Green Goddess Adult “Lunchable”
Lunch doesn’t have to be drama!
I personally love leftovers for lunch. It simplifies weekly meal planning so I can just focus on dinner ideas. [I keep breakfast foods stocked to rotate between a green protein shake, berry protein oatmeal, or veggie scramble.]
With my leftovers, I often make a healthy ADULT “LUNCHABLE” because it’s such an easy way to get a balanced midday meal! Oh, and it’s pretty darn fun, too!
ANATOMY OF A HEALTHY ADULT LUNCHABLE
A healthy Adult Lunchable has 4 parts:
1) protein (aim for 30 grams)
2) produce
3) smart carb
4) sauce/dip/dressing
GREEN GODDESS LUNCHABLE
You can speed through your fridge and cabinets to make your own version with whatever you have on hand. One of my favorite combos is a Green Goddess Adult Lunchable…
– grilled salmon (leftover or pre-cooked from deli)
– cucumber & radish chunks
– whole grain crackers (like THESE)
– green goddess dressing (like THIS)
CREATIVE OPTIONS FOR YOUR LUNCHABLES
Here are some other ideas to spark your combo creativity…
Protein:
– grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken strips
– tuna salad
– cottage cheese
– air-fryer tofu bites or tofu gyro
Produce:
– cherry tomatoes, bell pepper strips, or baby carrots
– snap peas or celery sticks
– sliced apple or pear for a sweet twist
– pro-tip: Add pickles, olives, or artichoke hearts for a briny kick
Smart Carb:
– whole grain pretzels (like THIS)
– whole grain pita
– brown rice cakes
– sweet potato wedges (leftover or roasted from deli)
Sauce/Dip/Dressing:
– hummus (so many flavors!)
– tzatziki
– guacamole or avocado smash
– yogurt-based caesar or ranch dressing
BENEFITS OF ADULT LUNCHABLES
Adult Lunchables are endlessly customizable and take the stress out of lunch. By focusing on simple, balanced components, you can:
– Avoid a midday energy crash with a balanced mix of nutrients.
– Keep variety in your meals without overthinking.
– Use what you already have at home to reduce food waste.
Remember, lunch doesn’t have to be drama!
If you make a LUNCHABLE this week, email me a picture of it!
xx DJB (dawn@dawnjacksonblatner.com)
Penny Lund says
In an Eating Well article I saw your recommendation for air fryer salmon bites for increasing Omega 3s but couldn’t find recipe there. Can you email it to me please. I love dill pickle tuna salad- I use cottage cheese instead of mayo and add celery and onion as well. Yum!
Thanks!
Penny Lund
DJ Blatner, RDN says
Hey Penny! Your dill pickle tuna salad sounds delish! I love the salmon bites. HERE is the recipe. Enjoy! xx DJB