These days it’s not just the kids getting a lunch packed in the mornings, there are several great reasons why grown-ups might want to pack a lunch for themselves during the work week too. When you pack your lunch, you know you’re bringing a healthy meal for yourself. So, here are some tips for packing a brown bag lunch that will keep your taste-buds tantalized!
- Design an upscale sandwich. Why settle for your usual sandwich when you can add interesting ingredients? Here are some examples: Roast turkey, provolone cheese,avocado on whole grain bread spread with olive tapenade (available at Trader Joe’s). Or grilled eggplant and fresh mozzarella drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette, topped with fresh basil leaves and served on whole grain bread.
- Include the 3 key components. A special sandwich or lunch entree includes these 3 components; Nutrient-rich side dishes such as fruits, vegetables or salad and something sweet or crunchy-like nuts, trail mix, or yogurt. All will make for a delicious and satisfying lunch.
- It’s a wrap! Buy some whole grain flour tortillas and try this combination: top a whole grain tortilla with some light Caesar dressing, sliced skinless chicken breast, parmesan cheese, tomatoes and lettuce.
- It’s all in the spread. Want to turn your sandwich into a high flavor delight? Try these spreads: olive tapenade; sundried tomato pesto; basil pesto, roasted red pepper hummas; mango peach salsa, or mango chutney.
- Make it a lunch salad. Do you have leftover pasta, potatoes, or tabbouleh? Stir in some leftover lean meat, reduced fat cheese and or veggies and you’ve got lunch!
What are some of your favorite brown bag lunches?
