Need a fresh lunchbox idea that your child will actually eat? This fruity rice salad is a firm favourite in our house — it’s easy to make, kids love helping to mix it together, and best of all, you can prepare it up to two days in advance. That means one less thing to think about on busy school mornings.
The combination of wholegrain rice, sweet raisins, crunchy apple, and a hint of honey-mustard dressing makes this a lunchbox that feels like a treat, while still packing in some good stuff for growing kids.
Fruity Rice Salad
Ingredients:
- 250g cooked wholegrain basmati rice, cooled
- 30g raisins and sultanas
- 40g low-fat cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 apple, cored and cut into small cubes (tossed in a little lemon juice)
- 75g frozen peas
- 35g sliced ham, chopped
- 1 lemon, zest and a squeeze of juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp runny honey
Method:
In a bowl, mix together the cooked rice, raisins and sultanas, cheese cubes, chopped apple, peas and sliced ham.
In a small bowl, whisk together a squeeze of lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard and honey, and season to taste.
Pour the dressing over the rice salad, give it another good stir, then cover and chill until ready to serve.
This salad is a great one to get kids involved with too — little hands are perfect for stirring, and it’s a gentle way to introduce them to new flavours and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this rice salad ahead of time?
Yes — that’s one of the best things about it. You can make the full salad and chill it in the fridge for up to two days before it’s needed, making it ideal for batch-prepping lunches for the week ahead.
Can I swap the ham for a vegetarian option?
Absolutely. The ham can be left out or swapped for another protein your child enjoys, such as cooked chicken, chickpeas, or extra cheese.
Will the apple go brown in the lunchbox?
Tossing the chopped apple in a little lemon juice before mixing (as in the recipe) helps slow down browning, so it should still look appetising by lunchtime.
Is this recipe suitable for younger children?
The ingredients are simple and mild, but always check for any allergies (particularly nuts, dairy, and gluten) and cut pieces to a size appropriate for your child’s age.
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Looking for more lunchbox inspiration? Check out our roundup of 100 Healthy Lunchbox Ideas Your Kids Will Love for more easy, kid-approved recipes to keep lunchboxes interesting all year round.
Want More Lunchbox Inspiration?
Short on time? Browse our family food section for more quick, kid-friendly recipes you can prep ahead — and save this one for whenever you need a fresh lunchbox idea.
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