Almond Butter and Banana Sandwiches: The Perfect Lunchbox Treat!

Makes one serving

This is my kids' favorites for lunch or an after school snack. It takes minutes to make and is the perfect combination of protein, fat and complex carbs. The almond butter (or sunflower butter as an alternative) is loaded with both protein and omega 3 fatty acids, which sustain energy and concentration. The banana adds just the right sweetness and the star-shaped raisin bread makes this filling snack fun to eat.

Feel free to cut into any shape you like. Better yet, let the kids help cut the bread into shapes or spread the almond butter. Don’t be afraid to let them get messy! Some of my favorite memories involve getting my hands dirty in the kitchen with my grandmother. When kids are involved in making their food, they are usually more invested in eating it. It is a win, win situation. It is my number one tip in helping kids to transition to eating a healthier diet.

Ingredients: 
2 slices of Ezekiel sprouted raisin bread or any whole grain bread
1 tablespoon of almond, cashew or sunflower butter
½ banana, sliced
½ teaspoon flax seed
Drizzle with maple syrup
Cinnamon sprinkled on top, if desired

Directions: 
1. Spread the butter of choice on raisin bread.
2. Slice bananas and then sprinkle with cinnamon, flax seeds and drizzle maple syrup on the bread.

Who is Ezekiel? 
Food for Life's Ezekiel bread, English muffins and bagels are popular products in the whole food community. They get their name from the biblical prophet Ezekiel, who declared in the Book of Ezekiel: "Take also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentils, and millet, and spelt, and put them in one vessel and make bread of it." The bread that was eaten by Ezekiel for two years while he was exiled in the desert. It is claimed that the formula’s six grains and legumes, when sprouted and combined, create a protein similar to the protein found in milk and eggs.