Hi.

I've been a vegan for over a year and a half now, and was vegetarian before that. However I just returned from a year of maternity leave a few months ago, and I am at a loss of what to bring for lunch. While on maternity leave, I had pleantly of time to try out new recipes, and I loved it- there was always some kind of yummy leftovers to eat (my husband and kids are not vegan)

But now- with being at work full time and my time at home with the kids being limited, I cant bear to spend all of my time in the kitchen. Anyone have any ideas on what I can take for lunch that is quick easy and healthy? I cant buy lunch out every day (its too expensive~ and a girl can only eat soo much salad) I would love any ideas you can thow my way!

Thanks so much!

This is one of my favorites for when I have to bring lunch to school:

http://ohsheglows.com/2010/11/03/cinnamon-sweet-potato-chickpea-salad/

I use one can (19oz) chickpeas and one package of frozen cubed sweet potato & it only takes me 5 minutes + baking!

Try some of these fast, easy to pack/carry and delicious sandwiches, wraps...: http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/08/26/25-back-to-school-sandwiches-veggie-style/

Hi Donna,

In the morning, I blanch a couple cups of greens (like pea greens, bok choy and the like), then cool them by rinsing in cold water, drain, then it goes in a lunch container with cubed tofu, 1/2 cup beans, or leftover grains. I use the water for my morning breakfast miso soup.

When I get to work I heat it all up, top with an oil dressing I make with shoyu, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.

This is a super easy, quick lunch that warms up the belly. It's really healthy and it keeps me satisfied.

I hope that helps!

http://www.marystestkitchen.com

Sorry it took me so long to see this- adjusting back to work has been tough. Thanks everyone these are great tips! I will definitely have to try them out!

I like making a big tub of hummus to have on hand to munch with crackers or carrots etc .... plus, mixed nuts for snacks .... if I have something to nibble on all the time it helps too.

There's a really great thermos from Nesters

stainless steel

keeps for a bit

then you could bring just about anything

and it could be warm

I used to make bean and greens soups in the morning

and brown rice,

maybe try a slow cooker over night and just pour in the morning

and could even have some of that for breakfast

hummus is great for time, if you can eat them sprouted tortillas

baby carrots are a good standby, raw food bars

olives, easy to wash vegetables

I think its good to have staples on hand you know you can turn to in a pinch

or like squashes are easy to make, I think would cook ok overnight on low in a crock pot and then take with you, with some nuts or something, maybe some legumes, most lentils don't take long

glass tupperwear is good too, or the container store has washable bags as well

(obviously the glass in something insulated :))

Best of luck!