Fun Recipes for the Boxed Lunch

Chicken salad

Serves 4-6

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced

2 ribs celery, chopped

½ c. cheddar cheese cubes

½ c. mayonnaise or Miracle Whip

1 T. lemon juice

¼ t. dried dill weed

salt and pepper to taste

In large mixing bowl, gently combine chicken, celery and cheese. In small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill weed and salt and pepper. Pour dressing over chicken mixture and stir gently to combine. Chill. Delicious served as is or in a sandwich.

Italian Sub Sandwiches

For each person, you will need:

One long, Italian roll, sliced lengthwise, but not completely through

Herb Mayo (1/2 c. mayonnaise mixed with ½ T. dried basil, 1 t. dried oregano, and 1 clove minced garlic)

2 slices ham

4 slices salami

2 slices provolone cheese

sliced tomato

sliced red onion

shredded lettuce

Spread 1-2 T. of herbed mayo on Italian roll. Layer ham, salami, cheese, tomato, red onion and shredded lettuce. Close sandwich tightly. Wrap securely in saran wrap. Chill until serving.

Chili Dogs on the Run

Per person:

1 c. of your favorite chili (canned or homemade)

2 hot dogs

2 hot dog buns

This recipe, for an older child or adult, needs to be prepared in the morning rather than the night before. Heat hot dogs to steaming and place in thermos. Meanwhile, heat chili until very hot. Pour chili into thermos, around hot dogs, securing lid tightly. Package buns separately. Be sure to include a fork. To serve, fork the hot dogs out of the thermos and place on buns. Pour chili over top.

Jessica Fisher is a freelance writer who lives in Olathe. She and her husband enjoy many creative lunches with their four boys.