Finding healthy and exciting lunch options can be a challenge for many of us. As the creator of Malibu Farm restaurants, I have dedicated years to crafting dishes that are both nourishing and full of flavor. Interestingly, my journey into the culinary world was not traditional – I used to refer to myself as a “cooler lady,” lugging around a cooler filled with food while catering private events in Hollywood. However, a simple compliment from my daughter’s friend changed my perspective, and I embraced the title as a badge of honor.
My approach to creating meals revolves around blending vegetables, grains, and vegetarian proteins to create a harmonious balance on the plate. I draw inspiration from my Swedish roots, incorporating comforting starches like potatoes with proteins such as quinoa, lentils, or beans. This forms the foundation of many of my dishes, which I complement with a simple salad and occasionally add dairy, poultry, or seafood.
Spring is an exciting season for ingredients, as the farmer’s market comes alive with fresh produce like asparagus, carrots, peas, spinach, and herbs. These ingredients add vibrancy and variety to our plates, making mealtime more enjoyable.
Here are six high-protein spring lunch ideas to elevate your midday meals:
1. Roasted asparagus with marinated white beans and fresh herbs, paired with grilled fish or shrimp.
2. Roasted baby carrots with red lentils and Israeli couscous in lemon dressing, topped with hot honey and served with yogurt or goat cheese.
3. Spring peas and broccolini with pesto and orzo, accompanied by roasted chicken for extra protein.
4. Mixed salad greens with quinoa, green lentils, mushrooms, avocado, parmesan cheese, and alfalfa sprouts, paired with crispy tofu strips.
5. Vegetable frittata with marinated artichokes and cheese, served with a raw shaved artichoke salad.
6. Whole wheat wrap tortilla filled with hummus, Greek salad ingredients, feta cheese, crispy garbanzo beans, and lettuce.
To make meal preparation easier, I recommend saving leftovers from previous meals or making extra portions to use in upcoming dishes. Precooking grains and proteins like quinoa, lentils, and beans and storing them in the fridge with a light lemon dressing can streamline meal preparation and ensure you always have a nutritious option on hand.
While spring ingredients are essential, my daily latte with whole milk is my go-to energizer. I believe in the power of simplicity and well-seasoned dishes to create delicious and satisfying meals. One of my favorite dishes is a baby potato salad with cooked grains, beans, herbs, lemon dressing, and a dollop of mayonnaise, paired with eggs, chicken, or smoked salmon.
Incorporating colorful and flavorful ingredients like spring garlic, pickled chilies, and high-protein cheeses can add depth and excitement to your meals. Don’t be afraid to experiment and play with different textures and flavors to create a memorable dining experience. Remember, a burst of color and a kick of spice can elevate any dish and make mealtime more enjoyable.
In conclusion, creating high-protein lunches doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating fresh ingredients, meal prepping, and experimenting with flavors, you can transform your midday meals into a delicious and nourishing experience. So, embrace the joy of cooking and savor every bite of your spring-inspired creations.