Healthy Lunch Veggie Bento Box

Name: Healthy Lunch Veggie Bento Box
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup steamed broccoli florets; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup edamame, shelled; 1/4 cup hummus; 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Daily Food

I love creating vibrant and delicious meals that are both healthy and satisfying. The Healthy Lunch Veggie Bento Box is a perfect blend of colorful vegetables, grains, and proteins that not only taste great but also keep me energized throughout the day. Preparing this bento box is a delightful exercise in creativity, as I can mix and match my favorite ingredients. Plus, it’s super easy to assemble, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or a grab-and-go lunch option.

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:17:34.424Z

When I first started making bento boxes, I was amazed at how customizable they are. Each component—from the grains to the veggies—offers a chance to add my personal touch. My go-to ingredients include quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and steamed broccoli, which I carefully arrange for a visually appealing meal. I also learned that using seasonal veggies heightens the flavor and nutrition.

Another tip I've picked up is to include a protein source, like edamame or chickpeas, to keep me full longer. The balance of colors and textures not only pleases the eye but also makes every bite a new experience. Trust me; once you try this, you'll want to create bento boxes for every meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful assortment that makes lunchtime exciting
Packed with nutrients to keep you energized
Perfect for meal prepping and portion control

      

The Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa serves as a fantastic base for this veggie bento box due to its high protein content and delightful texture. Known as a complete protein, quinoa includes all nine essential amino acids, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day. When cooked properly, quinoa becomes fluffy and has a slightly nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the bento box.

To achieve the ideal quinoa texture, be sure to rinse it thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove any residual saponins, which can impart a bitter taste. Cook quinoa in a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio; bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes. Once finished, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to fluff it up perfectly.

Vegetable Varieties and Preparation

The vibrant mix of vegetables not only adds color but also brings essential vitamins and minerals to your meal. Cherry tomatoes, for instance, are rich in antioxidants, and their natural sweetness complements the earthiness of quinoa. Instead of cherry tomatoes, you could use bell peppers or diced cucumbers for added crunch. Just ensure they are chopped uniformly to make them easy to eat.

Steaming the broccoli is a quick and healthy way to cook it while preserving its crispness and nutrients. I recommend steaming for around 3-5 minutes until it turns bright green and tender but still has a slight crunch. This technique not only maintains the broccoli's flavor and nutritional value but also visual appeal in your bento box.

Ingredients

Gather all your fresh ingredients before you start assembling your bento box. This will help streamline the process and ensure you don’t miss anything.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup steamed broccoli florets
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup edamame, shelled
1/4 cup hummus
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute any of the ingredients with your favorites or seasonal produce to keep your bento box fresh and exciting!

Instructions

To create your bento box, start with the base layer and arrange your ingredients in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Make it colorful!

Prepare the Base

In your bento box, start by adding the cooked quinoa as the base layer.

Add the Veggies

Next, arrange the cherry tomatoes, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and edamame around the quinoa.

Include Dips or Sauces

Place a small container of hummus in the box, and drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the veggies if desired.

Season and Serve

Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, and your Healthy Lunch Veggie Bento Box is ready to go!

Your bento box can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or lightly reheated. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different grains and dressings to keep your bento boxes exciting. Also, add proteins like grilled chicken or tofu for an even heartier meal.

Customizing Your Bento Box

Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables or proteins; the bento box can easily accommodate seasonal produce. Substituting edamame with chickpeas or black beans can provide a different flavor profile and additional protein. If you prefer a different grain, brown rice or farro can be excellent alternatives, each adding unique textures and tastes to your meal.

For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha in place of teriyaki sauce. This adjustment will introduce a new flavor dimension, making the meal exciting and satisfying to your palate. Just remember to balance stronger flavors with mild ingredients to keep everything harmonized.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Healthy Lunch Veggie Bento Box is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare all the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Keep the quinoa and vegetables in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. This allows you to assemble your bento box quickly each morning, reducing stress during busy workdays.

If you're looking to store leftovers, be mindful of how you pack the hummus and teriyaki sauce. Keep these in separate containers to prevent the veggies from becoming soggy. When you're ready to enjoy, simply combine everything in your bento box, and give it a gentle mix for a refreshing meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this bento box the night before?

Absolutely! It's a great meal prep option and stays fresh in the refrigerator overnight.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice, farro, or even couscous as an alternative base.

→ Is this bento box vegan-friendly?

Yes! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.

→ How can I make this bento box gluten-free?

Simply ensure that the sauces and seasonings used are gluten-free. Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.