LEFTOVER LUNCH MAGIC

Time flies. It’s the fourth term of school, and the kids are back, ready to give this year their last shot to move to the next grade. 

I know for some of us, the year has been a rollercoaster, full of ups, downs, and unexpected challenges, but this term, we are determined to give it a bang. 

As parents and guardians, we are right there alongside them, cheering, guiding, celebrating small wins, and sharing in every small victory. 

Things get tougher, the workload grows, and the pressure can feel overwhelming. 

But with determination, support, and a little bit of love packed into their lunchbox, they can see the year through with flying colours.

Packing lunch doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. In fact, yesterday’s dinner can be

transformed into nutritious, versatile lunchbox meals that keep learners energised and focused.

These lunchboxes are not only delicious but also practical. 

And you know how the ‘broke besties’ get bored of eating the same thing so quickly, and in President Cyril’s economy, the last thing you need is an unfinished lunchbox that has to be thrown out. 

For some reason, they can’t seem to bring back the food still intact. 

If it’s not the bread corners coming back, it’s plain bread with the filling removed. Right then, you just feel like screaming your lungs out.

The good news is that with a little creativity, leftovers can be turned into meals that are not only appealing but also packed with nutrition. 

Chicken provides protein for growth and staying full; mince and boerewors add iron and energy; beef and lamb support brain function and overall development; and peanut butter gives healthy fats and protein to keep kids energised.

By using leftovers creatively, you can make meals that are fun, balanced, and perfect for little explorers of flavour.

Adding little touches, like a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a slice of avocado, or playful sandwich shapes, allows kids to explore taste and textures, making lunchtime fun while still being wholesome. 

With these recipes, you don’t just pack food; you pack motivation, love, care and encouragement.

Leftover Chicken Sandwich (See lead pic)

Classic lunchbox favourite - soft bread, creamy chicken and a little crunch. Simple to make, easy to pack, and always a winner.

Ingredients

1-2 slices of bread or a fresh roll

½ cup shredded leftover chicken

1 teaspoon mayonnaise or chutney

Optional: a slice of tomato or lettuce

Fun lift: a few thin slices of avocado

Garnish boost: a sprinkle of chopped chives or fresh parsley

Method

Shred the leftover chicken into small pieces. Mix with mayonnaise or chutney until well coated. Spread the mixture onto the bread or stuff into the roll. Add tomato, lettuce, avocado and herbs. Slice the sandwich in half and pack into a lunchbox Pack into a lunchbox with juice or water, a piece of fruit and a small snack, like a yoghurt.

Tip: Lightly toasting the bread helps the sandwich hold together and adds a nice crunch.

Leftover Mince or Boerewors Roll

A hearty, flavour-packed roll that turns yesterday’s mince or boerewors into a lunchbox hit. Quick to make, fun to eat, and always satisfying.

Ingredients

1 roll or 2 slices of bread

½ cup leftover mince or 1-2 slices of boerewors

Optional: a slice of cheese or tomato

Fun lift: a small sprinkle of sweetcorn or chopped peppers

Garnish boost: a few fresh coriander leaves or a light dusting of paprika

Method

Heat the leftover mince or slice the boerewors if cold. Place inside the roll or between the bread slices. Add cheese, tomato and sprinkle with sweetcorn or peppers. Garnish with fresh coriander or paprika for a pop of flavour and colour. Pack the roll or sandwich into the lunchbox. Include a drink (juice or water), a piece of fruit, and a small snack, like popcorn.

Tip: Wrap the roll in wax paper or foil to keep it neat and easy to eat.

Mini Beef or Lamb Pies

Flaky, golden mini pies that turn leftover beef or lamb into a delicious, fun lunchbox treat. Perfect for after-school snacks too!

Ingredients

1 sheet of ready-rolled pastry (or homemade pastry)

½ cup leftover cooked beef or lamb, chopped into small pieces

1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

1 teaspoon tomato paste or sauce

Fun lift: a sprinkle of grated cheese on top

Garnish boost: sesame seeds or a light dusting of paprika

Method

Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Cut the pastry into small squares or circles. Spoon a little chopped beef or lamb onto each piece. Add tomato paste and onion if using. Fold the pastry over and seal the edges. Sprinkle cheese and sesame seeds or paprika on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and flaky. Pack the mini pies into the lunchbox. Include a drink (juice or water), a piece of fruit, and a small snack, like pretzels, mini crackers, or a few dried fruit pieces.

Tip: Brush the tops with a little milk before baking for a golden, shiny finish that kids will love.

Peanut Butter & Jam with a Twist

A timeless favourite, made a little more exciting with a healthy, flavour-boosting addition. Quick, filling, and perfect for a school lunch.

Ingredients

2 slices of bread (white, brown, or seeded)

2 tablespoons peanut butter

1-2 teaspoons jam or fruit preserve

Special ingredient: thinly sliced banana or a sprinkle of chia seeds

Optional: a light drizzle of honey or a few crushed nuts

Method

Spread peanut butter evenly over one slice of bread. Spread jam over the other slice. Add the banana slices or sprinkle chia seeds for a tasty, nutritious twist. Press the slices together and cut into halves or fun shapes. Pack the sandwich into a lunchbox with a small piece of fruit or a few cheese cubes.

Tip: Cut the sandwich into fun shapes to make it more exciting and appealing for kids.