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Classic Chicken Teriyaki Bento
Classic Chicken Teriyaki Bento is a delightful and satisfying dish that features succulent chicken glazed with a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. It’s perfect for a bento box, as it is not only delicious but also visually appealing and great for meal prep. This dish combines tender chicken, steamed rice, and a variety of vibrant vegetables, creating a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 2 pieces (about 1 lb) |
| Teriyaki sauce | 1/3 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Honey or brown sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp |
| Steamed rice | 2 cups |
| Broccoli florets | 1 cup |
| Carrots (sliced) | 1 cup |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tbsp (for garnish) |
| Green onions (sliced) | 1 for garnish |
Cooking Steps:
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and glazed with sauce.
- Prepare vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli and carrots until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble: Slice the cooked chicken and add it to a bento box along with the steamed rice, broccoli, and carrots.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken and vegetables. Serve and enjoy your delicious Classic Chicken Teriyaki Bento!
2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Bento
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Bento is a revitalizing and nutritious dish that packs a medley of vibrant flavors while being packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a bento box, this salad includes fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a satisfying meal prep option.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Quinoa | 1 cup |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Cherry tomatoes (halved) | 1 cup |
| Cucumber (diced) | 1 medium |
| Red bell pepper (diced) | 1 medium |
| Red onion (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Kalamata olives (sliced) | 1/3 cup |
| Feta cheese (crumbled) | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
Cooking Steps:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine the quinoa and water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to combine.
- Pack the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad into your bento box, enjoy!
3. DIY Sushi Rolls Bento
DIY Sushi Rolls Bento is a fun and creative dish that allows you to enjoy the art of sushi-making at home. Perfect for a bento box, these sushi rolls are customizable with your favorite fillings such as fresh vegetables, seafood, or tofu and can be served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for a flavorful accompaniment.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sushi rice | 2 cups |
| Water | 2 1/2 cups |
| Rice vinegar | 1/3 cup |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Nori (seaweed sheets) | 4 sheets |
| Cucumber (julienned) | 1 medium |
| Carrot (julienned) | 1 medium |
| Avocado (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Cooked shrimp or crab meat (optional) | 1 cup (if using) |
| Soy sauce | for serving |
| Wasabi | for serving |
| Pickled ginger | for serving |
Cooking Steps:
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine sushi rice and water, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until water is absorbed. Let it cool slightly.
- In a small saucepan, heat rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Pour this mixture over the sushi rice and mix gently to combine.
- Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top edge. Arrange the cucumber, carrot, avocado, and shrimp (if using) horizontally across the rice.
- Using the mat, roll the nori away from you, applying gentle pressure to form a tight roll. Seal the edge with a little water.
- Slice the sushi roll into bite-sized pieces and pack them into your bento box. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side. Enjoy your DIY Sushi Rolls Bento!
4. Veggie and Hummus Bento
Veggie and Hummus Bento is a vibrant and healthy option for a lunch box, packed with colorful fresh vegetables, creamy hummus, and a variety of fun dippers. This dish is not only nutritious but also customizable, allowing you to choose your favorite vegetables and hummus flavor. Perfect for adults and kids alike, it’s a great way to enjoy a balanced meal while keeping it fun and appealing.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hummus | 1 cup |
| Carrot (cut into sticks) | 2 medium |
| Cucumber (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Bell pepper (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Celery (cut into sticks) | 2 medium |
| Radishes (halved) | 1 cup |
| Pita bread (cut into wedges) | 1 medium |
| Olive oil | for drizzling |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
Cooking Steps:
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into sticks or slices as described.
- Arrange the veggies in your bento box, making sure to create a colorful display that’s visually appealing.
- Place the hummus in a small container within the bento box for easy dipping.
- Add pita bread wedges on the side, and drizzle a bit of olive oil over the veggies if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Seal the bento box and it’s ready to go. Enjoy your Veggie and Hummus Bento!
5. Breakfast Bento With Hard-Boiled Eggs
Breakfast Bento With Hard-Boiled Eggs is a convenient and nutritious option that’s perfect for busy mornings. This delightful bento features protein-packed hard-boiled eggs paired with a variety of breakfast staples such as fruits, nuts, and whole-grain items, making it not only satisfying but also easy to prepare and transport.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hard-boiled eggs | 2 large |
| Whole grain toast | 1 slice |
| Almonds (or any nuts) | 1/4 cup |
| Sliced strawberries | 1/2 cup |
| Blueberries | 1/2 cup |
| Baby carrots | 1/2 cup |
| Honey or maple syrup | for drizzling |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
Cooking Steps:
- Start by boiling the eggs; place them in a pot, cover with water, and boil for 9-12 minutes. After cooking, cool them in an ice bath, then peel.
- Toast the slice of whole grain bread until it’s golden and crispy, then cut it into quarters.
- Arrange the hard-boiled eggs, toast pieces, fruits, and baby carrots neatly in the bento box.
- Add a small container of honey or maple syrup for drizzling over the fruit or toast, and season the eggs with salt and pepper to taste.
- Seal the bento box, and it’s ready to enjoy!
6. Turkey and Cheese Wrap Bento
Turkey and Cheese Wrap Bento is a fantastic and portable meal option ideal for lunch boxes or picnics. This bento features a delicious turkey and cheese wrap accompanied by crunchy vegetables and a revitalizing dip, providing a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and flavor that’s perfect for any time of day.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole wheat tortilla | 1 large |
| Sliced turkey breast | 4 ounces |
| Sliced cheese (cheddar or Swiss) | 2 slices |
| Lettuce leaves | 2-3 leaves |
| Sliced cucumber | 1/2 cup |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1/2 cup |
| Hummus or ranch dressing | 2 tablespoons |
| Baby bell peppers (sliced) | 1/2 cup |
Cooking Steps:
- Lay the whole wheat tortilla flat and layer the sliced turkey, cheese, and lettuce in the center.
- Roll the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to create a wrap. Slice the wrap into bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the wrap pieces in the bento box alongside the sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and baby bell peppers.
- Include a small container of hummus or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Seal the bento box, and it’s ready for lunch!
7. Asian Noodle Salad Bento
Asian Noodle Salad Bento is a revitalizing and vibrant dish perfect for lunch boxes or as a light meal. This bento features cold noodles tossed with fresh vegetables, a zesty dressing, and protein options such as grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp, making it a versatile and satisfying choice for any occasion.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice noodles | 2 cups |
| Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu | 4 ounces |
| Shredded carrots | 1/2 cup |
| Sliced bell peppers | 1/2 cup |
| Cucumber, julienned | 1/2 cup |
| Edamame (shelled) | 1/2 cup |
| Green onions, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey or maple syrup | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili flakes (optional) | To taste |
Cooking Steps:
- Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and chili flakes to create the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, cooked protein, shredded carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, edamame, and green onions.
- Drizzle the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and pack the salad in a bento box for a delicious and healthy lunch!
8. Caprese Skewers Bento
Caprese Skewers Bento is a delightful and colorful dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad in a portable format. Perfect for lunch boxes, these skewers feature fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze, making them a fresh and tasty option that’s quick to assemble.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh mozzarella balls | 8 ounces |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 pint |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 small bunch |
| Balsamic glaze | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Skewers | 8-10 |
Cooking Steps:
- Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly.
- On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball, repeating until the skewer is filled.
- Drizzle the assembled skewers with olive oil and balsamic glaze; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the skewers in a bento box, either standing up or laid flat, and enjoy this fresh and elegant dish at lunchtime!
9. Fruit and Yogurt Parfait Bento
Fruit and Yogurt Parfait Bento is a rejuvenating and nutritious option that brings together layers of creamy yogurt, vibrant fruits, and crunchy granola in a convenient, portable format. Perfect for breakfast or a satisfying snack, this colorful parfait is not only easy to make but also customizable with your favorite fruits and toppings, making it a delightful addition to any bento box.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | 2 cups |
| Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) | 2 cups |
| Granola | 1 cup |
| Honey or maple syrup | 2 tablespoons |
| Chia seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Mint leaves (optional) | For garnish |
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup until well combined.
- In your bento box or serving cups, layer the yogurt mixture, followed by a layer of mixed berries, then sprinkle granola on top. Repeat the layers until the container is filled.
- Sprinkle chia seeds over the top layer for added nutrition and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Seal the bento box and enjoy this delicious and healthy parfait on the go!
10. Taco-Inspired Bento
Taco-Inspired Bento is a fun and flavorful meal option that encapsulates all the vibrant components of a classic taco in a portable bento format. It’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, featuring protein-rich fillings, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings, allowing you to create a customizable meal that’s both satisfying and convenient.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked ground beef or turkey | 1 cup |
| Taco seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Small tortillas | 4 |
| Shredded lettuce | 1 cup |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) | 1 cup |
| Avocado, sliced | 1 |
| Salsa | For drizzling |
| Sour cream (optional) | For serving |
| Fresh cilantro (optional) | For garnish |
Cooking Steps:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned, then add the taco seasoning and a splash of water, cooking until well combined and heated through.
- Warm the small tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- Assemble your bento box by adding layers of cooked meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
- Place the sliced avocado and a small container of salsa and sour cream in the bento box.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and freshness. Seal the bento box and enjoy your taco-inspired meal!
11. Pesto Pasta Salad Bento
Pesto Pasta Salad Bento is a vibrant and invigorating meal option that combines the bright flavors of pesto with al dente pasta and an array of colorful vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or picnic, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal packed with fresh ingredients that can be easily customized to suit your taste.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne) | 2 cups, cooked |
| Pesto sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved |
| Bell peppers (mixed colors) | 1 cup, diced |
| Cucumber | 1, diced |
| Mozzarella balls | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Lemon juice (optional) | For drizzling |
Cooking Steps:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the pesto sauce, mixing until evenly coated.
- Add in the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil, stirring gently to combine.
- Drizzle with olive oil, and add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste, mixing well.
- Pack the pasta salad into your bento box, and enjoy this colorful, flavorful meal on the go!