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Lunch Box: Gyro Burgers

What's on the kids' lunch menus this time? A little Greek culture...doesn't that sound delicious?

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What's with the Plate Smashing?

Simply put, the Greek tradition of throwing plates to the floor at the end of the meal is a symbol of celebration. It has been said that it all began when a rich family invited a poorer family over for dinner, and in an effort to demonstrate the idea that friendship is more important than money, the guests were encouraged to break their plates at the end of the meal.

While this tradition is widely known, it is actually illegal in Greece's restaurants now, which isn't all that surprising--flying shards of crockery were bound to cause a problem at some point.

Can't picture it? Curl up on the couch with a cinematic taste of Greek culture by watching Zorba the Greek.

What's For Lunch

Gyro Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce, a Mediterranean Greek Salad, and Greek Butter Cookies will make the kids want to stand up and dance. Keep the breakable plates out of reach though--they may be compelled to smash them on the floor but not really understand why. (The compelling urge to comply with traditional customs can really sneak up on a kid.)

Serve this Mediterranean lunch menu with low-fat milk or water, and try making your own pita bread if you’re feeling adventurous--Opa!

Lunch Box Logic

Make ahead: Make everything the night before, then assemble the burger in the morning.
Make it different: Have a feeling the kids aren't going to be smashing plates over the thought of a Greek salad? Cut up some cucumbers and carrots instead, and pack some Tzatziki Sauce for dipping.
Make it travel well: Line the pita with lettuce so the Tzatkiki Sauce doesn't soak into the pita.
Make it lighter: Skip the sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil in the Mediterranean Greek Salad. Use ground turkey in place of ground beef and/or ground lamb.