10-Minute Kids Lunch: Cheddar Cheese, Chutney, Apple Sandwich

Who has time to whip up something inventive when PB&J will do?

But we on the ATK Kids team don’t think you should have to sacrifice flavor for convenience. That’s why we love the Cheddar Cheese, Chutney, and Apple Sandwich from The Complete Baby and Toddler Cookbook, which has a whole chapter dedicated to lunches meant for even the littlest kids—though older ones will devour them too.

This simple sandwich is all about balancing flavors and textures. Sweet and gooey apple chutney plays off tart and crisp Granny Smith apples, while sharp and creamy cheddar cheese keeps this lunch from veering into dessert territory. Think of this as a special kids’ cheese plate between two pieces of bread.

You can find all sorts of apple chutneys at the store, but for this sandwich, we recommend using an apple chutney with a complementary fruit ingredient like cranberry, rather than a spice-­forward one such as ginger. You can also use whatever kind of bread you like.

All you’ve got to do is spread the chutney on each piece of bread, layer slices of sharp cheddar cheese and apple, season with a little salt and pepper, and you’re done.

Lunch for your child in under 10 minutes—and so good that you’ll probably be tempted to take a bite, too.

1. Spread 2 tablespoons apple chutney evenly over 2 slices hearty multigrain sandwich bread. Arrange 2 ounces sharp (or extra-sharp) cheddar cheese slices in even layer on one slice of bread, followed by ¼ Granny Smith apple, sliced thin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Top with remaining bread slice, with chutney on inside. Cut in half. Serve or pack in lunch box.