This kiddie snack can be so much more than a lunchbox staple. Check out these clever hacks using lower lower-fat, part-skim mozzarella string cheese sticks.

1: “Fried” Mozzarella
Lighten up this classic comfort food by baking instead of frying. Chill cheese sticks ahead of time to prevent over-melting in the oven.

Recipe: Crisp Mozzarella Sticks

2: Kebabs
Chopped string cheese is the perfect size and texture to thread on sticks along with other favorites like fresh vegetables and lean protein.

Recipe: Chicken Kebabs with Greek Yogurt Pesto Dipping Sauce

3: Pizza Rolls
Cut each piece of string cheese into thirds. Wrap each piece in a strip of puff pastry along with your favorite pizza toppings and bake until golden. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

4: Stuffed Meatballs and Burgers
Tuck cut cut-up pieces of string cheese into meatballs or turkey burgers before cooking and get a surprise bite of cheesy goodness.

5: Roll Ups
Whether the wrapper is a flour tortilla or a slice of turkey, the size and shape of string cheese lends itself perfectly to being rolled up. Add veggies and fresh herbs for an even more satisfying snack.

Recipe: Turkey Roll-Ups

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition.