Ann Le Do
Categories

Omiebox Bento Lunch Box // Kids Lunch Box Ideas

The kids always get excited to see what’s in their lunch box! On me is a tan ruffled pointelle buttoned cardigan + black high-waisted jeans.

School looks different for the kids this year, but whether they’re going full-time, part-time, or virtually, having a delicious and nutritious lunch ready to go is a necessity.  It will keep your kids nourished and energized throughout the day so they can focus on learning.

Colorful and kid-friendly lunch boxes and matching utensil sets.

Although packing an interesting and healthy lunch that the kids will love can be difficult, I found that using cute and entertaining bento lunch boxes makes it easy!  While traditional lunch boxes have one compartment, bento lunch boxes have multiple compartments that allow multiple types of foods to be stored in one convenient container.  I love that I can pack a completely balanced meal in one lunch box and my kids (ages 3 and 5) love having a variety of textures and flavors.

I’ve tried a few bento lunch boxes and my current overall favorite is the Omiebox – it’s sturdy and well-made, with a thoughtful design.  One of my favorite features is the insulation, which can store both hot and cold food in one place.  The side compartments keep veggies and fruits cold and the thermos insert can keep pasta, rice, and other hot foods warm.

When packing the kids’ lunch, I keep it simple, colorful, and as interesting as possible with a well balanced mix of protein, fruit, vegetables, and whole grains.  If you have picky eaters, try including foods you know they like and stick to introducing new foods at home instead.  Asking them what they like to eat can also make them feel like they have control and they’ll be more inclined to eat what you prepare.  I’ve also found that cutting fruits and veggies into shapes makes it fun for them to eat.

Below is my complete review of the Omiebox as well as some of my go-to meal ideas.

Omiebox

Kid-Friendly

There’s an easy single latch opening system and convenient carrying handle.  The wide insulated bowl insert fits securely in the large compartment so it won’t get knocked over.  It also has a wide flap on the lid, that helps to easily turn the lid open/closed.  The Omiebox comes in five fun and eye-catching colors – blue, green, pink, purple, and yellow.  My kids chose the pink and blue versions.

Compact

Dimensions are 6.8” x 7.2” x 2.9”.  It’s roomy and has no wasted space like some other bento boxes I’ve tried.  It fits easily into a standard child-sized book bag and lunch bag.

Insulated Compartments

There are three insulated compartments – long 15 oz, long 10 oz, and square 25 oz.  A removable divider can also be used in the long or short compartment to create even smaller compartments.  The insulated bowl fits into the square compartment when used.

Vacuum Insulated Bowl

I love this feature because it allows me to pack warm food securely within the bento box instead of having to pack an extra container.  The bowl is made of 2 layers of food grade stainless steel and is vacuum insulated to keep food warm until it’s ready to eat.  It’s shallow and wide which makes it easier for kids to eat from.  Pro-Tip: fill the insulated bowl with hot water for 10 minutes, then discard the water.  This preps the bowl to retain heat longer.

Cleaning

There are 13 parts that can be removed for a thorough cleaning.  All of the parts are BPA-free, phthalate free and complies with all FDA and CPSIA requirements.  If needed, replacement parts can easily be ordered through omielife.com.  It’s top-rack dishwasher safe, but it’s recommended to hand wash the vacuum seals to preserve the effectiveness.

I also like the OmieBox Kids Utensil Set and Portable Case.  It’s a matching reusable fork and spoon and carrying case that easily It attaches to the lunch box.

Kids Lunchbox Ideas

When I’m not packing leftovers for lunch, I have some easy go-to lunch options that the kids love.  If I’m running short on time, I make it super easy with takeout from some of our favorite restaurants.

Here are my go-to homemade options as well as our ultimate snack list.

Lunch Box Idea #1: Peaches, alphabet letter cookies, corn, and macaroni and beef.
Lunch Box Idea#2: Sliced apples, flower shaped carrots, Simply Nature Organic White Cheese Puffs, and turkey and cheese sandwich.
Lunch Box Idea #3: Strawberries, broccoli, Ritz Crisp & Thins Chips, teriyaki salmon and rice.
Lunch Box Idea#4: Clementine, Mini Babybel Original Semi-Soft Cheeses, Annie’s Organic Bunny Grahams, and chicken noodle pasta
Lunch Box Idea #5: Banana, Annie’s Organic Snack Mix, avocado, and egg omelet, chinese sausage served over rice.

Lunch Favorites

  • Turkey and Cream Cheese Sandwich: The kids love cream cheese – it’s a refreshing alternative to cheese and mayo.
  • Egg Omelette, Chinese Sausage, and Rice: A favorite at our house.  Pan-fry sliced chinese sausage and serve it with an egg omelet and rice. 
  • Chicken Noodle Pasta: Components of chicken noodle soup, but served as a pasta.  I saute carrots and celery in butter until softened. I add a splash of heavy cream and parmesan and stir to combine.  Lastly, add cooked pasta and rotisserie chicken.
  • Salmon in Teriyaki or Unagi Sauce: Line an air fryer basket with foil and place a filet of salmon in the center. Drizzle teriyaki or unagi sauce on top to your liking.  Cook in the air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 mins.  Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 425°F for 10-15 minutes.
  • Mac and Beef: Similar to spaghetti, but my kids prefer this.  Cook 1 lb of elbow macaroni, set aside.  Saute 1 lb of ground beef with a cup of finely diced onions until brown.  Add a 28 oz can of tomato sauce and a 6 oz can of tomato paste.  Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 mins.  Stir in cooked pasta until combined.
  • Cheese Quesadilla: Super quick and easy lunch.  Heat up 1 tortilla in a pan and add shredded cheese on top.  Place another tortilla on top of the cheese.  When the tortilla starts to get crispy and golden brown, flip to toast the other side, then cut into slices.

Snacks

My kids are little snack monsters. Here are their favorite snacks to munch on.

What are your easy go-to lunches and favorite snacks for the kids?

You may also enjoy:

1 Comment

  1. Chandra
    November 18, 2020 / 5:24 am

    We love our omie box only wished the outside was rubbery like some of our other bento boxes. An outside cover case would be helpful. Not drop friendly.