23 Gluten-Free & Vegan School Lunch Ideas
These vegan gluten-free lunch ideas are kid-approved and lunchbox ready. From sandwiches and wraps to hot meals and sweet treats, I've gathered my favorite options that make packing school lunches so much easier.

Let's be real. Back to school time is stressful. That is, unless you find rummaging through the collection of folders strewn about the Wal-Mart shelves to find that elusive LOL or Minecraft one your kid MUST have this year a good time, then you'll appreciate a little stress relief in the lunchtime department...especially if you are the parent of a gluten-free, vegan kiddo.
So, without further ado, let's get to the food...
Sandwiches, Wraps & Burgers
Thermos-Friendly Hot Lunches
Savory Snacks & Sides
Muffins & Scones
No-Bake Bites & Sweet Treats
I hope you (and your kids) enjoy these recipes! Have a great school year
Tips for Packing Gluten-Free Vegan School Lunches
Invest in a good Thermos. Hot lunches are a game-changer. Heat the Thermos with boiling water for 5 minutes before adding food, and it stays warm until lunchtime.
Prep on Sundays. I batch cook nuggets, energy balls, and soup on weekends. Mornings go much smoother when everything just needs to be packed.
Keep nuggets crispy. Place a folded paper towel at the bottom of the Thermos to absorb steam. Works for any breaded item.
Pack dips separately. Hummus, ranch, and sauces go in small containers. Kids can dip at lunchtime without soggy sandwiches.
Let them choose. When kids pick from a list of approved options, they're more likely to actually eat lunch. I keep a menu on the fridge.
More Vegan Gluten-Free Recipe Roundups
- 20 Easy Vegan Snacks for Kids
- 30+ Best Vegan Sandwiches for Lunch
- Best Vegan Air Fryer Recipes for Every Meal
- 20+ Gluten-Free & Vegan Oat Flour Recipes
- 25 Easy High Protein Vegan Meal Prep Ideas
- 20 Easy Vegan College Recipes
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Wow what a great list of ideas! They are all so delicious sounding especially the vegan chickpea salad sandwich! This is such a helpful list for all the parents out there! Thanks for sharing Sherri!
Thank you, Christie! 🙂
Wonderful collection. Can’t believe my oldest baby is starting school soon!! I’ll be trying out several of these recipes. Thanks so much for including my chickpea nuggets!
Thank you Rosa and for your awesome recipe! Good luck with your first school experience! 🙂
This is a great round-up. Looks like so many great recipes. Hard to believe that school is starting again.
Thanks so much, Dawn! I hear that! School came up on us early this year for sure!
Many thanks for including my Chickpea Crackers as part of this lovely round-up! xo.
Thank you Kristen and thanks for your amazing recipe! 🙂
Such a great list! Thanks for including my mac 'n cheese!
Thanks so much for the awesome recipe! 🙂