Healthy bento box lunch ideas for the new year
WHAT FOODS ARE BEST IN A BENTO BOX?
When assembling your bento boxes, it’s important to include a variety of foods that cover different food groups. Focus on lean proteins, colorful vegetables, whole grains, fruits and healthy fats. Pure Flavor’s assortment of greenhouse grown fruits & veggies not only adds vibrant colors but also a plethora of vitamins and nutrients. They are a fantastic addition to any bento box!
Protein: Lean protein sources like grilled chicken, turkey, tofu, tuna, Greek yogurt or boiled eggs offer the necessary building blocks for sustained energy.
Vegetables: Colorful veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers and sugar snap peas require minimal prep and provide essential vitamins, minerals and fiber.
Whole Grains: Choose whole grain options like whole wheat crackers, whole wheat pita bread, quinoa, brown rice or whole wheat pasta to provide complex carbohydrates that keep you full and energized.
Fruits: Add a touch of sweetness with fresh fruits like berries, apple slices, or orange segments for a nutrient boost.
Healthy Fats: Nuts, seeds, nut butter and guacamole are great sources of healthy fats that contribute to heart health and help keep us full.
INCORPORATING PURE FLAVOR VEGGIES –
Let’s talk about how you can easily incorporate Pure Flavor’s vibrant veggies into your bento boxes:
Mini Cucumbers: These crunchy delights are not only hydrating but also low in calories. Slice them into sticks or rounds for easy dipping in hummus or Greek yogurt dip.
Uno Bites Nano Cucumbers: Their small size makes them perfect for snacking. Throw in a handful for a refreshing crunch.
Juno Bites Red Grape Tomatoes: Bursting with flavor, these tomatoes are a colorful addition to any bento box. They’re rich in antioxidants and vitamins too!
Oriana Orange Grape Tomatoes: These tomatoes not only add a pop of color but also a boost of vitamin A and iron. They offer a slightly tangy sweetness- making them great for snacking!
Aurora Bites Mini Sweet Peppers: With their vibrant colors and naturally sweet taste, these mini peppers are a kid-friendly addition that provides an extra boost of vitamin C.
PLAN AND PREP FOR A STRESS-FREE MORNING –
One of the main advantages of bento box meal prep is the ability to plan and prepare ahead of time. Spend a little time over the weekend chopping vegetables, preparing your lean protein and cooking whole grains. When you wake up on a busy weekday morning, you’ll have all the ingredients ready to assemble a balanced meal in no time.
Smart Ingredient Storing: After washing and chopping your veggies, store them in airtight containers or resealable bags. This not only keeps them fresh but also saves you precious minutes during the week.
Batch Cook Grains: Cook a larger batch of whole grains like quinoa, brown rice or couscous over the weekend. Portion them into individual servings and refrigerate or freeze them. This way, you can simply reheat and add them to your bento box.
Protein Power: Whether it’s chicken, tofu, seafood or beans, consider marinating and cooking your protein ahead of time. This not only infuses flavor but also speeds up cooking time during busy weeks.
Sauce It Up: Pre-make your favorite sauces, dressings, or dips and store them in small, leak-proof containers. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your meals and snacks!
Double-Up Dinner: When preparing dinner, consider making extra portions that can easily be repurposed into bento box components. For instance, roasted vegetables, cooked chicken or leftover stir-fry can find a new home in your lunchtime bento.
Mind the Order: When assembling your bento box, think about the order in which you place ingredients. Keep wet ingredients away from dry ones to prevent sogginess. Layering protein on top of grains and placing delicate items like tomatoes on top can help maintain freshness.
Ice Packs and Insulation: If you’re including perishable items like yogurt, meat or cheese, consider using a small ice pack and a well-insulated lunch bag to ensure food safety and freshness.
CAN BENTO BOXES BE MADE THE NIGHT BEFORE?
Absolutely! The beauty of bento box meal prep is that you can definitely prepare them the night before. In fact, prepping the components ahead of time can make your mornings less hectic.
Get Creative and Have Fun!
Bento box meal prep allows you to get creative with your meal combinations. Play with different textures, colors, and flavors to keep things interesting. Involve your children in the process – they’ll love helping assemble their own bento boxes.
EASY, HEALTHY BENTO BOX LUNCH IDEAS –
Mediterranean Bento Box
- Cucumber Feta Salad
- Oronai Sweet Charentais Melons
- Hummus
- Whole Wheat Pita Triangles
Asian Bento Box
- Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Alonna Canary Melons
- Brown Rice or Quinoa
- Edamame
“Snack” Bento Box
- Mini Caprese Skewers
- Sweet Blooms Strawberries
- Shaved Turkey
- Whole Wheat Crackers
Bento boxes are a fantastic way to ensure your family’s meals are balanced, nutritious and tasty! By following these simple steps, you’ll not only elevate the nutritional value of your meals but also make busy mornings smoother.
