As the new school year begins, there’s no better time to support small businesses while getting your kids prepped and to fill those lunchboxes with local freshness! The Dallas Farmers Market is a great place to shop for fresh back to school produce, pantry items, snacks and so much more.

Handmade snacks are the best when you use seasonal produce and unique varieties for mouthwatering watermelon bites, locally ground peanut butter + jelly sandwiches, locally harvested honey sticks and crunchy protein packs! Plus, there is no long distance shipping and no sitting for weeks in storage. This food is as FRESH as it gets. By purchasing your back-to-school needs from the many small businesses at the Dallas Farmers Market, not only will you enjoy local, fresh, handmade and one of a kind items; you will also support local agriculture and small businesses here in our community!

Farmers Market Finds: Lunchbox Item Ideas for Kids

  1. Fresh Produce – Seasonal Fruits and Veggies: Pick up fresh fruits like watermelon, peaches, or berries, and vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a healthy lunchbox or even a fun charcuterie.
  2. Artisan Bread – Local Shed vendors offer freshly baked bread, perfect for sandwiches!
  3. Cheeses: Look for delicious curated cheeses from Scardello Artisan Cheese that can be paired with crackers or included in a sandwich.
  4. Snacks: Granola and Nut Mixes: Kelley Produce offers homemade granola, nut mixes and dried fruits, ideal for a quick snack. Plus get some healthy protein packs from Mighty Beans at The Shed.
  5. Local Honey (Lonestar Specialty Foods + Honey Apple Farm), Handcrafted Nut Butters (The Nutty Side) and Jams (Rockin JR Ranch): Great for spreading on bread or adding a sweet touch. Get your locally made items from The Shed on the weekends.
Farmers Market Finds: Breakfast + Lunchbox Ideas
  1. Mini Frittatas – Ingredients: Farm-fresh eggs, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cheese. Assembly: Whisk eggs and mix in chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Pour into a muffin tin and bake. These mini frittatas can be made in advance and are perfect for a protein-packed breakfast.
  2. Colorful Veggie Wraps – Ingredients: Whole wheat tortillas, fresh spinach, carrots, cucumbers (from Kelley Produce), and hummus from Brother’s Produce at The Shed. Assembly: Spread hummus on the tortilla, layer with fresh spinach, grated carrots, and sliced cucumbers. Roll it up for a veggie-packed wrap that’s easy to eat and full of crunch.
  3. DIY Lunchables – Ingredients: Artisan cheese + deli meats from Scardello Artisan Cheese, whole grain crackers, and seasonal fruit. Assembly: Pack a mix of sliced meats, cheese cubes, crackers, and fruit for a balanced and customizable lunch. Plus add hummus for dipping!

By incorporating seasonal ingredients and supporting local businesses, there are so many possibilities to ensure that your meals are fresh, healthy, and delicious!