Getting back into the swing of things after the school holidays can feel like an uphill battle. But armed with a few fail-safe recipes, and a little bit of prep, you can boss school-run breakfasts, packed lunches, and we’ve got you covered with our after-school dinner ideas too. These family recipes will be a lifesaver after a summer away from the hustle and bustle of the academic year.
So, get back to school ready with our simple and nutritious family recipes that can all be prepped ahead or batch-cooked, so you can feel ahead of the game.
Breakfasts on the go
Boss the school run by prepping a batch of muffins or a veg-packed omelette that can be eaten on the go. Failing that, have a healthy homemade loaf sliced on stand-by in the freezer, ready to toast each morning.
Eggy bread muffins
These lovely muffins are super filling, uses up stale bread lying around in your kitchen, and it’s a perfect way to pack your veg in. Dig in!
Mini super-fruit breakfast wraps
Ready in ten minutes, these breakfast wraps are the perfect start to your day and pair perfectly with your berries of choice. Top with toasted seeds for the finishing touch.
Jools’ breakfast on the go
These breakfast pots are a life-saver when you’re running late. Throw it together before you go to bed, and grab it from the fridge as you head out.
Kale, ricotta & squash omelette
Incorporate some vegetables into your little ones’ breakfast with this delicious omelette recipe.
Back to school lunchbox ideas
From veg-packed sandwiches to noodle and pasta salads, pack the kids off with a balanced lunchbox that will keep them going ’til hometime.
Pepper & noodle salad
Light and delicious, this pepper and noodle salad is quick, easy and packed with vegetables. It’s a win for everyone involved!
Pea & Popeye pesto pasta
Your little ones will be the star of the lunch-hall with these gorgeous green pasta pots.
Simple houmous
High in protein and fibre, chickpeas are delicious little balls of micronutrients. Blitzed into hummus, they make the perfect snack for your kid’s packed lunch. Pair it with carrots, celery or breadsticks for a great lunch.
Squash it sandwich
This salad sandwich is a great way to use up any leftover salad, but even better when fresh. Super easy and tasty, this salad-meets-bun is the ultimate school lunch.
Crunchy carrot pittas
The kids will love prepping this crunchy carrot goodness. Sandwiched in a wholemeal pitta, there will only be crumbs left behind when they get their hands on them.
After-school snacks
Prep a few nutritious snacks that will restore energy levels and keep the after-school slump at bay.
Marmite popcorn
Marmite and pop-corn? A match made in heaven. This great low-sugar snack will keep the kids going until dinner time.
Sweet potato muffins
You can batch-prep these gorgeous sweet potato muffins for those tiring, post-school club evenings.
Quinoa & kale muffins
Don’t know what to do with your left-over cooked quinoa? Try out these delicious quinoa and kale muffins, the kids will come back for more!
Jools’ easy oaty fruit cookies
These high-fibre, comforting oats fruit cookies are a Jools go-to. Try them out to see why!
Energy balls
These energy balls are super-nutritious and packed with flavour. Two balls per snack are enough for the energy perks and delicious taste.
Easy family meals
Cooking for little ones and adults isn’t always easy, so we’re turning to Jools for her brilliant, midweek family recipes.
Jools’ fish pie
Healthy, tasty, and even better the next day, give Jools’ fish pie a go.
Jools’ easy chicken curry
Who could ever go wrong with a good old curry? Here’s Jools’ easy guide on the family classic.
Jools’ simple beef stew
Hearty, warming and a great one to store for later, this simple beef stew recipe is one every parent needs under their belt.
Jools’ simple chicken & veg stew
Another stew for another busy weeknight — this simple chicken and veg stew is bound to be a favourite after a busy day at school.
Jools’ Asian-style salmon
Introduce your kids to bolder flavours with this salmon recipe inspired by delicious Asian flavours like soy, mirin or sweet sherry.
Hungry for more? You’ll find loads more recipes in our Family hub