A hearty lunch in Los Angeles is important for many reasons. What you choose to eat can make a big difference in your mood, health, and productivity. A hearty meal is satisfying and provides a mid-day boost of nutrients and energy. Gelson’s has many options, but you can also use any of our recipes. Here are seven ideas to help plan your next lunch.
Wraps/Sandwiches
Wraps and sandwiches are among the most versatile food options available. You can have one every day and make it completely different. Wholegrain bread provides a delicious mix of healthy nutrients, but you can pick any bread. You can go with a curried chickpea salad between loaves or a turkey club with fresh tomato, lettuce, and crispy bacon for a hearty sandwich.
Wraps can also be healthy; some are vegetable-based. Some are made with spinach, while others are purely lettuce or collard leaves. What you put in a wrap is up to you. Cucumbers, peppers, shredded carrots, and mixed greens are just some common ingredients. Grilled chicken and avocado make any wrap or sandwich delicious.
Salad
When it comes to salads, there are endless combinations. A salad usually starts with a mix of one or more greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula, or whatever greens you prefer). Onions, peppers, and tomatoes add flavor, making your salad even more nutrient-rich. Chickpeas are always a great addition. Add croutons for crunch, but don’t forget to consider some celery, cucumber, or zucchini.
Asparagus, snap peas, and romaine hearts are also great salad additions. And there’s no harm in adding a mix of fruits or nuts. As for the type of dressing, that’s all up to you; from light to creamy, there are so many to choose from. The final result can be whatever you want. You can mix sliced cheese with ham, pepperoni, and other meats to create a hybrid sandwich salad.
Fish
Fish is a wonderful salad addition and a great source of protein. Your options are wide open, from a can of tuna to salmon or mackerel rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These support brain function; therefore, they can help you think sharp for the second half of your workday. They taste great, whether mixed with leafy greens, penne pasta salad, or whole vegetables like broccoli, baby carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
Anything with Noodles
If you like noodles, lunch in Los Angeles can feature a wide array of options. You can have noodles in a bowl and add any veggies you like. For flavor, add a bunch of fresh herbs and spices. Soy sauce, bean shoots, and coriander can give your noodle bowl a Vietnamese flair.
However, there’s something satisfying about a bowl of noodles mixed with crispy raw vegetables. Leafy greens and peppers make it look as energizing as it is. Add some onions and chicken, and it’s an even more hearty meal. For an even more satisfying texture, feel free to add edamame, shredded carrots, or cabbage.
Soup
Soup is generally a preferred choice for the cooler months. However, in Los Angeles’s generally temperate climate, some people enjoy soup lunch much of the year. The warmth of soup is not only soothing. It can also be nutritious, especially when you add colorful vegetables, an assortment of beans, or noodles.
Carrot soup comes in many forms and delivers a soft texture. That’s not to put aside the appeal of a creamy mushroom, tomato, or mango soup. If you like a little more crunch, a tortilla soup is a versatile option incorporating hearty ingredients like chilies, garlic, tomatoes, beans, and avocado.
Tacos/Quesadillas
Tacos are a favorite among many and a great hearty lunch idea. Your options include a soft black bean taco with corn, chopped tomato, onions, and lettuce. But whether you prefer a taco with fish or meat, it can be done your way. There’s no shortage of healthy ingredients, including avocado, cilantro, apple salsa, or even butternut squash. Add some cole slaw for crunch or have a Thai-inspired walking taco with chips, veggies, and chicken (in the bag, which makes it great for eating on the go).
Rolls/Sushi
If it’s not your day for a salad or you don’t have the appetite for a wrap, rice paper rolls are a hearty alternative. Rice paper wraps are readily available. If you intend to make your own, you can mix shredded carrots, bean sprouts, avocado, vermicelli rice, ribbon cucumbers, and various diced veggies and spices and roll them up. You can add soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or lemon juice for more flavor.
Sushi isn’t only a perfect hearty and healthy lunch. It can feature so many different fillings. Rice—or plant-based wrappings frame an interior assortment of ingredients. These can include fish, avocado, and shredded veggies. Cucumber is a common ingredient. Nonetheless, you can have sushi with raw or cooked fish or meat. Whether preparing sushi yourself or searching for something new for lunch near you at Gelson’s, there are many options.
Find a Hearty Lunch in Los Angeles at Gelson’s
If these or other lunch ideas appeal to you, Gelson’s has a huge selection of ingredients and meals to-go. We also have dozens of lunch recipes you can use. Our mission is to help you eat healthier and enjoy fresh, flavorful delicacies. You can also save by joining our rewards program. Visit one of our locations or shop with us online using our delivery and pick-up services.