One of the biggest challenges for busy women can be finding the perfect healthy lunch. Packing the same old sandwich or salad every day can become boring and frustrating. When at a loss, it is easy to slip into old habits such as grabbing whatever is available or eating at the mercy of  your nearest fast food restaurant.  For busy women, we want variety and an easy healthy lunch to go.  One of my new favorites is a Black Bean Power Salad. RECIPE:

• 1 cup whole-kernel corn
• 2 cans (16oz each) of black beans, rinsed and drained
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• 2 TBS minced red onion
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 TBS olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
• Salt and pepper

 

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, combine the corn, beans, parsley, onions, vinegar, oil, lemon juice, garlic, and honey or brown sugar.  Let it marinade for the 30 minutes.  Add salt and pepper to taste.

 

NUTRITIONAL VALUE:

Calories            417.6

Fat                   6.9

Sodium 220.3

Protein             21.7

Fiber                21.3

It is so delicious and look at the fiber and protein…..a guarantee to keep you full and satisfied.  I make it right after church on Sunday to prepare for my upcoming week.   It just takes a few minutes each morning or the night before to pack my easy healthy lunch to go.

To add a little more protein, I add any leftover grilled chicken (nutritional value not included with chicken).  For variety, I reduce my serving size and add cheese and crackers.  All together, here is my lunch to go.

 

Don’t forget your calories with crackers which can add up quickly.  My favorite cracker that gives me the most bang for the buck is Triscuits Thin Crisp.

 

At only 150 calories for 15 crackers, half of a serving is perfect. Combine with string cheese at 80 calories and you Black Bean Power Salad and you have an easy healthy lunch to go.