With September here and the kids back in school, weekdays may be quieter at home, but the morning rush is just beginning. The challenge? Getting your children fed, out the door on time, and packing lunches they’ll actually eat.
Daryl Turner, owner of M&M Food Market in Royal Oak, shares his top picks for healthy, hot breakfasts that can be ready in under 10 minutes, along with hot lunch ideas to keep kids satisfied — without adding to your morning workload.
Quick school-day breakfast in under 10 minutes
Omelette bites: M&M's spinach and red pepper, or picky-eater-approved bacon and cheddar omelette bites offer a protein-packed breakfast option that’s quick and nutritious.
Croissant breakfast sandwich: For kids who need a heartier breakfast, M&M's croissant breakfast sandwich with egg, bacon and cheese is a filling and healthy choice.
Single-serve and mini quiche: M&M also offers single-serve quiche in three flavours, along with mini-quiche that can double as a great hot lunch item.
Hot lunch solutions kids will love
Quesadillas: Individually wrapped chicken or beef quesadillas are a fun mid-week lunch option that’s easy to eat on the go.
Loaded pepperoni hand pies: Ready to go in under 10 minutes, M&M's loaded pepperoni hand pies offer all the flavours of a pepperoni pizza in a convenient on-the-go pastry crust. They’re also available in a savoury steak and mushroom variety.
Kid-friendly appetizers: M&M's popular appetizers can also make great hot lunch options. Mix up your child’s lunch by packing items like popcorn chicken, taco bites, mini franks in pastry, or pepperoni pizza rolls.
Tips for keeping food hot and fresh
- Preheat the Thermos: Fill your child’s Thermos with boiling water for at least five minutes before adding food to help retain heat.
- Prevent soggy lunches: To keep items like popcorn chicken crispy, place a folded paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture.
Visit M&M Food Market in Royal Oak at 4442 W Saanich Rd. #107 or at their Shelbourne location – 3637 Shelbourne St. Find them online at mmfoodmarket.com and follow on Facebook.
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