Save to Pinterest A playful and nutritious lunch board arranged to resemble a lions face, perfect for children and family gatherings. Bursting with colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein, its as delightful to eat as it is to look at.
This lunch board has become a favorite at our family gatherings, sparking creativity and smiles with every serving.
Ingredients
- Whole wheat sandwich thins: 4 (for lions face)
- Hummus or cream cheese: 1 cup (for spreading)
- Shredded carrots: 1 cup (lions mane)
- Orange bell pepper strips: 1 cup (lions mane)
- Yellow cherry tomatoes, halved: 1 cup (mane accents)
- Cucumber slices: 1 cup (face accents)
- Black olives, pitted and sliced: 8 (eyes, nose, whiskers)
- Small apple, sliced: 1 (lions mouth)
- Cheddar cheese slices, cut into triangles: 4 (for ears)
- Grapes or berries: 1 cup (side snacks)
- Snap peas: 1 cup (side snacks)
- Mini crackers: 1 cup (side snacks)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Lay the sandwich thins flat on a large platter as the base for four lion faces.
- Step 2:
- Spread a generous layer of hummus or cream cheese over each sandwich thin.
- Step 3:
- Arrange shredded carrots and orange bell pepper strips in a circle around each sandwich thin to create the lions mane, alternating colors for a lively effect.
- Step 4:
- Place yellow cherry tomato halves around the mane for added color and texture.
- Step 5:
- Use cucumber slices for cheeks or accents on the face.
- Step 6:
- Arrange black olive slices for eyes and nose add thin strips as whiskers.
- Step 7:
- Position apple slices to form a smiling mouth.
- Step 8:
- Cut cheddar cheese into triangles and set them at the top of each face for ears.
- Step 9:
- Fill the boards remaining spaces with grapes snap peas and mini crackers for additional snacks.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately for best freshness.
Save to Pinterest Preparing and sharing the lion lunch board has created many joyful family moments and encouraged healthy eating habits.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or board Small knife Vegetable peeler or grater Small bowls (for dips or loose items)
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (sandwich thins crackers) and milk (cheese cream cheese) Contains legumes (hummus) Contains possible tree nuts if using nut-based dips Always check labels for allergens and cross-contamination risks
Nutritional Information
Calories 320 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 50 g Protein 9 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This lion lunch board is perfect for bringing fun and nutrition to your table in a memorable way.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients create the lion’s mane?
Shredded carrots, orange bell pepper strips, and yellow cherry tomato halves are arranged in a circle to form the lion’s mane with vibrant color and texture.
- → How is the lion’s face formed on the board?
Whole wheat sandwich thins serve as the base, with spreads like hummus or cream cheese and cucumber slices, black olives, apple slices, and cheddar cheese cut into shapes to represent facial features.
- → Can this be adapted for different diets?
Yes, swap cream cheese for dairy-free spreads and use plant-based cheese for a vegan-friendly version. Protein can be added with turkey or ham for non-vegetarian options.
- → What are some good beverage pairings?
Light apple juice or herbal teas complement the fresh flavors and keep the meal refreshing and balanced.
- → How long does the preparation take?
The board can be prepared in about 20 minutes, with no cooking required, making it quick and easy for gatherings.