Bump Up Your Bento Box with Whole Grains

In celebration of Whole Grains Month and students going back to school, I thought it would be fun to experiment with a bento box. For those of you who don't know, "bento" refers to a single-portion takeout very common among the Japanese. A traditional bento is filled with rice, pickled vegetables, and meat or fish, but the way I look at it, a bento box is a great opportunity to load up on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

If you have children, a bento box is also a great idea for a packed lunch. You can cut fruits and vegetables into different shapes and remember to include something that your child is guaranteed to eat. Sneaking in some whole grains is also easy in a bento box.

For example, you can add whole grain crackers, dry cereal, make a sandwich with a whole grain wrap, or even throw in some cooked pasta noodles and add vegetables and olive oil or a bit of dressing. Ultimately, bento boxes are quick to pack and a great way to combine food groups. Who knows, adults may even enjoy this!

Take a look at my whole grain apple and brie recipe, and fill your bento box with more whole grains today.

Eat well and be well,

Renee

Whole Grain Apple and Brie Wrap

Serves 1

Ingredients

1 whole grain tortilla

1 Granny Smith apple (or another apple of your choice)

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 tablespoon honey

2 oz. brie

Directions

Thinly slice apple and sprinkle with cinnamon, set aside. Cut brie into lengthwise pieces, set aside. Drizzle honey across the whole grain tortilla and fill with apple/cinnamon slices until full. Lay the brie slices on top of the apple slices

and roll the wrap together. Cut the wrap in half, use a toothpick to hold the halves

together if needed. Enjoy.