Lunch Bowls

What do you eat for lunch? I eat leftovers if they are available because they are fast and convenient. But on the days when we don't have leftovers or I just want something a little different, I love to put together a lunch bowl!

I've made quite a few variations of the lunch bowl, but it always has the same basic food groups. I start with some type of grain, and add in protein, healthy fats, vegetables, and a dressing. There are so many different possibilities for flavor combinations! I love to mix together a big batch at the beginning of the week because the flavor only gets better as the week goes on. Here are some ideas for ingredients:

Grains: Quinoa, rice, orzo, couscous, pasta etc.
Proteins: Chicken, Beans, Chickpeas, leftover steak, eggs, taco meat, etc.
Healthy Fats: Avocado, hummus, any type of cheese, etc.
Vegetables: Any veggies!
Dressing: Any combo of olive oil and an acid such as vinegar or lemon/lime

Here are a few combinations I have tried and loved:

Brown rice, leftover taco meat, black beans, corn, shredded cheddar, avocado, salsa or olive oil and lime juice (Like a Chipotle burrito bowl!)

Couscous, chickpeas, feta, cucumber, tomato, mint

Pasta, diced pepperoni, bell peppers, tomatoes, spinach, parmesan, oregano, basil, olive oil (Adam used to love taking this in his lunch!)

Spaghetti noodles, diced chicken breast, shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, green onions, peanuts, sesame seeds, olive oil and soy sauce (or stir in a little peanut butter!)

Today I made a caprese salad using red quinoa, chickpeas, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper. It was delicious and filling. For just 10 minutes spent in the kitchen, I now have lunch for the next 3 or 4 days!