NOW THAT MY KIDS ARE grown, flown, and finding jobs, I’m proud to say they’ve learned the importance of being budget-minded and packing a healthy lunch.
As regular HLN readers are aware, over the years I’ve written many times on topics related to my kids and their food choices/eating habits, such as preschool snack ideas, school lunch packing made easy, nutrition for sports, eating on a budget in college, how to eat healthy in the dorm cafeteria, etc.
Proud momma moment here: Both of my kids have graduated college and live away in their own apartments and have nice jobs. I am also happy that they still call me for meal ideas and shopping tips, that they found an ALDI in their area where prices are so much more reasonable, and that they still pack their lunches.
But let’s face it, sometimes eating the same meat-and-cheese sandwich, chips, apple, and water can get a little boring. Kids tend to like routine and food jags as we call them. However, adults tend to have tastes that are more discerning, so while you’re packing for the kiddos, you can pack something delicious for yourself.
Here are some delicious and nutritious lunch ideas that adults with a somewhat more refined palate can pack for work: Start with a fun, sturdy, thermal-insulated lunch box or bag. If you pack perishable items, always include an ice pack to keep them cool until it’s time to eat. Look for reusable plastic or glass lunch containers that are small, boxy, and stackable, and be sure to wash your lunch bag, containers, and utensils, with hot, soapy water every day.
Next, consider what you like and want to eat for lunch. Sandwiches are easy and simple, but you can make them a lot more interesting by using different breads, such as whole-grain pita, mini bagels, tortillas, Naan bread, or even lettuce for lettuce warps. Try a variety of spreads, like mustard salsa, hummus, tzatziki, or pesto mayonnaise. Choose less-processed meats, for example leftover meat from the night before, packets of tuna or salmon, bean spreads, or egg fillings.
Leftovers tend to get a bad rap, but you should learn to love them because they are great for packing a tasty lunch in a hurry. If you made stir fry the night before, throw it in! You can also pack soups, salads, or chili, and pasta dishes can be easy to heat up in a hurry.
Don’t forget to account for healthy snacks, which will help you fend off that 3:00 p.m. craving for a Snickers and Coca Cola sugar rush. Consider packing (or keeping refrigerated at work) items such as light tuna, fruit cups, trail mix, granola, cereal—high fiber of course, yogurt, or crackers/ breadsticks you can enjoy with peanut butter, hummus, or cheese.
Here’s another pro tip to ensure you have healthy flavorful foods to pack for work lunches: Cook in bulk on weekends. Make a large sheet pan of chicken, beef, pork, or tofu, add all your favorite veggies, and bake. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or quinoa. Divide it into smaller containers for the work week. You can do the same for soup or chili—make a large pot on Sunday and divide it into smaller containers that are quick and easy to grab.
As we’re all aware, going out for lunch is getting a bit pricey these days, so to help resist the temptation to overspend during the work week, pack lunches similar to what you would get from a fast, casual restaurant.
You can also build your own bowls, bento boxes, or burritos—you’ll find plenty of recipes online and on social media. Use lettuce, rice, or quinoa as a base, and then add veggie toppings, or serve cold shrimp and edamame over rice for a meal with an Asian flare.
Or, try this recipe for “Chicken Goop” as seen on TikTok: 2 chicken breasts, 1 can corn, 1 can black beans, 1 cup rice, 2 packets taco seasoning, chunky salsa, and chicken broth. Mix and cook in a crock pot or instant pot. This mixture can go into burritos, over lettuce, or over nachos.
While you’re planning your lunches for the week, don’t forget to include something to drink! Staying properly hydrated will help you stay refreshed and alert throughout the day. Keep a reusable bottle at work so you can sip fresh water. Add cucumber, lemon, or berries for a little flavor.
Packing your lunch for work is not only a budget-friendly habit, but also a great way to fuel your workday the healthy way. If time is tight in the morning, try making your lunch the night before and keeping it in the refrigerator. (Hint: keep your car keys on top of the fridge so you don’t forget your lunch!) Or better yet, prep a week’s worth of satisfying, nutritious lunches ahead of time. This will make your life easier even if you work remotely at home. With a little planning, you can pack quick and easy lunches sure to please. So, whether you’re packing a loaded, delicious salad or pesto turkey pinwheels, plan and enjoy your lunch break!
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