Having recently visited India where we brought our 11-year-old, we were delighted that he was willing to try so many local foods during our travels. Indian restaurants do a great job of creating food for kids that is both interesting, complex yet without the sometimes overwhelming spice heat that we have come to associate with Indian curries.

When we returned home I was reinspired to break up the monotony of our lunches and since both my son and I carry lunch each day, I was on the hunt for some interesting lunch ideas that would bring back memories of foods we tasted on our adventure abroad. I found a great food blog in India that has some really basic, yet satisfying recipes that have been well-received in our house. These are all vegetarian which was a plus for us and I was surprised at how easy it was to source all of the ingredients at our local Trader Joes.

If you are looking to expand beyond the classic sandwich once or twice a week or if you have a picky eater, have a look at the recipes for kids and lunch on this blog. I have found some wonderful inspiration.

http://indianhealthyrecipes.com/kids-lunch-box-recipes-indian-vegetarian/

Another great site that offers veg and non-veg options for the youngest of eaters is Annabel Karmel. I have been a fan of her kids cooking books for years and wonder over to her blog for inspiration when I get the chance.

http://www.annabelkarmel.com/blog/take-your-fussy-eater-on-a-world-taste-tour