I love cute 'bento' lunches, but I don't have much time nor the will to create such elaborate lunches. A lot of you may be the same. I do believe though by adding a few creative touches, it will remind the person eating it that you are sending your love through this lunch ~ especially helping children enjoy their lunch, and thus EAT their lunch.
1. Use leftovers: When planning your evening meal, cook a little extra of everything (depending on how many lunches you need to prepare in the morning). You don't need to have a lot of any one ingredient, but you do need a variety of taste and texture.
2. Food flavor: Choose dishes that are tasty even when cold. When cooking fish or meats, add extra salt or lemon juice if you want to cut down on sodium. Salt helps keep food from spoiling, and giving it more flavor when cold.
3. Food safety: Let food cool properly so it doesn't spoil. Add a gel pack in the lunchbox before sending it off.
4. Quick prep time: Boiling foods is best for bento lunches. Boil vegetables, even meat or fish. You'll get a subtle flavor which is good for boxed lunches. Just make sure to drain water well from the boiled food. If necessary, pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
5. Visual appeal: Think of how you can add color and some fun to your meal. To have food well presented helps prepare the lunch eater to enjoy the meal.
- Using lettuce or adding cherry tomatoes, boiled carrots or brocoli reallys add a punch of colour.
- Silicone cups or molds come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes and helps separate food.
- Food picks hold food in place or can be used as a replacement for a fork.
Imagine the delighted face on the lunch eater
when the lid comes off that lunch box!
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