Written by: Dr. Frannie Koe, MD
Edited by: Breanne Hughes
The following items are perfect for a lunch box, but unlike the previous section of more “convenient” foods, these require some preparation, or at the very least, need to be purchased fresh.
Cheese:
Cheese is a versatile food to take in a lunch. There are so many kinds of cheese. However, I don’t recommend cheese that comes already shredded, as it has powders and chemicals on it to keep the pieces separate. You also must be careful not to eat too much cheese, because it can keep us from having healthy bathroom habits! But moderate amounts of cheese can be a wonderful source of protein and healthy fats in our lunches.
Eggs:
Eggs are delicious and versatile in lunch as well. You can add them to salmon and tuna salad or just egg salad alone. You could use any of these salads to stuff celery, lettuce, collard and kale leaves. The leaves can take the place of bread and add to the nutrition of the wrap. Deviled eggs are very popular with many people. Hard-boiled eggs are also easy to take with hot sauce, salt and pepper, or other seasonings on top.
Raw Vegetables:
Baby carrots and raw veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes or other small tomatoes, yellow squash and zucchini, or celery are a great way to increase your vegetable intake.
Veggies are good on their own, but are even better with dips. At Agroshare, want to make sure you have dip options that are portable, keep well, are easy to make in large batches, and are good for you! For example, nut butters are tasty dips for some vegetables, and make a great filling for celery sticks. Other dipping ideas include hummus, mayo, ranch dressing made from homemade mayo, sour cream or yogurt-based dips, cheese dips, and dips made with healthy cream. For more recipe inspiration, check out our Condiments page or click on the links below.
Hummus:
Pimento Cheese:
Mayonnaise:
