Lunch in 5 Minutes or Less

Lately I've figured out a few 5 minute meals that are improving my relationship with lunch (which I'll admit is usually pretty bad). I’ve noticed when I take a few minutes (and I mean very few) to make something healthy and with staying power, I'm less likely to be stuffing tortilla chips down my throat at 4 pm. If you're a fellow lunch hater, I hope these help you too.

These recipes are for one serving. Multiply accordingly.

 

Toast with Ricotta, Radishes, and Cucumber
1 slice whole grain bread
2 tablespoons ricotta
2 radishes, thinly sliced
1/4 of an English cucumber, thinly sliced
A few cilantro leaves (or whatever herb you have in the fridge)
Salt and pepper

Toast bread, spread with ricotta, layer on veggies, and sprinkle with cilantro, salt, and pepper. (Double if feeling hungry.)



Eggs and Arugula
3-4 cups arugula
1-2 eggs
2 tablespoons grated parmesan
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper

Place arugula on a plate. Fry egg in a little olive oil over medium high heat until whites are set but yolk is still runny, 3-4 minutes. Put eggs on the arugula and sprinkle with parmesan. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.

 

Brown Rice with Black Beans and Avocado
1 cup microwavable brown rice*
1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
½ avocado, diced
Olive oil
Lime juice
Salt and pepper
Grated cheese (optional)
Hot sauce (optional)

Microwave rice and put in a bowl. Add the beans and avocado. Drizzle with olive oil and a healthy squeeze of lime juice. Season with salt and pepper. Add cheese and hot sauce if you want to.

* Trader Joe’s microwavable brown rice is my lunchtime bestie. Toss it in the microwave and 3 minutes later you have perfect brown rice. I like it on its own with a little olive oil, parmesan, and salt and pepper, but it’s also a great vehicle for other ingredients.

• Add garbanzo beans, sliced cucumber, chopped mint, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Sauté green onions (and any other veggies) in a little sesame oil. Add rice and a splash of soy sauce. Drizzle with sriracha.
• Mix with leftover chicken or roasted veggies.
• Sauté a few handfuls of spinach in olive oil. Add to rice, along with grated parmesan.