popcorn is quite healthy

i find when i get them to help out to make them they intend to eat them more.

sushi, rice paper rolls. are great

My teens like rice paper rolls, wraps, frittata, zucchini slice, left over pasta etc. Also once a fortnight they have lunch from the canteen.

Teens often like to be independent and make their own lunches with guidance from parents.

In all honesty, I just give them what they want so they’ll eat. Obviously, not to the extent where it’s like fast food or whatever but my kid (not a teen) will tell me what she wants otherwise if I pack otherwise, it doesn’t get eaten.
It’s a compromise, so if she says she wants nuggets then I’ll make at home rather than get store bought ones and same with muffins and the like.
Good luck!

It can be helpful to discuss what foods are enjoyed and also involve the child in making healthy snacks and food. There are a wealth of good cookbooks for young people and teens.

Things like dip, crackers and carrot sticks. Favourite fruits. Savory muffins. One of mine didn’t like his school lunches either. It was really difficult but through getting him involved in writing the shopping list ( going shopping was not on his agenda) he eventually ate some things at school. Out of my three he probably eats the most variety and healthiest food now. Hang in there

Thanks ladies for these helpful tips.

I was such a fussy eater at school, I’ve always hated a sandwich.
My suggestions would be a puff pastry tart square. So easy, and you can top with what ever veg, meat or cheese they like. They last well in the fridge.
A poke bowl inspired meal. Rice, some raw slaw, and a protein. Season sliced chicken breast or just some diced rotisserie chicken.
Yoghurt parfait cups. Buy a set of reusable containers and fill with seasonal fresh fruit, yoghurt and muesli.
Options that are filling and full of energy giving goodness. Hope you find something they like.

Totally understand your struggle. How about trying some fun and easy recipes like wraps with veggies and hummus, fruit skewers, or homemade trail mix?

Savoury muffins, cheese or dips & crackers, homemade pizza pinwheels.

Although i don’t have a teenage yet, looking back at the things i use to love in my lunches was a mix of a few things, healthy and a little treat. I was very simple but i loved a simple sandwich or ham and cheese scroll with some strawberries, maybe a mini muffin that mum would make in advance. Mini quiches or muffins are always a great idea as you can mix them up with different ingredient each time.