We've seen enough sad desk lunches in our day to know that it's hard to pack a meal that's healthy and delicious. And it gets much harder when we procrastinate to the point where we're running out the door and grabbing the nearest food in sight.
So we asked the experts—nutritionists, doctors, and trainers—to share their go-to packed lunches. From mason jar salads to smoothies, these dishes are easy to prep (and transport) and chock-full of flavor.
1. Jackie Warner
Trainer and author of This Is Why You're Sick and TiredMy favorite packed lunch is a simple (but still crazy delicious)avocado sandwich. I start with two slices of whole-grain bread and then add half an avocado (sliced), half a tomato (sliced), a handful of alfalfa sprouts, and a handful of dark, leafy lettuce. When I want to up my protein intake, I add 3 ounces of free-range grilled chicken breast or turkey.
More from Greatist: 27 Healhty and Portable Mason jar Meals
2. David Katz, M.D., M.P.H.
Director of Yale University Prevention Research Center and author of Disease Proof
Usually I eat a late breakfast and then snack until dinner, but when I decide to pack lunch, it's often a black bean, tomato, and corn salad with a dressing made from extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of cumin. Sometimes I'll add feta cheese for some more protein and flavor.
3. Lisa Lillien
Founder of Hungry Girl
One of my go-to lunches is a mix of broccoli slaw, tuna, and chopped apple. I start with half a bag of the slaw, which is shredded broccoli stems, carrots, and cabbage. Then I mix in a 5-ounce can (or 4.5-ounce packet) of sweet and spicy tuna and half of a Fuji apple (chopped). It couldn't be easier! The tuna is so flavorful, you don't even need dressing. I love this lunch because it's filling, convenient, and delicious.
More from Greatist: 60 Awesome Ways to Spice Up Boring Chicken Breasts
4. Brett Hoebel
Trainer and creator of the 20-Minute Body
One of my favorite lunches is packed with protein and veggies: I start with a few homemade turkey meatballs that I season with mushroom, onion, ginger, and sodium-free herbs and spices. I put the meatballs on top of a cup of steamed Chinese cabbage that I season with fresh, shredded ginger, and then add a sliced avocado on top. I also opt for a small baked sweet potato and a couple of slices of fresh jicama on the side.
5. Joe Cross
Founder of Reboot With Joe
I travel constantly, so my lunches are far from routine, but you can never go wrong with a smoothie. It's something you can make in the morning and pop into a travel bottle. At lunchtime, add a few ice cubes, give it a shake, and you're golden! A favorite of mine that's packed with antioxidants is 1 1/2 cups almond milk, 1 cup frozen mango, 2 handfuls spinach, and 1 tablespoon each cacao powder, hemp seeds, and almond butter.
More from Greatist: What the World's Top Healthy Experts Eat for Breakfast
