My top 5 go-to lunches.

I don't know about you, but lunches around here have strict requirements. First, they have to be prepared FAST. Second, they have to be healthy. And third, they have to please my toddlers. That's not an easy task!! PB&J gets boring...so here are my other "go to" lunches.

1. Stir-fry: I LLOOVVEE stir fry and it's SO easy! Pour 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup soy sauce into a large skillet and throw in whatever fresh veggies you have lying around. Our favorites are carrots, broccoli, green peppers and tofu (*disclaimer- yes, I am well aware of the effects of soy on hormones, especially little boys', but I buy only quality, organic tofu and we don't eat it very often at all. Tofu is packed with protein, and because I work out everyday, I need that protein!!). MMMMM!! Let it simmer on medium heat while you make some instant brown rice with it - I like the Uncle Ben's "Boil-In-Bag" kind, they only take about 10 mins to prepare. Boom. You're done.

2. Grilled wraps/quesadillas: We almost always have whole wheat tortillas on hand...they're so versitile!! Put some veggies and cheese (or even some left over chicken from last night's dinner) in one, fold it in half and throw it in your microwave for 1 minute---instant, yummy quesadilla. Or, stuff it with some fresh spinach, tomatoes, chunks of fresh mozzarella and basil and drizzle it with EVOO, wrap it up and press it in the good ol' George Forman grill...quick, fancy Caprese wrap!! And it took all of 5 mins to make.

3. Veggies and dip: My kids absolutely LOVE to dip things (it is my understanding that most kids do) before they eat them. Take some low-fat sour cream or plain yogurt, mix in some dill, salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder - you get yummy dip. Put it in a little bowl with some fresh, cut up veggies and beans (big ones, like kidney beans) on the side and, I promise, you'll be astonished how fast your kids are devouring vegetables. Add a couple crackers and grapes on the plate when they're done, and you'll have a complete meal. My SUPER *I'm talking abnormally* picky 17 month old loves it...all because of the dip.

4. Mini-pizza: This one is fun because the kids get to help prepare it. Take an english muffin and open it up the way you would any other time. Let your kids help you spoon a little tomato sauce on it. Then let the creativity flow by letting them sprinkle some cheese on top and adding whatever toppings you have in the fridge...and don't limit them. If they want to put fruit on it...let them. Hawaiian pizza has fruit on it. Addisyn once told me she wanted to put pickles on hers. I let her and she ate that thing right up. Bake it in the toaster oven until the cheese gets all melty. I think when they help make it, lunch becomes more appealing to a 2 year old.

5. Leftovers: I'm a huge fan of leftovers. If you're preparing healthy meals in the evening, make a little extra...or, if it's something your family REALLY likes, even double the recipe. Our favorite "leftover" meal is enchilada casserole. I bake a big tray of it and it lasts us dinner one night, and lunch the next day. Huge time saver and I know it'll be a big hit both days...one less thing to worry about! :)