Tired of the same old lunches? Here are some fresh, yet easy-to-make lunch ideas that will make you look forward to noontime again. Kids will like them too!
- Yogurt, fruit and granola or whole grain crackers. You can mix everything together in one bowl for the easiest clean-up or design an elegant platter with a low-fat yogurt dip as the centerpiece and a variety of fresh fruit and crackers around the sides.
- Take advantage of the current trend in wraps. One of my favorite delis serves a delicious combination of veggie burgers, tons of fresh vegetables, roasted peppers, garlic and cheese. Add a flavored olive oil or balsamic vinegar for a splash of taste. You can make wraps yourself at home or buy them on the run.
- A large bowl of pre-mixed salad greens (Mesclun is good), tossed with a dressing made of extra virgin olive oil, minced fresh garlic, balsamic vinegar and reduced fat feta cheese. Add fresh whole grain bread -- perhaps rye or oat bran -- and a piece of fresh fruit and lunch is served!
- Make a big pot of your favorite homemade soup and freeze in microwaveable containers. While the soup reheats, pull out some whole grain crackers and fresh fruit salad. Lunch is ready in minutes. If you don't have time to make your own soup, try one of the heart-healthy canned varieties that go easy on fat and sodium yet are very flavorful.
- Keep lunch simple with hummus, fresh veggies, baked pita or bagel chips and your favorite homemade cookie. Life is too short to avoid sweets forever!
