Adult lunch box

More and more people are packing their lunch for work every day, but most people don't want peanut butter and jelly. Here are some great options for lunch.

Mediterranean Quinoa Tabbouleh

1 ½ cup Cooked Quinoa (approx. 1 cup raw) - Manganese, Magnesium, Iron, Protein, Phosphorus
¼ cup Seedless Cucumber (skin included, small dice) - Fiber, Folic acid, and Vitamins A & C
1 ounce Red Pepper (small dice) - Fiber, Vitamin A, C, E, B6, Folate, Potassium
1 cup Flat leaf Parsley (chopped) - Vitamin C, Folic acid, Iron
2 Tablespoon Fresh Mint (chopped)
2 Tablespoon Olive Oil (first press) - Monounsaturated fats, Vitamins E & K
1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice - Vitamin C
1 Tablespoon Red Onion (minced) - Vitamins B6, C, Biotin, Chromium, Fiber
2 teaspoon Sherry Vinegar
1 teaspoon Black Pepper

Method:
1. Cook quinoa in two cups water at a medium high simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring often.
2. Drain cooked grain and chill.
3. Mix with all other ingredients.

Quinoa: Quinoa is high in protein. It is a complete protein, which means it includes all nine essential amino acids. It is especially high in the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. It is also a good source of magnesium, a mineral that helps relax blood vessels, preventing the constriction and rebound dilation characteristic of migraines. Increased intake of magnesium has been shown to be related to a reduced frequency of headache episodes reported by migraine sufferers.

Cucumbers: Leaving cucumber skins on maintains many valuable minerals such as silica, potassium, magnesium, and molybdenum. Silica is a mineral that adds strength to connective tissues.

Parsley: Parsley is rich in chlorophyll and carotenes. It is a great source of vitamin C, folic acid and iron. It is a source of minerals including magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc. Parsley is loaded with dietary fiber. Parsley is known to fight against the effects of consuming fried foods.

Mint: As most aromatic plants, mint is a carminative and aids in digestion. Peppermint soothes nasal symptoms and has exhibited some anti-cancer properties.
Recipe submitted by Chef Frank Turner

- Often times, it’s difficult to find easy-to-pack lunches that are also delicious.
- Quinoa is a complete protein, which is a source of protein that contains an adequate proportion of all nine of the essential amino acids necessary for the dietary needs of humans or other animals.
- Quinoa is a good choice for vegans and vegetarians to incorporate protein into their meals
- By wrapping this tabbouleh salad in a spinach or tomato lavash, the meal is easy to travel with and provides a balance of protein, fiber and carbohydrates.