LET’S DO LUNCH
Give your midday meal a boost with these make-ahead ideas
Whether you are looking to save a little money by eating out less, or you’re starting to get sick of your usual PB&J, the new year is a great opportunity to switch up your lunch routine. These easy, hearty recipes will keep you warm and satisfied during the winter months.
Our warm lentil salad is a delicious marriage of a variety of flavours and textures — cooked lentils are mixed with tender potatoes, crisp asparagus, soft baby kale and creamy goat cheese, then tossed in a flavourful vinaigrette made with sherry vinegar, chives, shallot and Dijon. The salad is best served warm, but keeps well as a cold lunch.
Make our spicy slow cooker black bean soup this weekend, then freeze and reheat for a warm bowl of spicy comfort throughout the week. It’s chock-full of black beans, vegetables and chorizo, making it a highprotein, high-fibre choice for a satisfying lunch that will give you the energy to last through the afternoon. The soup can be served simply with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a workday lunch, or jazz it up with additional toppings, like sliced jalapenos or shredded cheese to feed a crowd.
ATCO Blue Flame Kitchen’s column on healthy eating for busy families runs Wednesdays in the food section. For tips on cooking, food safety or household matters, call 1-877-420-9090 toll-free, email bfkanswerline@atco.com or chat with us live online at ATCOBlueFlameKitchen.com.