Just like vehicles that need a bit of refueling, the body needs refueling at the middle of the day to recharge and have enough energy to the last stretch of the day. That’s what lunch breaks during noontime are for in schools and offices. It also serves as a time to relax and unwind midday, catch up with friends working in the same vicinity, and probably discover a new restaurant or two while at work. Lunch specials in restaurants like soup and salad sets or a full, hearty meal consisting of steak, sides, soup, and dessert are popular depending on the person’s appetite or needs.
Usually, lunch meals are heavier especially if breakfast was quick and light. Roast chicken or beef for the main course with buttered vegetables and mashed potatoes on the side are popular in school cafeterias where set meals are available. Others may choose to go light just like soup and salad and probably a slice of cake for dessert. Beverages are usually iced tea or soda but juices make a healthier option, especially those made from fresh fruits. Nowadays, there are lunch menus catering to special diets like vegetarian, low sodium, or low carbohydrate, or a combination of many dietary needs.
Whether in a fast food restaurant or high-end restaurant or probably to go in a nearby food joint a hop and a skip from school or work, this meal, or any other meal should not be skipped. Think of it as a treat midday and the need to recharge in order to complete a full-day’s task, most especially if the work involves physical labor. Make sure too, to try incorporating healthy food in the plate, like vegetables, (can be salad, soup, sidings, or main course), fruits served fresh or blended into smoothies, and healthy protein like meats or seafood and probably some eggs. Popular carbohydrate sources are usually rice, pilaf, or pasta. Those who are always on-the-go can grab a sandwich, which on its own is a complete meal, with meat, vegetables, and a sprinkling of spread. This meal-on-the-go could be eaten while completing errands or on the office desk. But when you can, sit down, relax, and enjoy a hearty lunch at home or in a new restaurant.
For those who don’t have time to go through the course of appetizer, soup, salad, main dish, and dessert, stir fry some meats and vegetables and serve with rice. Or probably toss in pasta with fresh pre-made or store-bought sauces in a can served with grated Parmesan cheese. The possibilities are endless.