Trim Healthy Mama Lunch Ideas with DIY Protein Boxes

Do you need SUPER quick and easy meal ideas for THM? Sometimes simple, easy, and delicious is the best way to stick to the plan 100%. I've updated this post with some brand new photos – and there's an “E” version of this worksheet available now!

I used to be a fan of those Protein boxes that Starbucks sells – you know the ones that have hardboiled eggs in them? There are some yummy things in those boxes, but if you eat them as-is they are definitely NOT on plan for THM.

Instead of buying one of those boxes and trying to get my kids to eat most of the not-slimming food in there (or wasting it), I came up with my own quick and easy THM “S” boxes I can make at home. They are filling, delicious, less expensive, and perfect for making 3 or 4 at a time for the week ahead!

If you don't have a spare moment, you could even buy already cooked boiled eggs or pre-cooked chicken at the grocery store to save even more time. I'm telling you, these boxes are a lifesaver and they've become a go-to around here for easy breakfasts, lunches, and snacks!

These come together in under 5 minutes, and they are so quick and easy! 

I use these Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, and make three or four boxes at a time. I'm seriously loving this on-the-go lunch idea, and my kids are loving it, too! 
 

I have more of my favorite bento-style boxes linked here:
Jen's Favorite DIY Protein Box Containers

Make it your own: 

I go into detail on how to make these below, but I also put together a free printable worksheet with tons of mix-and-match protein box bonus ideas to help you out – you can scroll to the bottom of this post for your free copy!

All you have to do is choose a protein from the worksheet, then one item from each category listed. 

My kids LOVE these boxes, and they are so deliciously customizable you could have different flavors and combinations all month long!

• I choose one protein, like 2-3 slices of deli meat or a hard-boiled egg.
• Then I add 1/8 to 1/4 cup of nuts, seeds, or cheese.
• Then I mix and match two 1/4 cup portions of berries or veggies.
• Last, I add 1 serving of a special low-carb treat, like Lily's or THM's Skinny Chocolate.

That's it! Simple and satisfying! The printable worksheet has lots more ideas, but you can get the general idea and come up with something awesome! I'd love to hear from you if you try this out!