What we put into our bodies has a huge impact on how we feel. But while I know I should have something healthy for lunch when I’m working, it is so much easier to order takeout or run out and buy something less-than-ideal.
A lot of the tension between knowing what we should do and what we actually do comes down to time. Preparing healthy meals takes time, and finding recipies for healthy meals takes even longer!
To help you satisfy your hunger while giving your body and mind the nurtients they need to perform their best, I’ve put together three packable lunch recipies. If you want more, just shoot me an email and I’ll send you some additional options.
Recipe 1: Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for dressing
Instructions:
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Allow it to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.
- Pack in a lunch container and refrigerate until lunchtime.
Recipe 2: Turkey and Avocado Wrap
Ingredients:
- Whole-grain tortillas
- Turkey slices
- Avocado, sliced
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato, sliced
- Hummus
- Mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Lay out a whole-grain tortilla and spread a thin layer of hummus and mustard.
- Layer turkey slices, avocado, lettuce, and tomato on the tortilla.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roll up the tortilla tightly, cut in half, and secure with toothpicks or wrap with parchment paper.
- Pack in a lunch container and refrigerate until lunch.
Recipe 3: Mason Jar Salad
Ingredients (layered in a mason jar, or container of your choice):
- Bottom layer: Salad dressing
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, diced
- Carrots, shredded
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein
- Mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or your choice)
- Nuts or seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by pouring your favorite salad dressing into the bottom of the mason jar.
- Layer the ingredients in the order listed, starting with cherry tomatoes and ending with the salad greens on top.
- Seal the jar and refrigerate until lunchtime.
- When ready to eat, shake the jar to distribute the dressing evenly, pour into a bowl, and enjoy your fresh and crisp salad.
Hopefully, these fast and healthy packable lunch recipies will help you fuel yourself in a way you feel good about!
