BY NEVA COCHRAN, MS, RD, LD
Admit it: Making your lunch every day can get a bit tedious. When you reach your breaking point, you start buying your lunch more often, which means consuming unhealthier foods. No fret. Maximum Fitness is here to save the day. Try these two quick and easy lunches and you’ll feel motivated again in no time.
1. EASY CHEESE STEAK SANDWICH
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 oz frozen fully cooked seasoned beef strips
• 1 slice non-fat cheese
• 1 whole wheat hamburger bun
• 10 baby carrots
• 2 tbsp low-fat ranch dressing
• 1 medium orange
INSTRUCTIONS:
Heat beef strips in a microwave oven, according to package directions, about 3 or 4 minutes. Layer beef strips and cheese on a bun. Enjoy with baby carrots and dressing. Have an orange for dessert.
2. SOUP AND SALAD
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup fat-free, sodium-reduced chunky chicken noodle soup (like Campbell’s Healthy Request or Progresso Healthy Favorites)
• 2 cups bagged raw spinach
• 2 oz lean deli ham, sliced into strips
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp raisins
• 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
INSTRUCTIONS:
Heat soup in a microwave oven, about 2 to 4 minutes or until hot. Combine spinach, ham, cheese, mushrooms and raisins in a bowl. Toss with olive oil and vinegar.
Looking to pack on some serious muscle? Pick up the September/October issue of Maximum Fitness—on newsstands August 25, 2009—and learn eight nutrition lessons that will have you packing on size in no time.
