Mini Sweet Capsicum Boats with Avocado Mash
If your kids are anything like mine, snacks need to be fun, tasty, and not too “veggie-forward.” That’s why these mini sweet capsicum boats (aka pepper boats for our international mates!) have become an absolute staple in our house. They’re naturally sweet, easy to prep, and perfect for little hands — making them one of my go-to easy kids lunchbox fillers.
This recipe for mini sweet capsicum boats with avocado mash is a lifesaver when you’re juggling everything in the morning rush. They're bite-sized, packed with flavour, and a great way to sneak in more veg. Whether you're prepping for school lunchboxes, need an after-school snack, or just want something quick and nutritious, these capsicum boats tick all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Sweet Capsicum Boats
5-minute prep – Just slice, scoop, and fill.
Nutrient-dense – Packed with fibre, healthy fats and vitamins.
Kid-friendly – Colourful, crunchy and customisable.
Lunchbox legend – They hold up well in containers and stay fresh.
What Are Mini Sweet Capsicums Good For?
Mini sweet capsicums (or sweet mini peppers) are perfect for kids and adults alike. Unlike larger bell peppers, these little guys are naturally sweeter and less bitter – making them ideal for fussy eaters who usually avoid strong vegetable flavours.
Here’s why they’re great:
Naturally sweet and crunchy – no roasting needed
Portable and mess-free – perfect for snacks and lunchboxes
Great for dipping or stuffing – just the right size for creative fillings
Nutrient-rich – high in Vitamin C, A, and antioxidants
If you’ve grabbed a bag of these at Woolies or your local grocer and you’re wondering what to do with them – this is it.
Kids Snack Perfect for Lunchboxes
As a vegan dad, I’m always on the lookout for easy kid snacks ideas that are actually good for them — and won’t come back half-eaten at the end of the day!
The truth is, most Aussie kids aren’t eating enough fruit and veg. In fact, studies show that the majority fall short of the recommended daily servings — especially when it comes to vegetables. That’s why I love options like these mini sweet capsicum boats. They’re fun, crunchy, and colourful — and most importantly, they help tick off a veg serve early in the day. Just 2–3 mini capsicums (or sweet peppers) equals ½ a cup of veggies!
These little boats are a great alternative to ultra-processed snacks and chips. They're naturally sweet, low fuss, and perfect for little hands. Plus, when filled with creamy avocado mash or hummus, they become a nutrient-dense snack packed with healthy fats, fibre, and flavour.
If you're like me and love stocking the freezer with healthy lunchbox fillers, these are perfect alongside my zucchini fritters, crispy cheesy tofu bites, or even served fresh with a wrap or sandwich. You can prep them the night before and they’ll still hold up by morning — just add a little lemon juice to the avo to keep it vibrant.
Lunchbox Tips from That Vegan Dad
As a dad always on the hunt for simple, plant-based lunchbox wins, these savoury vegan pizza muffins have become a go-to in our house. I love popping them into lunchboxes alongside some fresh fruit, coconut yoghurt, and a little treat from my 7 Weeks of Vegan Kids Lunchbox Ideas spreadsheet.
You’ll find the full guide on my website – it’s packed with snack inspo, easy bakes, and full lunchbox combos designed to take the stress out of weekday mornings.
Filling Variations: Make It Your Own
One of the best things about mini capsicum boats is how versatile they are. You can mix and match the fillings based on what’s in the fridge, or what your kids are vibing that week.
Here are some fun variations to try:
Hummus
Vegan cream cheese + chives
Leftover mac and cheese
Carrot and tofu dip
Rice and beans
Taco mash
Let your kids build their own too – it’s a great way to get them excited about eating veg. Lay out a “boat-building station” and let them choose their fillings.
Time-Saving Tips for these Mini Sweet Capsicum Boats with Avocado Mash
Pre-cut capsicums and store them in a container with a damp paper towel – they'll stay fresh for a few days.
Use pre-made dips like hummus or store-bought guacamole for even quicker prep.
Mash avocado the night before with lemon juice to stop browning.
FAQs – Mini Capsicum Boats
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! If you're using avocado, just add lemon juice and store in an airtight container overnight. Hummus and other dips will last even longer.
Can I use full-sized capsicums?
You can, but mini ones are better for snacks and kids lunchboxes. Full-sized peppers are better suited for baking or meal-sized stuffed capsicums.
What age are these suitable for?
These are great for toddlers up to teens. Just make sure they’re cut appropriately for younger kids.
These mini sweet capsicum boats are the kind of vegan snack that disappears fast — and I don’t mean into the compost bin. They're crunchy, creamy, customisable, and genuinely fun to eat.
Whether you're looking for a quick easy kids lunchbox filler, a healthy after-school snack, or a way to use up those peppers sitting in the fridge, this recipe has got your back.
INGREDIENTS
Mini Sweet Capsicum Boats with Avocado Mash
6–8 mini sweet capsicums (or sweet mini peppers)
1 ripe avocado
Juice of ½ lemon
Pinch of salt
Optional: nutritional yeast, garlic powder or hemp seeds for extra flavour
METHOD
Slice the mini capsicums in half and remove the seeds.
In a bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
Spoon the avocado mash into each capsicum half.
Optional: sprinkle with your favourite toppings – try hemp seeds, nutritional yeast etc.
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