My Favorite Lunch

[highlight]A light and flavorful lunch idea that thinks outside the conventional “sandwich or salad” lunch norm. [/highlight]

[lead]Growing up, one of my family’s favorite meals was simply called “Cheese & Crackers”. When I first introduced this meal to my then boyfriend (now husband), he was mystified that I considered crackers with cheese to be one of my favorite meals. [/lead]

After joining my family many times for “Cheese and Cracker Night”, his opinion was changed and it has since become one of our favorite meals to have together in our house. “Cheese and Crackers” in my family doesn’t just mean some sliced cheese served on top of crackers. It’s more of a “picnic” inspired meal consisting of salami/charcuterie, fresh bread, assorted cheeses, crackers, fresh fruit such as strawberries and grapes, hummus, olives, etc. It’s filling but also light and refreshing at the same time.

This week, while participating in the Healthy Lunch Challenge, I decided to make a themed “cheese and cracker” inspired meal for lunch. I think a lot of the times we get stuck in the mindset that we have to have “lunch” foods at lunchtime: a main entree (sandwich or salad), fruit or another side and a beverage.

This Mediterranean Lunch Plate shows that lunch doesn’t necessarily have to be a complete “meal” and rather can just be an assortment of delicious small bites and great flavors.

I stuck with a Mediterranean theme and included some fresh made hummus, grilled artichoke hearts, sweet bell peppers, marinated olives, tabouli, fresh tomatoes, salami and grilled flatbread. It reminded me so much of when I went to Greece a few years ago and just enjoyed fresh “appetizer” type foods as a main course in the fresh air (usually with a glass of wine!). It’s so fresh and light, but filling at the same time.

What’s your favorite lunch?