A healthier lunch

I don't go out for lunch. I'm not trying to sound like I'm healthier-than-thou, I just don't. Of course, a lot of it has to do with only having 20 minutes for lunch, my lunch time being at 10:40, and working in an area where my choices are McDonald's, Jack in the Box, or a taco truck (not one of the cool trendy ones, either). If I worked in an environment where I could go out for lunch then I probably would (although I'd be 20 lbs heavier and a lot broker).

I sometimes find myself bringing a frozen entree for lunch if I don't have leftovers. Since I only get Amy's or Cedar Lane, this usually costs about $5 per entree, which is a little much, especially since I'm always hungry afterwards. Not to mention they are still high in sodium.

Lately I have been making satisfying and healthy lunches that are cheaper than frozen entrees and more nutritious than going out. Plus it only takes 20 min to prepare for a whole week of lunches- thats less time than it takes to microwave a weeks worth of frozen meals!

Have you ever cooked quinoa? It is an ancient South American seed that tastes similar to couscous. It is also very high in protein and fiber, low in fat and calories. I find it in bulk at krogers, heb, or whole foods.

For every cup of quinoa you cook, boil in 2 cups of water or low sodium veggie stock. I like to make 2 cups for a weeks worth of meals..Once your quinoa has cooked, just add your favorite veggies and some Siracha or lemon/ lime.

My fav concoctions:
- mix with kale, feta, and sun dried tomatoes. You can even add some egg to make it stick and cook quinoa patties in the oven.
- make an Asian one with fried egg, broccoli, carrots, cabbage, green onions, ginger, low sodium soy sauce and Siracha.
- make a Greek one with feta, olives, tomato, spinach, red onion, cucumber, and lemons
-make a tex mex with jalapeños, lime, cilantro, bell peppers, and carrots.

I love the way I feel after eating this- full yet still flat-stomached ( you know those foods that make you feel 3 months pregnant when you're not? This def isn't one of them).

Any other great lunch meals that are healthy, high in veggies, yet satisfying?