Brown bagging lunch to work is not only budget-friendly; it also helps you make healthier food choices. And while eating homemade lunches may seem boring and less appetizing, there are several ways to spice up your meals to make them more flavorful. Try one of these easy-to-prepare lunches:
Edamame Salad (Phase 1)
This recipe is very satisfying, thanks to protein- and fiber-rich edamame. When paired with grilled salmon, this dish becomes an impressive meal that's very easy to make.
Shrimp Stir-Fry (Phase 1)
Fresh ginger and garlic, plus a vibrant mixture of vegetables and tender shrimp (packed with heart-healthy omega-3s), give this stir-fry big flavor and color.
Warm Beef Salad (Phase 1)
Smoky grilled beef, crisp greens, and a zesty lemon dressing make up this satisfying salad. Purchasing washed, packaged salad greens will help keep the prep time quick.
Vegetarian Chili With Avocado Salsa (Phase 1)
This flavor-packed chili features fiber and protein, rich black beans, and avocados, which contain healthy monounsaturated fat.
Chipotle-Rubbed Steak Wraps (Phase 2)
Chipotle chiles in adobo (a sauce made from pureed chiles, vinegar, and spices) flavor the steak in this spicy wrap.
Barley Risotto With Spinach and Parmesan (Phase 2)
This warm and wonderful dish will help fill you up and boost your fiber intake.
Grilled Tomato, Arugula, and Feta Cheese Pizza (Phase 2)
Lovers of thin-crust pizza will like this tortilla version. You’ll love the smoky flavor that you get from using the grill rather than the oven.
Greens, Citrus, and Chicken Salad (Phase 2)
Grapefruit brings a refreshing taste, a pretty look, and a healthy dose of vitamin C and fiber to this salad.
Provolone Chicken Melts (Phase 2)
These cheesy open-faced sandwiches are so gooey you'll want to eat them with a knife and fork. You can use grilled, baked, or poached chicken instead of pan-cooked, if you prefer.
Whole-Wheat Pizza Margherita (Phase 2)
Sometimes nothing satisfies like a slice of cheesy pizza. This one's made with a whole-wheat crust and part-skim mozzarella, so it's ideal for South Beach Dieters.
Peppery Zucchini Pasta (Phase 2)
When zucchini and summer squash fill the garden, we turn to this flavorful pasta dish, which can easily be doubled or tripled for a big outdoor gathering. In place of basil, try fresh cilantro, mint, regular chives, or garlic chives.