Mediterranean Lunch Wrap

Lunch can be difficult. Preparing meals ahead of time, planning on healthy eating in the midst of chips and cake and cookies at work can be some of the biggest challenges one faces when making healthy changes. It can seem like the whole world is trying to sabotage your resolutions, especially in the midst of workday stresses and hunger pangs. 

Over the next few weeks we aim to suggest some easy make ahead lunches that are healthy, full of flavor and most importantly, satisfying. When you have something delicious on hand, it is easier to walk past the sweets and diet sabotages that can set your fitness plan back. Arm yourself with healthy foods, and you'll be ready for anything the day throws your way. 

Mediterranean Wrap

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/3 cup couscous, preferably whole-wheat
• 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp  ground pepper
• 1 pound chicken tenders 
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 4 10-inch spinach, wheat or sun-dried tomato wraps or tortillas

Method:

-Boil water and add couscous, cooking to package directions. Fluff with a fork when cooked. 

-Mix parsley, lemon juice, mint, garlic and oil in small bowl with salt and pepper. Set aside.

-Toss chicken with 1 tbsp of the parsley mixture and cook in a skillet over medium heat  until cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.

-Using the remaining parsley mixture, stir into couscous with tomato and cucumber. 

-Spread couscous mix over the wrap, dividing the chicken onto each wrap. 

**If taking for lunch, it is better to assemble wrap when ready to eat, to prevent sogginess. Just bring chicken and couscous mixture in tupperware container and add to wrap when ready to chow down. 

Small changes CAN make a huge difference. Don't forget to plan for your healthy lifestyle to ensure success! See you back here next week for another easy lunch recipe to aid you in a healthier 2015!