Seven ways to eat more wholesome lunches

Build your own

A simple jar is ideal for transporting delicious lunches to work. These pesto salad pots, which layer up fresh pesto with plenty of roasted veg and fresh salad, are just the ticket.

To avoid a soggy lunch, keep wet and dry ingredients separate until you’re ready to serve. For this homemade ramen, simply put a spoonful of miso paste in the bottom of the jar and top with cooked noodles, sliced vegetables and herbs. Come lunchtime, simply add boiling water and stir. You can even add half a boiled egg for some extra protein, if you like.

Try a Scandi staple

Try changing up your usual sandwich by stealing some inspiration from Scandi cooking. Often using rye bread as the base, the Scandinavians favour simple open sandwiches with pickles and smoked fish for plenty of flavour, fibre and protein. Try topping a slice of rye bread with smoked salmon, mackerel or hard-boiled egg and a scattering of pickled vegetables. 

Superb swaps

Courgetti has become a popular substitute for spaghetti, and is a great way of making dishes lighter and more nutritious. But did you know you can spiralise other fruits and vegetables, too? Spiralised apple and melon make a delicious, refreshing snack, while cucumber or carrot add crunch to salads. Or try it hot with sweet potato or beetroot noodles in stir-fries and pasta dishes.