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Fresh Bento Box Lunch Ideas

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Colorful and balanced bento box lunches featuring a variety of proteins, veggies, carbs, and extras for quick, easy, and nutritious meals perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • Cooked chicken breast, sliced or cubed (about 6-7 oz)
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Edamame pods, shelled
  • Smoked salmon slices
  • Baby carrots
  • Cucumber ribbons or slices
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Steamed broccoli florets
  • Shredded purple cabbage
  • Brown rice or quinoa (about 1 cup dry to yield 3 cups cooked)
  • Mini whole wheat pita pockets
  • Rice crackers or seaweed snacks
  • Hummus or guacamole
  • Fresh fruit like grapes, sliced apples, or berries
  • Pickled ginger or kimchi
  • Sesame seeds or chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook your protein of choice: season chicken breast lightly with salt and pepper, then grill or sauté for about 6-7 minutes per side. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Hard-boil eggs for 10 minutes, then cool in ice water before peeling.
  2. Cook brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions (20-25 minutes). Use about 1 cup dry to yield approximately 3 cups cooked. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
  3. Rinse all fresh produce thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into ribbons or rounds, halve cherry tomatoes, and shred cabbage finely. Steam broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Cool on a tray.
  4. Assemble the bento box: place grains in one compartment, add protein next to it, leaving space for veggies and dips. Fill other compartments with colorful veggies, fruit, and pickled items. Use silicone cups to hold hummus or guacamole. Sprinkle sesame seeds or herbs last.
  5. Close the bento box securely and store in the refrigerator if not eating immediately. Consume within 4-6 hours for best freshness.

Notes

Use silicone cups to keep dips separate and avoid sogginess. Cook proteins and grains the night before to save time. Pat veggies dry if they start to weep. Keep knife skills sharp for uniform cuts. Customize proteins and dips for dietary needs and preferences.

Nutrition

Keywords: bento box, lunch ideas, healthy lunch, easy recipes, balanced meals, quick lunch, meal prep, gluten-free, vegetarian options

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/fresh-bento-box-lunch-ideas-5-easy-recipes-for-balanced-meals/