Sometimes it’s really hard to squeeze in a healthy lunch when you’re run off your feet. Especially if you’re working away from home.
With so many of us on the go, reaching for pre-packaged options that are convenient but not necessarily good for our health can be tempting.
So I thought I’ll tempt you with the idea of making your own easy options, you can make these the night before, and my suggested meals sit very nicely in the fridge until the next day.
For instance:
Mason Jar Salads
Mason jar salads are a great way to prep and have a healthy lunch ready when needed. All you need is a mason jar (or a lunch box) and some fresh ingredients.
Start by packing your salad in layers—dressing at the bottom, followed by hardier vegetables such as carrots or broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers and celery, then maybe a small layer of cooked whole grains, add beans, tofu or felafels followed by greens.
You can even have a layer of fresh fruit in there, like melons or mango.
When you’re ready to eat it, turn the jar over into a bowl and enjoy. Or if you took a lunch box, just mix it all up and you’re ready to go. If away from home, don’t forget the cutlery 😉
Easy Lunch Boxes
This is another easy and delicious way to ensure you get plenty of nutrition while out of the home. Or even at home. Having something pre-prepared saves so much time the next day.
With a few simple ingredients, you can create a balanced lunch that will fuel you through the day.
Although I have news for the lady in the photo: that apple will definitely NOT fit in there. But otherwise, the sky’s the limit when it comes to what type of food you want in that box – get creative and add an array of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, leftovers, hummus, or any other nutritious items.
Come lunchtime the next day, all that’s left to do is grab and go.
Wraps
Start by choosing your favourite type of wrap. Then fill them with whatever ingredients you like—spread with hummus, add lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers; marinated crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Add a sprinkle of your favourite spices and it’s done. Easy to make and easy to eat. No cutlery required.
(I love wraps. Just watch the calories of those giant ones that are around 200 calories or more)
A salad wrap with tofu
Sushi Bowls
Deconstructed Sushis or sushi bowls are another great option. It does need a bit of prep beforehand.
But you can make up a batch of three for the next few days. All you need is some cooked brown rice or quinoa, some nori sheets cut into strips, avocado slices, edamame beans, sesame seeds and soy sauce or tamari for added flavour and of course some tofu.
Or anything else you wish to add 🙂
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and enjoy.
As you can see, eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated, even if you’re always on the go.
With these quick and easy options above, you can have a delicious lunch ready in no time.