THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Kids Meal
Bento Box Idea: Turkey and Cream Cheese for Kids
This easy and nutritious lunch idea combines tender turkey and creamy cheese for a kid-friendly meal that’s both tasty and fun to eat. Perfect for busy school days, it keeps little ones satisfied and energized.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Bento Box Idea: Turkey and Cream Cheese for Kids
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by making the little penguins: carefully slice a slit along the side of each jumbo olive and gently open it up to fill with about a teaspoon of cream cheese—that’s the penguin’s belly. Next, cut a small triangle out of carrot rounds to make feet, and press one of these pieces into the olive to create a beak.
02
Step 2
Thread each olive onto a toothpick lengthwise, then anchor the toothpick into a carrot slice so the belly faces the feet. Top the olive with a small olive beak facing forward. Place these adorable penguins on a plate and pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the lunch.
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Step 3
For the sandwich spread, mix shredded carrot, onion, pimento peppers, and celery in a bowl. In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, lemon juice, mayo, and a pinch of salt until fluffy. Fold the veggie mixture into the cream cheese and chill for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.
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Step 4
Toss green and red apple slices with a little lemon juice to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Use vegetable cutters to shape carrot rounds into fun designs, then wrap them in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the fridge.
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Step 5
Pat cucumber slices dry, then place a half-slice of tomato at one end and roll it up, securing with a toothpick for a cute little roll.
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Step 6
When you’re ready to pack, arrange half the carrot shapes in the bento box. Spoon half the sandwich spread into a small silicone cup and add some crackers to another. Add the apple slices, grapes, the cream cheese penguins, turkey slices, and cucumber-tomato rolls. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make a second box. Keep everything chilled until it’s time to eat.
Why you’ll love it
This meal is both fun and nutritious, making it perfect for kids. It combines protein and creamy texture in a way that is easy to eat and enjoyable. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, saving time for busy parents.
How to serve
Pair this with colorful fruit slices and a small handful of crackers or rice balls. Including a little container of dipping sauce like soy sauce or honey mustard can make it more exciting for kids to eat.
Storage & leftovers
Keep the prepared box in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. It’s best eaten within one day to avoid sogginess, especially if you add fresh vegetables or fruits.
