While breakfast and dinner are considered the most important meals of the day, lunch should not be disregarded and skipped. Lunch provides us with an opportunity to slow down, unwind, and receive the energy to get through the day, so we don’t feel light-headed and exhausted easily. Lunch plays a crucial role in our overall nutrition as well. However, you may find it difficult to prepare lunch, do not have the time to do so, or are unsure of what dishes to create. In that case, we have provided a list of lunch ideas for you that are tasty, healthy, and easy to make.
Salads
Before you irk at the idea of salads, hear us out. Gone are the days that salads were only filled with lettuce and tomatoes. Now, salads can be of any combination and include all sorts of nutritional elements. For a good source of fiber and protein, you can add quinoa, which is a much better alternative than rice as it contains fewer carbohydrates and calories. Accompany it with fresh salmon and tuna, spinach and kale, or even fruits like berries and apples. With so many options to play around with, you can explore and find a salad combination that suits your tastes.
Sandwiches and Wraps
The best thing about sandwiches and wraps is how easy it is to make and eat them. Due to their fuss-free nature, sandwiches are perfect when you are in a rush and simply need a meal that requires no utensils. Of course, sandwiches and wraps filled with cold cuts and poultry can be unhealthy as they are high in calories, sodium, and fat. This is why we recommend replacing white bread with high-fiber ones and piling more vegetables. Adding healthy fats foods such as avocado, fatty fish, and natural cheeses is also great as they help decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Chicken
When it comes to chicken, the healthiest and leanest cut would be the breast. Chicken breast is loaded with protein but low in calories, making it suitable for loved ones looking to lose weight or achieve a more well-rounded diet. What’s more, chicken is incredibly easy to prepare and can be included in a wide variety of dishes. Some chicken-based lunches we prefer chicken noodle soup, baked or grilled chicken, and chicken salad. There are so many recipes out there made with chicken, so there’s definitely a dish you will come to enjoy.
Sushi
We save the best for last. This Japanese dish is incredibly healthy yet delicious at the same time. If you are getting tired of salads or sandwiches for lunch, try recommending them sushi. Whether it’s nigiri sushi or maki rolls, sushi is a wonderful brain food that boosts memory retention, alongside being rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and proteins. Fishes such as salmon and tuna are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which lowers blood sugar levels, improves eye health, and even reduces the risk of depression and anxiety.
