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3 Vegetarian Bento Box Lunch Ideas

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Alyssia Sheikh
Alyssia Sheikh
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Recipes in this Video

6 recipes
gluten-freevegetarian

Pasta salad is a classic American dish often served at picnics and potlucks, showcasing the versatility of pasta with fresh vegetables and tangy dressings. This gluten-free version allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the same vibrant flavors and textures. It's a popular dish during summer gatherings, but its appeal extends year-round as a quick and satisfying side.

Ingredients

  • gluten free pasta
  • cherry tomatoes
  • cucumber
  • bell pepper
  • red onion
  • black olives
  • feta cheese
  • olive oil
  • red wine vinegar
  • dried oregano
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • fresh basil

Instructions

  1. 1Cook gluten free pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and cool.
  2. 2Halve cherry tomatoes and dice cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
  3. 3Slice black olives and crumble feta cheese into small pieces.
  4. 4In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
  5. 5In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  6. 6Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  7. 7Chop fresh basil and sprinkle on top of the salad for garnish.
  8. 8Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
  9. 9Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  10. 10Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredient Alternatives

feta cheese

Healthier: goat cheese

Cheaper: cottage cheese

Goat cheese provides a tangy flavor while being lower in calories.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a more budget-friendly option with a neutral flavor.

Techniques

boilingmixing

Equipment

large potcolanderlarge bowlwhiskcutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowmilk

Also Known As

Pasta SaladGF Pasta Salad

Ingredients

  • 8 oz Banza chickpea pasta
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Cook the Banza chickpea pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. 2In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. 3Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  4. 4Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. 5Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper.
  6. 6Remove the saucepan from heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
  7. 7Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat the pasta evenly.
  8. 8If desired, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  9. 9Serve hot and enjoy your Banza Chickpea Mac & Cheese!

Equipment

large potmedium saucepanwhiskbaking dish (optional)
gluten-freedairy-freevegan

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a food processor, combine the black beans, eggs, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.
  3. 3Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
  4. 4If using, fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula.
  5. 5Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  6. 6Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
  7. 7Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. 8Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares.
  9. 9Serve warm or at room temperature.

Equipment

food processor8x8 inch baking panspatulameasuring cupsmeasuring spoons
veganvegetarianplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 2 cups watermelon, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • skewers

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. 2Wash the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly.
  3. 3Cut the watermelon into 1-inch cubes.
  4. 4On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, followed by a cube of watermelon, and a basil leaf. Repeat until the skewer is filled, leaving some space at the ends.
  5. 5Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze.
  6. 6Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the skewers.
  7. 7Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until the tomatoes are slightly charred.
  8. 8Remove the skewers from the grill and let them cool for a minute before serving.

Equipment

grillskewers
veganvegetarianplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 3 medium apples (any variety)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (320°F).
  2. 2Wash and core the apples, then slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick).
  3. 3In a bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, and sugar (if using) until evenly coated.
  4. 4Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
  5. 5Air fry the apple slices for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
  6. 6Check for doneness; if they are not crispy enough, continue air frying in 2-minute increments until desired texture is reached.
  7. 7Remove the apple chips from the air fryer and let them cool completely before serving.

Equipment

Air fryerCutting boardKnifeMixing bowl

Lemon bars are a classic American dessert, believed to have originated in the 1960s. They combine a buttery shortbread crust with a tangy lemon filling, reflecting the popularity of citrus in American baking. These sweet-tart treats are often served at gatherings and picnics, showcasing their versatility and appeal. Today, lemon bars are enjoyed in various forms, including gluten-free and vegan adaptations, making them a beloved dessert across different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

  • butter
  • granulated sugar
  • all-purpose flour
  • powdered sugar
  • eggs
  • lemon juice
  • lemon zest
  • baking powder

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Grease a baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper.
  3. 3In a bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. 4Mix in flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. 5Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  6. 6Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, until lightly golden.
  7. 7In another bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and powdered sugar until smooth.
  8. 8Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
  9. 9Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until set.
  10. 10Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  11. 11Dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.

Ingredient Alternatives

granulated sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Cheaper: brown sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil adds a unique flavor while being dairy-free.

all-purpose flour

Healthier: almond flour

Cheaper: cake flour

Almond flour is gluten-free and adds nuttiness.

powdered sugar

Healthier: erythritol

Cheaper: cornstarch + sugar

Erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener.

Techniques

mixingbakingwhisking

Equipment

baking dishmixing bowlwhiskwire rack
glutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Lemon Squares

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