Ideas for inexpensive relatively healthy lunches?

[mjbaby]

I can see going to the dollar store & maybe finding little compartmental containers in the stationary aisle (like for pens, paper clips, etc.) that would work inside a Gladware lunch container.

Be careful of things that aren't "food grade" or aren't known to be safe for food. I think you're on the right track, though.

I bought stuff from here: http://stores.ebay.com/The-Bento-Store

 

[Imzadi]

Be careful of things that aren't "food grade" or aren't known to be safe for food.

Agreed! I definitely wouldn't microwave in anything non-food grade. However this pic shows they've lined the container with 3 fluted foil cups. So that would protect the foods in containers you're not sure about.

I am definitely Bento Box inspired! I found this site:
http://www.lunchinabox.net/
It's a great way to be inaginative, make an appetizing food presentation, get a good variety and eat healthy for lunch. (I'd personally, add more protein.) There's not a boring old sandwich in the bunch.

.

 

[Liberty Belle]

Do you have a Krogers with a salad bar? If so, you can get a big container of spinach for less than 40 cents. That with some leaf lettuce would make a nice lunch if you throw in your own dressing and a little shredded cheese.

 

[mla2177]

I've been eating tomato salad for lunch lately. I take one or two plum roma tomatoes and cut them in wedges. Then I use one to two TBSP of extra light olive oil and equal parts of red wine vinegar (whisk together). Then I chop up a shallot really fine and sometimes mince some capers. I add salt and pepper to taste. It is very good if you like tomatoes. Plus, it's super good for you. Olive oil, vinegar and tomatoes are supposed to be three foods that are essential to a good diet(according to Dr. Oz on Oprah).

 

[moosemom]

I like the little bento options too

Not to hijack the thread but I wanted to make a couple of observations about these [I bought them when my oldest [now going into fourth grade] was in kindy - we have a great oriental market near us with tons of options LOL

1. If you're using the bento box be sure to pack the lunch with an ice pack if there's anything spoilable - cut up that small it gets warm almost immediately and that's a long time in the 'danger zone'

2. If you're using it for school lunches make SURE it's something that's a) leakproof [ask me why I know] and b) something the kids can open themselves and

3. Another good option for school lunches or work lunches for those without a microwave is a food jar [we have the ones made by thermos] great for soups and such - doesn't leak and holds heat quite well

 

[medalla74]

This is just another reason why I love this board!

 

[DisneyClay]

I like bacon and tomato sandwiches. Or I will use ham or turkey sandwiches.I work evening shift so I hardly ever cook, But trying to save for my disney trip I have started bringing my lunch.

 

[FormrCastMbr]

I have not read the entire thread so forgive me if this idea has already been posted.

Baked Potatoes are good. The topping choices are endless:

Chili cheese
broccoli and cheese (the frozen birds eye make a great/easy choice)
salsa and sour cream