CHARLOTTE, NC - Backpacks are zipped, lunchboxes are packed, and kids across the country are getting ready to hit the classroom. As such, parents are looking for the easiest and healthiest ways to fuel their little scholars, and Dole Food Company is here to help. The supplier recently launched its “15-Minute-Made Meals” recipes that put fresh produce at the center of the plate.

“As the leisurely summer schedule gives way to early-morning wake-up calls, nightly homework, and more late nights at work, it may feel impossible to maintain a healthy-eating routine,” said Melanie Marcus, MA, RD, Dole’s Nutrition and Health Communications Manager. “Our '15-Minute-Made Meal' recipes are kid-friendly and lend themselves to time-starved families. We’ve also incorporated some of my favorite DOLE® Salad Kits and DOLE Sheet Pan Starter Meal Kits to take the guesswork out of healthy fall meal planning.”

This latest set of 20 recipes represents the August installment of the “Healthier by Dole” series of nutritious alternatives to popular dishes enjoyed during life’s big and small moments, a press release noted. Led by Marcus, the monthly program has inspired healthier tailgates, BBQs, picnics, and holidays so far this year.

While cook times vary, each Dole entrée, sandwich, side dish, smoothie, and dessert recipe requires a prep time of 15 minutes or less, and most are gluten-free, vegetarian, and/or vegan. Some of the recipes include:

• Banana Breakfast Sandwiches
• Protein-Packed Savory Oatmeal
• Tropical Green Smoothie
• All-American Burger Bowl
• French Onion Turkey Burger with Veggies
• Herb Salmon and Foil Pack Grillers
• Tropical Banana Split Milkshake
• 3 Ingredient Banana Drop Cookies

Retailers, take note of the different product pairings utilized in these recipes; they just might inspire your next great merchandising strategy!

For more fresh produce news, stick with ANUK.

Dole Food Company