Planning lunch is no joke!

We know there’s a lot of pressure around lunches. Social media circulates cutsie cut sandwiches and bento boxes that look like they fell from the heavens.

BUT...We have to share a secret with you.

Tasty doesn’t have to be complicated!

As Chefs, we basically wake up thinking about what we’re going to eat that day (and maybe the next day), but it’s really not a stressor. We know the best things are made with love and simple nibbles can be satisfying.

With back to school banging down the door we’re sharing some easy ideas to keep you and your family fed and ready to roll.

Overnight Oats

They’re not just for breakfast any more! Make a batch on Sunday with only some simple mixing required then tuck into cups and toss in the fridge. In the morning, plop some berries and crunchies (nuts/granola) and you’re good to go!

Hummus Cups

Tuck in with cut veggies or ,for the truly busy, buy persian cukes, cherry tomatoes, baby carrots to cut out the work. If your little one’s school is sesame free there are brands that are made without tahini.

Guacamole Cups

Pack with a quinoa or chickpea tortilla chip to give the “my parent is the fun parent” lunch vibes with an extra protein kicker. Delish!

Store-bought tzatziki or hummus

They have so many varieties! Use this for fun variation as a base for a wrap or as a “dip for lunch” meal with veggies & baked chips.

Portioned cheeses

Cheese sticks, laughing cow wedges and babybels are all fun and holdable. As an added bonus they go with everything.

That’s a wrap (or quesadilla!)

Flour tortillas or wraps are great to have in the fridge. Start with a smear of cream cheese, hummus, or even plain greek yogurt - add veggies, cheese, sliced meat or shredded leftovers (rotisserie chicken or honey-ham).

Throw some cheese on a tortilla and put it in the toaster oven while you’re in your morning routine, fold in half and let it cool before wrapping. I like to pack it with ranchero-dip (equal parts salsa & Greek yogurt) for added noms and protein.

Last but not least!

The dressing that does it all!

Sesame-Soy Dressing!

Combine 1/4 c soy sauce, 2 T sesame oil, 1/4 c rice vinegar, 1/4 c neutral oil, 1 1/2 T honey - put it in a jar and shake vigorously to combine. This will last for weeks in the fridge and give you lots of options!

Version 1

Toss leftover plain pasta with dressing, frozen peas (don’t even thaw them!), a grated carrot and some protein and wrap up after dinner for lunch the next day - leftover chicken, pork, tofu are all great ideas or open a can of tuna and drain well.

Version 2

Mix hearty veggies (like bell peppers) lightly, and add to your favorite wrap for an Asian kick!

Version 3

Combine with canned, drained tuna for a mayo-free salad that will be great with lunch - bonus points for serving with rice crackers instead of salad greens or on bread.

Now go forth and conquer those lunches!

If you’re in need of a helping hand for packing and delivering delicious lunch time joy, count us in.

We’re happy to help you brainstorm ways to bring life back to lunches or we can take the reins and you can indulge in your own tasty lunch!