Ideas For Lunches On The Go?

[Lilith]

I work outside sometimes and need lunch ideas that are quick, easy to eat and satisfying. Before going gluten-free, I would usually take a sandwich. Now that I really can't find a gluten-free bread that I like, sandwiches don't hold the same appeal.

I have been taking gluten-free granola/breakfast/energy bars and fruit like apples or tangerines and snacks like dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds.

Any ideas for a more substantial meal on the go? Salads are not easy to eat in my field environment, I can't heat anything up or mix together anything complicated . . . I prefer being a vegetarian but sometimes eat meat if the situation presents itself. So while a cold grilled chicken breast may be fine once in a while, I don't want to eat that every day.

Thanks in advance for any ideas you can share -

Lilith

[aeraen]

one of my favorite "go to" meals when I know I won't be home for lunch is rice crackers and egg salad. I'll also go the chicken salad or tuna salad route. I also like carrot or celery sticks and hummus, or apple wedges and peanut butter. Crackers, sliced sharp cheddar and cranberry chutney (home made) is another treat I make.

[iamsarar]

I follow a gluten free, vegan diet. I will take La Victoria wraps with hummus and veggie, Brown rice cakes with a nut butter and banana, Veggie salad with almonds for protein, Brown rice with veggie in a to go container. Ezekiel makes a gluten free English muffin that is good and I will take that with nut butter. Also, I like Schar sandwich bread and rolls. Makes a great PB&J! Udi's has egg whites so I won't eat it.

[Marilyn R]

I work outside sometimes and need lunch ideas that are quick, easy to eat and satisfying. Before going gluten-free, I would usually take a sandwich. Now that I really can't find a gluten-free bread that I like, sandwiches don't hold the same appeal.

I have been taking gluten-free granola/breakfast/energy bars and fruit like apples or tangerines and snacks like dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds.

Any ideas for a more substantial meal on the go? Salads are not easy to eat in my field environment, I can't heat anything up or mix together anything complicated . . . I prefer being a vegetarian but sometimes eat meat if the situation presents itself. So while a cold grilled chicken breast may be fine once in a while, I don't want to eat that every day.

Thanks in advance for any ideas you can share -

Lilith

I can relate! I have to pack my lunch everyday because I'm on the road and can't count on a microwave or take-out. It's hard to cope with at first, but eventually it gets better. Regarding the salad... Romaine lettuce seems to last the longest and is more nutricious. I carry a small cooler to work, and insert a couple of frozen little blue Coleman Chillers (from the camping section at Wal-Mart). Sometimes I take a can opener and a can of tuna packed in olive oil over the salad. Sometimes I add dried fruits and nuts or seeds. I find I really need protein for lunch. I also bought a little Coleman thermos to pack hot soups or stews in. Or you can mix canned white beans (garbonzo or cannelloni with tuna or salmon, minced celery, etc. Or you can go with chopped white potatoes, capers, green beans and tuna (or other protein.) My go to salad dressing is balsalmic vinegar and olive oil, which I make at home.

If you prefer vegetarian and you have to pack a lunch, my best advice is to buy a five pound pressure cooker and a Lorna Sass PC Cookbook (or check it out from your local library). You can make vegetarian split pea or lentil soup for your thermos, or thai chick peas and rice, there's a whole world of things out there! My best advice is to try to plan and pre-pack your lunch the night before. It's easier than dealing with it the morning of, at least for me, and you feel like you're off to a good start when you can just whip the prepared containers into your lunch box. (Armed and dangerouus! ) Good luck, and hope this helps a little bit!

[Lilith]

Thanks to all three who responded. You've given me some great ideas. My next field assignment starts Monday so I have the weekend to get my act together.

It's easier to plan when you have some choices . . .

Thanks again -

Lilith

[Nor-TX]

Because my Vitamin D is low, and the doctor suggested salmon and sardines I have now been able to raise the level 4 points in 2 months.

I make salmon patties and eat them either hot, cold between Udi or Katz bread. I take a can of sardines to work and open it and eat the pieces with corn chips... very crunchy and yummy.

I make my own granola bars and even just take a Udi bagel with dairy free margarine. If you can eat dairy, throw on a cheese slice or two and munch on some grapes.

Wander through Sprouts or Whole Foods and pick up nuts, dried fruit and mix them together. Make sure they are safe though.

My favorite bread is the Katz brand and I just read that Whole Foods is carrying it here in Plano Texas. It is sweet and reminds me of banada bread. Sometimes I just take some bread and Smart Balance dairy free margarine for lunch.

I don't do the crock pot thing... too many foods I cannot eat. Veggies and meat don't sit well.

Good luck.

[krystynycole]

I use corn tortillas as bread and make a wrap with whatever sandwich fixings you desire.

[MelindaLee]

Have you found the Corn Thins? These are great alternatives to rice cakes and are MUCH thinner. They work better when you don't want to feel like you are eating big hunks of styrofom! I like them as sandwiches or with egg salad/tuna salad on them.