As a healthy eater, I'm always "hunting and gathering" new foods to eat. I "discovered" quinoa about a year ago. In a word, it's delicious. It's easy to prepare (takes about 15-minutes cooking time) and will take on the flavor of anything you throw in it. 

This version has: black beans, mushrooms, sun dried tomatoes, peppers (spicy, red, and green), artichokes, and onions. I also added cumin and cayenne pepper. It's a modified version from Allrecipes. 

It's high in protein and fiber. And by adding all these other veggies and beans, it's a health-sensation! So, if you've never tried quinoa, go for it!

Oh yeah, since it's so filling, it can be a meal (I have it for lunch) or a side dish.

One more side benefit: One package makes a tremendous amount. So, put it in the refrigerator and warm it up in the microwave (about 45-seconds).  

Cost: Frequently, I am told that healthy eating is expensive. The ingredients for this cost about $9.00. If I were to have this for lunch, this would serve about 5 meals. That's about $1.80/meal. Yep, that beats out a fast food junk meal.

Many people attribute childhood obesity* to the crap that is being served at school. Well, here's one teacher who is fed up with school lunches and is blogging about it. She is eating the lunches, taking pictures, and discussing each lunch.

If you're a brave soul, take a look at the food our kids are eating at school.

My recommendation: Pack it. Here's a simple product that will assist - Easy Lunch Boxes.

*That's only one issue. There are many other forces at work.