On the Plane

Now that we air travelers are limited to the barest necessities on planes, let's take control of the one element of pleasure still afforded to us in airline travel: food.

We're no longer compelled to eat airline food out of guilt -- the belt-tightening of the airlines has left us in charge of our food destinies. If your family is trapped on a flight for the holidays, what better way to spend time than kicking back (well, okay, shifting slightly) and enjoying some tasty, homemade food? It's possible, with a little foresight and planning.

These travel foods are all easy to get out of the way before the last-minute flurry of trip preparation, and they're relatively neat to eat in close quarters. I've given two main dishes here in case you have a really long flight and/or a large family that would like a bit of choice. Make as much or little as you need.

The only downside to traveling with your own food is the pitiful, longing stares you'll get from seat mates. Be strong!

• Trail Mix
• Herb-Baked Olives
• Fruit and Broccoli Salad
• Cobb Salad Wrap
• Roast Beef and Red Pepper Sandwiches
• Crispy Teton Treats

 

Each handful of this sweet-and-salty combination of ranch-flavored crackers, shoestring potatoes, peanuts, and chocolate-covered raisins delivers crunch, but not a lot of crumbs.

View Trail Mix recipe

This little Mediterranean nibbler is practically gourmet. Storing it in an airtight container makes it perfect for in-flight munching.

View Herb-Baked Olives recipe

One forkful of this fresh, nutritious salad and you'll never go back to stale airplane pretzels again. With only five ingredients, it's easy to mix up and take along with you.

View Fruit and Broccoli Salad recipe

A homemade entree on a plane? Yes, it's possible with these flavorful chicken, tomato, and bacon wraps that will please passengers of all ages.

View Cobb Salad Wrap recipe

 

Bite into a sophisticated sandwich during your next flight. Stuff Boboli or focaccia with roast beef, red peppers, and Monterey Jack cheese for an in-flight meal that's out of this world.

View Roast Beef and Red Pepper Sandwiches recipe

 

Dessert is a must no matter your elevation, and these crispy chocolate-covered treats are a no-mess, big-flavor choice.

View Crispy Teton Treats recipe