, two-level Jimmy Buffet suite to traditional hotel rooms. Request a room that faces the pool and you'll get a balcony or patio with outdoor space to enjoy your morning coffee. We enjoyed the Hemisphere suite with a separate dining area, mini-fridge, microwave and coffee maker that made breakfast time easy, even when some wanted to sleep in. 

Kate Loweth

6. Nearby adventures are plentiful. 
The resort's prime location on the main drag in Palm Springs makes for a great location when you want to check out all that Palm Springs has to offer. Our robust guide to visiting Palm Springs with kids has tons of ideas for what to do in the area like hopping aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, going on a windmill tour and stopping by the Cabazon Dinosaur Museum. 

We spent a full day visiting Joshua Tree National Park and would definitely recommend it to families. About an hour's drive from the resort, Joshua Tree gives you a glimpse of another world full of weirdly shaped plants and massive rock formations. You'll want to make sure you have gassed up your car before you go as gas stations are few and far between near the park entrance. Bring food, water and sunscreen with you and do yourself a favor and pay your entrance fee online before you head over. You'll save yourself a major headache and avoid the line at the park entrance. 

We entered the park at the south entrance near Cottonwood Springs and exited at the west entrance. This route led us to many of the park's top destinations like the Cholla Cactus Garden and Skull Rock. We particularly liked stopping at the White Tank Campground and hiking to Arch Rock. It was a super easy hike and there were tons of boulders for climbing. 

Kate Loweth

The Living Desert is also about an hour from the resort and we had a great time visiting the animals, hiking the trails and even feeding the giraffes. Pro tip: save the giraffes for the end of your visit (they are located near the entrance) if you need a way to motivate your kids through the day. Little ones will love the carousel and you'll definitely want to make note of any animal encounters they have scheduled as they provide a great way to meet some of the animals up close. The brand-new Rhino Safari is located right near the giraffes and a great way to see these majestic creatures in action. 

Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs

For more information on the Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs, visit their website. Our Palm Springs guide is your go-to for planning the best Palm Springs vacation for kids (and parents)!

—Kate Loweth

Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs but all opinions belong to the writer. 

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