Easy Summer Lunch

 

Someone from work asked me once what I usually pack for lunch as she was getting tired of sandwiches and soup. I showed her my Bento Box and decided I could do the same stuff now that I'm retired and just put it all on a plate!  (I do bring the Bento Box to the lake with me!).  

Here's a sample of what I normally eat for lunch when I'm not eating some kind of sandwich, salad, or leftovers from dinner. I save soups and stews for the colder months. 

This lunch is easy to prep and  packs a punch for nutrition.

Today I used:

Lemon Garlic Hummus from a company that makes it down in the southern region of New York State (Down by the Finger Lakes if you look at a map).  I use about a large tablespoon or 1/4 c. Hummus is a great plant based protein and also is considered a "good carb", contains iron and Vitamin D. 

Reduced Fat Triscuit Crackers:  These give you fiber, protein and is a healthy carb. 6 of them is considered a serving. They also give you Iron, Potassium.

Cherry Tomatoes: These contain protein, fiber, Vitamins A and C and is considered to be a good carb. 

Cheddar Cheese: a good source of calcium BUT it also contains animal fat (Cholesterol) so I limit the amount; it also is considered to be a good source of protein, Vitamin D, Magnesium. 

Cucumbers: These are European cucumbers and I prefer them as they tend to be less bitter and I like the skins better. They're a good source of fiber, a healthy carb, protein, Vitamins C and K, and Magnesium. 

Sliced Nectarine: is a good source of potassium and beta-carotene, contains protein and fiber but also contains sugar and a little bit of fat. They also contain more Vitamin C, B2, B3,  and K than peaches do. They also contain copper. And...they also contain small amounts of Vitamin A, Iron, Zinc. They're considered to be a good source of sugar vs eating a cookie or brownie. 

This is a filling lunch and I typically pair it with a glass of iced water with orange or lemon slices. 

ENJOY!!