Lunch Box Bean Salad

You asked me for more bean recipes. Here’s a delicious packed lunch that’s great for both kids and adults. Even better, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free. Enjoy!

Substitute different fruits, vegetables, beans, and crackers to fit your preferences.

Lunch Box Bean Salad Ingredients

• One can of mixed beans drained and rinsed (butter beans, cannellini beans, chickpeas, and red kidney beans)

• 1 cup frozen edamame in the shell

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• ½ tablespoon olive oil

• ½ tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Lunch Box Bean Salad Directions

1. Bring a small pot of water to a boil and cook the edamame from frozen for 3 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Peel and set the beans aside for the salad.

2. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix.

Photo credits: Amazing student volunteer Olivia. In the lunch box pictured we have:

• Mixed Bean Salad

• Fruit (cut into fun shapes)

• Veggies

• Whole Grain Crackers

• Mixed Seeds

For another delicious bean recipe, check out Black-Eyed Peas with Kale and Sweet Potato

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It's a Great Day to Start a New Healthy Habit

It may be Tuesday September 8th, but for me it’s the first day of a new year. It’s the day after Labour Day. For many kids it’s the first day of a new school year. And while it’s been 12 years since I was in school, I can’t shake the itch to start fresh at this time of year. Regardless of how long it’s been since you went back to school, this week is a fantastic time to start something new. I mean, any day is the first day of the rest of your life. Why not start a new healthy habit today?

If you’ve been connecting with me on Facebook or Instagram you’ve seen that 2 weeks ago I started a new daily meditation habit (that picture above is a shot from 1 of my meditation spots). I started meditating sporadically many years ago. Over the winter I increased the frequency to several times a week. I liked what it was adding to my life. So one random Sunday I decided to pick up my game and meditate daily. I’m aiming for 365 days. I admit that I’ve been tempted to skip days. But so far I’m proud to let you know that I’m 15 for 15.

What new habit will you start this week? Here are a few ideas to spark your inspiration:

• Pack a lunch. Not only is this a healthier habit than eating out every day, but you’ll save money too.
• Turn off the screens during meals. It’s a simple way to enjoy more pleasure from your food. And, by being more in-tune with your body, you’ll likely eat less (or should I say, over-eat less).
• Buy a water bottle to stimulate yourself to drink more water.
• Meal plan for the week.
• Make a point of trying 1 new vegetable each week.

Share you’re new habit in a comment below. Articulating your commitment increases the likelihood that you’ll do it!