Bistro Boxes
Have you noticed that the 'Bistro' theme has become quite popular? I appreciate healthy yet tasty foods, but sometimes the bistro atmosphere is associated with a higher price. And, with COVID-19, most of our go-to bistros are closed for sit-in business. Cue, homemade Bistro Boxes!
Today I'll cover:
1) Four Bistro Box Recipes.
2) What to include in a bistro box?
3) A Cost Breakdown.
FOUR BISTRO BOX RECIPES
The Basics
This one doesn't need too much explanation. White cheddar cheese and almonds go great together. Carrots are crunchy and sweet. The combo equals a tasty, simple, and filling snack!
14 Almonds
A serving of white cheddar cheese
One large carrot peeled and cut into bites
Española
If you’ve ever traveled through Spain or Italy, then you may have developed a taste for cured meats! They aren’t the healthiest of options, but worthy of indulging in now and again.
Two slices of prosciutto
Two tablespoons of goat cheese, Brie, or white cheddar cheese
A small handful of pistachios
Grapes
Charcuterie
Can you say, "Day time charcuterie board?" Even when I sit down to eat this, I can be hesitant that it will be filling enough, but the combo does not disappoint!
5 Whole wheat crackers
1 Tablespoon goat cheese
2 Tablespoons jam
1/2 cup of blackberries
1/2 an apple
A small handful of pistachios
Mediterranean
Mediterranean dishes are yummy, refreshing, and the literature shows that following a Mediterranean diet can help decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Half a cucumber
3 Mini whole-wheat pitas
2 Tablespoons hummus
3 Olives
WHAT TO PUT IN A BOX?
Have you ever wondered why Bistro Boxes include what they do? Flavor, yes, but nutrition is also a component. The goal is to be a tasty and nutritious small meal. When making your boxes, what you choose can be guided by your nutritional goals and flavor preferences.
One approach to building your boxes is to think of them in terms of macro-nutrients (macros). The definition of macro-nutrients and explanations of the primary three macros are from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) website and Fitness Nutrition Specialist Manual, respectively:
“Macro” is a Greek word that means “large,” which, in the context of nutrition, relates to the size of the nutrient and its importance in energy balance. In basic terms, this balance can be defined as “energy in” (calories taken into the body through food and drink) versus “energy out” (calories being used in the body for daily energy requirements). Energy (or calories) is the core of nutrition and health, and the foundation for this energy comes from the three macro-nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
-Tiffani Bachus, American Council of Exercise
1. Fat
Fats or 'lipids' serve many essential functions in the human body, including providing a readily available source of stored energy, insulation, protection of vital organs and bones, a means for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, a precursor to hormones, and cell membrane structure!
2. Protein
Protein and specifically high-protein diets can be associated with muscle gain, weight loss, and improved health.
3. Carbs
Carbs sometimes get a bad rep for being associated with gaining weight and even obesity; however, carbs are a necessary part of our day to day life. Consider integrating carbs into your diet from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables such as oats, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, zucchini, and oats. These types of fiber rich carbohydrates can help you be fuller longer, improve blood sugar control, and keep you healthier!
A COST BREAKDOWN
Saving money can feel great, and these Bistro Boxes are a great place to start. My favorite Starbucks Bistro Boxes range from $4.95 to $5.25. Where do my homemade Bistro Box's land in comparison? The photo below shows my whole grocery store cart, which came to $67.45. The ingredients for these boxes totaled only $32.88! Let's break it down.
The ingredients for the above four recipes are enough for approximately 14 full bistro boxes. When broken down, this means that each bistro box would cost only $2.34! I'm not sure about you, but saving 50% and fine-tuning the flavors to your liking is a win-win. Imagine the kinds of trips you could start saving for or the new plants you could get for the casa! I hope you enjoy these boxes, and please let me know what you think if you try these out!
