How to Prepare the Perfect Bento Box Lunch

Japanese bento boxes are becoming increasingly popular in lunchrooms across the country

Prepare turkey or mediterranean pinwheels as a quick, delicious and perfect lunch for your child.

Japanese bento boxes are becoming increasingly popular in lunchrooms across the country

Bento boxes, a staple in Japanese kitchens for centuries, have been gaining a foothold in lunchrooms across the country, and for good reason. Their chic compartments make packing picture-perfect lunches a breeze.


Get inspired with these quick and colorful bento box lunches sure to make your child feel like a back-to-school superstar.

Turkey Pinwheels

  • 2 1/2 ounces low-sodium deli turkey 
  • 1 ounce sliced Swiss cheese 
  • 1 whole wheat, low-carb tortilla 
  • 1 tablespoon honey mustard 
  • 1/4 cup iceberg lettuce 
  • 2 tablespoons shredded carrots 
  • Salt and pepper to taste 


  1. Lay the turkey slices on the tortilla and spread honey mustard on them. 
  2. Put the sliced cheese on top, then follow with the vegetables. 
  3. Season the filling and roll the tortilla tight, creating a spiral. 
  4. Cut into bite-size pieces and serve.


Calories: 410 Fat: 13 g Saturated fat: 6.5 g Cholesterol: 51.1 mg Sodium: 1,165.3 mg Carbohydrates: 38.3 g Fiber: 21.6 g Protein: 30.9 g

Mediterranean Veggie Pinwheels

  • 3 ounces hummus 
  • 2 ounces sliced cucumbers 
  • 2 ounces diced tomato 
  • 8-inch green tortilla 
  • 1 teaspoon toasted pine nuts 
  • 1 teaspoon chopped parsley 


  1. Spread the hummus on the tortilla. 
  2. Top with the remaining ingredients. 
  3. Roll the tortilla tightly into a pinwheel. 
  4. Cut into bite-size pieces and serve.


Calories: 313 Fat: 9.4 g Saturated fat: 1.1 g Cholesterol: 0 mg Sodium: 492.7 mg Carbohydrates: 49 g Fiber: 4.7 g Protein: 10 g

Optional sides

  • Grapes
  • Stone fruits
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Low-fat cheese
  • Veggie chips
Scripps Clinic vice president of primary care and internist Siu Ming Geary, MD. is featured on the cover of the September issue of San Diego Health.

This content appeared in San Diego Health, a publication in partnership between Scripps and San Diego Magazine that celebrates the healthy spirit of San Diego.