When your day is filled with dancing, it is important to keep your body fueled so you can focus on performing and practicing. With music and choreography on your mind, it can be hard to prep for long days of classes or being on stage at conventions and competitions. To keep things easy as you pack your dance bag, we’ve compiled a list of easy meal ideas for dancers that are always in motion.
Cheese and crackers
You can never go wrong with cheese and crackers! Pack a spreadable cheese such as cheddar or do block cheese such as Colby-jack. You could also include a protein option such as summer sausage, pepperoni, or salami to top it off. For a little variety, switch up this snack with peanut butter and jelly crackers.
Salad kit
If you want something that you can buy that’s simple, you can find salad kits at most grocery stores. There are different options from Caesar to garden to chipotle. A salad option with a protein (like a chicken Caesar salad or a chef salad with ham) is always a great option for dance-heavy days. This is a good option if you are looking for something healthy and filling.
Chicken or Tuna Salad Sandwich
This is a super simple meal to make and carry with you! Add to your sandwich depending on your preference. Change up the bread, add cheese or condiments, and compliment with snacks. Don’t forget your favorite fruit and veggies on the side!
Tacos
This meal can have a lot of variety without much effort. For something really quick plan for walking tacos by packing your favorite chips and a container of ingredients or opt for taco salad or a trio of tacos with different proteins. You can put your tacos together ahead of time or pack all of the ingredients separately to assemble on the go.
Chicken caesar wrap
Those high-intensity days require an easy, filling option. Start with a spinach wrap or tortilla base and fill it with chicken, lettuce, cheese, and caesar dressing. This is also a light option, so you can pack more than one wrap to eat during busy days. It’s just that simple!
Cucumber and Cream cheese sandwich
We love a three-ingredient snack option! This refreshing option is really nice for a summer day when your lunch break is also time to cool off. It’s also a bit different for when you might be tired of other more typical on-the-go foods. It’s easy to bulk up this sandwich by adding a protein like ham or including more greens like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach.
Pizza Sliders
Pizza is always a fun and delicious meal option no matter where you are! For a personal pizza experience with a twist, start with dinner rolls, mozzarella cheese and pizza sauce. From there it’s all about finishing your sandwich with your favorite toppings and toasting it all in the oven.
Mac and cheese
With mac and cheese, the sky is the limit! Start with your favorite cheesy elbow noodles (or shells if you prefer!) You can stop there or add bread crumbs, bacon, or broccoli. You should be your own biggest fan, and mac and cheese is nothing if not a fan favorite.
Ham and Cheese croissant
Croissants are a great option for early morning meals before big dance days. This could be a cold meal if you simply slice open your croissant to house your ham and cheese. You can also turn it into a hot breakfast sandwich or if you’re feeling a little extra, turn this simple option into a panini.