Protein Packs are super trendy right now, and for good reason. A pick-and-mix approach to building them means everyone can have a fun and healthy meal on the go.
How to build a powerful protein pack:
- Start off with a protein source or two *obviously* (cheese slices, low sodium deli meats, boiled egg, hummus, yogurt, nut butter)
- Throw in some veggies (cucumber slices, baby carrots, celery sticks, grape tomatoes, edamame)
- Jazz it up with fruit (grapes, apple wedges, banana, orange sections or whatever is fresh in season)
- Anchor it all with grains (crackers, pitas, whole grain bread, rice cakes)
- Have some fun by adding a treat (dark chocolate, ranch for dipping, popcorn, thoughtful note)
Some other tips:
- Invest in some bento box style containers or divided glass containers
- Even better yet, check out these containers made of rice husks that are reusable and contain no plastic (idea submitted by SC follower Melissa)
- Use muffin cups to separate items, we especially love the reusable silicone ones
- Set up a DIY protein pack bar and let everyone build their own combination, this is also a great way to use up leftovers
- Did you know that hummus and yogurt freeze well? Individual cups can be frozen and tossed in a lunch, doubles as an ice pack and is perfectly thawed come lunch time
- Adult-it-up and create a charcuterie inspired protein pack featuring your fav imported cheeses, roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, olives, nuts, figs, grapes and whole grain crackers. Drizzle the cheese and veggies with a balsamic glaze for an even more indulgent touch (food should be fun!)
- Protein packs are also readily available at stores if you are in a pinch, sure beats a calorie heavy hamburger & fries or a lame drive-thru salad
To learn more about your personal protein needs – check out this article!
Happy eating!