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There are many times in life, when spending an hour or two preparing lunches to take to work or school throughout the week is just not feasible. You know the times. While you may think the only option is to pick up lunch at a restaurant there are some options that require little or no prep time, can be very well balanced and save you money all at the same time.

Here are some of my favorites – most of them require a quick trip to the grocery store and will provide a few lunches!

• Mezze Platter: whole grain pita + hummus + baba ganoush + baby carrots & pepper slices
• Avocado Sandwich: whole grain bread + wholly guacamole packet + tomato slices + lettuce or sprouts
• AB & J: sprouted bread + almond butter + jam or preserves (grown-up PB & J!)
• Cottage Cheese: cottage cheese + garbanzo beans + favorite seasoning + baby carrots on the side
• Cheese & Crackers: triscuits (or other 100% whole grain cracker) + 1 oz sliced cheese + 2 oz deli turkey + grape tomatoes
• Yogurt Parfait: plain greek yogurt + fresh or frozen berries + 1 serving high fiber cereal like Uncle Sam’s Original
• Snack Plate: hard boiled egg + carrots & celery sticks + whole grain crackers + 1 oz cheese cubes + apple

What are your quick and easy lunches that you rely on during busy times?

Spring is finally here, although it is currently snowing in Minnesota. I’m ignoring it and moving on with Spring.

I’ve been ready for warm weather meals like yogurt & granola, cereal and smoothies for the last few months (or maybe I’ve just been longing for warm sun) but they often leave me hungry by 10am. Luckily there are a couple of ways to make these breakfasts last the entire morning:

• Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt or Skyrr as it has a lot more protein than regular yogurt (and it is worth the extra $)
• Cereal or Granola: Should be whole grain, high fiber and extra points for protein and good fats (Uncle Sam Cereal or Kashi Go Lean are great ones)
• Good Fats: Will add staying power to your meal – chopped nuts or nut butter are great, easy additions
• Fresh Fruit: For flavor, sweetness, something fresh and some natural beauty

Your typical yogurt and granola is probably full of added sugars and lacking in protein, fiber and good fats. Make a few of the changes I’ve suggested and you’re starting your day in a great way.

Nutrition Stats: 428 calories, 13 g fat, 30 g protein, 17 g fiber (Using 1 cup 2% Fage Greek Yogurt, 3/4 cup Uncle Sams Cereal, 1/4 oz almonds (about 6), 3/4 cup raspberries)

What do you add to breakfast so that it stays with you until lunch?