What are the healthy snacks for kids in school in Indian?

Finding the right snacks for kids to take to school can be a daily struggle. You want something tasty, easy to prepare, and above all, healthy. Thankfully, Indian cuisine offers nutritious and kid-friendly snack options that check all these boxes.

Here are five healthy Indian snacks that are perfect for school lunchboxes. Each one comes with a simple recipe and an ingredients list. These snacks are quick to prepare and loved by kids of all ages!

1. Vegetable Poha (Flattened Rice)

Why it’s healthy: Poha is rich in iron and carbohydrates and easy to digest. The added vegetables make it even more nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup poha (flattened rice)

• 1 small onion (chopped)

• 1/4 cup chopped carrots

• 1/4 cup green peas

• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds

• 1 green chili (optional)

• 1/4 tsp turmeric

• Salt to taste

• 1 tbsp oil

• Fresh coriander leaves

• Lemon juice

Recipe:

1. Rinse poha in water and let it sit in a sieve to drain.

2. Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds.

3. Once they splutter, add onions, green chili, and vegetables.

4. Cook until soft, then add turmeric and salt.

5. Mix in poha and stir gently.

6. Cook for 2–3 minutes, garnish with coriander and lemon juice.

2. Mini Vegetable Idlis

Why it’s healthy: Fermented foods like idlis promote gut health and digestion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup idli batter

• 1/4 cup grated carrots

• 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach

• Salt to taste

Recipe:

1. Mix veggies into the batter.

2. Pour into mini idli molds.

3. Steam for 10–12 minutes until cooked.

4. Cool and pack with chutney or ketchup.

3. Whole Wheat Vegetable Paratha Rolls

Why it’s healthy: Whole wheat and veggies make this a fiber-rich, satisfying snack.

• 1 cup whole wheat flour

• Water for kneading

• 1/4 cup grated carrots

• 1/4 cup chopped spinach

• 1/4 tsp cumin powder

• Salt to taste

• Ghee or oil for cooking

Recipe:

1. Knead dough with flour, veggies, and spices.

2. Roll into small parathas and cook on a tawa with ghee.

3. Roll and cut into bite-sized pieces.

4. Ragi Banana Muffins

Why it’s healthy: Ragi is rich in calcium and iron, while banana adds natural sweetness.

• 1 cup ragi flour

• 1 ripe banana (mashed)

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/4 cup jaggery or honey

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 2 tbsp oil or butter

Recipe:

1. Mix all ingredients into a smooth batter.

2. Pour into muffin cups.

3. Bake at 180°C for 15–20 minutes.

5. Fruit and Nut Mix

Why it’s healthy: Loaded with natural sugars, good fats, and essential nutrients.

Ingredients:

• A handful of almonds

• A handful of cashews

• A handful of raisins

• 1-2 dates (chopped)

• Dried apricots or figs (optional)

Recipe:

1. Mix all ingredients in an airtight container.

2. Serve as a quick snack.

These snacks are not only healthy but also delicious and easy to pack. They help your child stay energized and focused throughout the school day. Try rotating these ideas during the week to keep things fun and varied.