Hello! I know that making a good lunch is a bit of a struggle for a lot of people, so I’m going to try and post more lunch-related recipes and tips. Meal prep is a great solution to this problem, it just takes a lttle bit of planning and organization. On the weekends, its super easy to make a big batch of something, like this Black Bean Stew, and then BOOM; you have lunch for the week. This stew is delicious and only takes 15 minutes to make, not to mention you can serve it with pretty much whatever you want to switch up your lunch time experience. Because yes, eating this black bean stew is an experience.

Black Bean Stew

Serves: 3 (Makes three lunches)

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 tbs olive oil
• 1/2 a red onion, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 tbs of tomato paste
• 1 tbs cumin
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp chile powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Serving Suggestions:

• quinoa
• rice
• tomato
• lettuce
• humms
• sliced almonds
• kale

Directions:

1. In a pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add in the tomatoes and onions and cook for about 6-8 minutes, until both vegetables are soft.
2. Toss the garlic, black beans, tomato paste and spices into the pan with the water. Stir and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Scoop into a reusable container on its own or with some of the above suggestions. Store in the fridge until you need it;)

It doesn’t get easier than that. This stew will leave you feeling satisfied and full. It tastes great cold, but if you pack it in a microwavable container you can always heat it up at school. Enjoy!

Yours Truly,

MyDayIsBooked;)))