Lunch Bowls!
Clients ask me all the time, “what should I eat for lunch?” I have found that if it isn’t easy to throw together, they won’t do it no matter how healthy it is! This is why I love lunch bowls! I often eat these myself using a variety of vegetables and leftovers that are already prepared in my refrigerator. Below are 4 different options and ideas to create your perfect lunch! You can follow the chart horizontally to stick with similar flavors, or you can mix and match for a little variety! Also, don’t forget to use those leftovers!
The key to a good bowl is to include a variety of food groups. Think about adding a whole grain, some veggies, a protein (maybe legumes, nuts or seeds) and a dressing or a sauce. Don’t forget the dressing because, trust me, it is 100% worth making and adding it to your bowl with the delicious flavors it creates!
Also, notice that all of these ideas are meatless! This goes along with my goals of trying to lean a little more plant-based in many of my meals during the week. I am not a vegan, or even a vegetarian, but rather, I classify myself as a flexitarian. This simply means I am flexible. I do eat some meat and poultry, but I try to incorporate 5-6 meals a week (including lunch and dinner) that are plant-based. Did you know there are many benefits of eating more plants? Benefits include a healthier heart, increased longevity, and decreased risk of cancer.
That said, feel free to add meat, poultry or fish to any of these bowls for a protein boost if you want!
Lunch Bowl Ideas
Grains |
Greens and Veggies |
Legumes |
Nuts, seeds, fats |
Dressing |
|
Mediterranean Bowl |
Bulgar or pasta | Mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots | Black beans or Hummus | Olives, Feta | Simple Mediterranean Dressing |
Mexican Bowl |
Wild or Brown Rice | Bell Peppers, carrots, jalapeno peppers, cilantro, tomatoes, lettuce | Pinto Beans | Avocado, pepitas | Summer Citrus Dressing and/or salsa |
Asian Flavors Bowl |
Quinoa | Zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, cabbage, green onion, cilantro | Edamame | Sesame seeds, | Asian Flavors Dressing |
American Bowl |
Roasted Sweet Potatoes or Gold Potatoes | Roasted cauliflower or broccoli, lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes | Chickpeas or Hummus | Almonds, pecans, or cashews | Simple Balsamic Vinegar Dressing |
