Packing Nutritious Vegan Lunches for Work
Healthy Meals That Drive Away Late Afternoon Hunger
Jun 2, 2009
It's a daily struggle, but it doesn't have to be. Trying to find filling and healthy foods that are easily packed into lunch boxes and bags can become one of the easiest of before bed or before work chores with some simple planning and the right tools.
Lunch Boxes for Vegans
Having the right lunch box to fit just the right amount of food is crucial. From run-of-the-mill plastic lunch bags to nifty and adorable Bento Boxes, there are many different varieties to choose from. Here are a few things to remember when shopping for the perfect lunch box:
- Simple lunches require simple packaging; there is no need for removable compartments with lids, and shifting levels if all you want is a sandwich and some fresh veggies. However, if elaborate lunches are more your style, lunch boxes with compartments and lids may be just the thing needed.
- Use Reusable sandwich bags. There are many styles and shapes out there!
- Watch out for soft, vinyl lunchboxes as they have shown to harbor unsafe levels of lead.
Healthy Choices for Vegan Lunches
While working long days in an office, the urge to snack is always presently and almost always insatiable. However, some ways to fend off this post lunch snacking for hunger (or boredom) include:
- Eat lunches that fill you up- high protein foods, such as beans and tofu are good choices.
- Crunchy foods- bring along a small container of celery or carrots for a crunchy snack that has to be chewed. Snacks that are crunchy and take longer to chew will fend off hunger.
- Fruit- for afternoon slumps, try an apple with peanut butter. Or maybe a small container of berries for a pop-able treat.
- Continual craving coffee in the afternoon? Try some herbal tea sweetened lightly with agave nectar instead.
Packing and Making Nutritious Vegan Lunches
Some of the best in-office lunches will be well-rounded, with lots of protein, whole grains, and lots of veggies. Not everyone is equipped with a microwave, so leftovers are not always an option. Here are two good meals to try in the microwave, followed by two that can be eaten without being re-heated.
- Make a big stir fry using whatever veggies are available. Include at least three different vegetables, such as broccoli, snap peas, and corn. Throw in some cubed tofu for protein. Bring some pre-cooked brown rice along with the stir-fry, and a small container of low sodium soy sauce (or other preferred sauce).
- Next time a chili or big pot of soup is made, save some for lunches. Serve with whole wheat pasta for a twist and bring along a good sized salad.
- Grab some whole wheat pitas and spread with some good quality hummus. Fill the pita with raw spinach, red onions, and tomatoes for a fresh and tasty sandwich alternative. Bring along some baby carrots with this wrap and just enough goddess dressing to dunk them in.
- Make a cold bean, pasta, and veggie salad. Use a couple of cans of beans, a cup or two of pasta, and some fresh veggies to add color and crunch. A tasty combo would be navy beans, pinto beans, penne pasta, broccoli florets, shredded carrots, and raw zucchini. Drizzle with some vegan dressing or a little red wine vinegar.
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