Souper Freak

I’m always on the lookout for simple, healthy, transportable and inexpensive lunch ideas to pack up and take to the office. I know that those of you who work in the SF Financial District are feeling me (how easy is it to spend $15 on a basic lunch and beverage?!). And so, voila! I bring you my first “Souper Freak Lunch Lesson” with a delicious suggestion for your lunch box.

If you shop at Trader Joe’s you might have seen their Cumin and Chili Chickpeas pouch. They’re actually really good on their own — the chickpeas have a great texture and the curry-flavored sauce is flavorful and light — but they’re even better if you doctor them up a bit. You can whip up this recipe in less than five minutes:

EASY CHICKPEAS AND MINT

Makes enough for two lunches

Ingredients:

One package Trader Joe’s Cumin and Chili Chickpeas

1 small handful fresh mint leaves, washed and chopped

1 large handful fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and chopped

1-2 tablespoons finely diced shallot (or red onion)

Generous sprinkling of goat or feta cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper

Fresh lemon

Mango (or other) chutney

Fresh sandwich roll or cooked brown rice, cous cous, or other grain

Steps:

1. Combine chickpeas, mint, spinach, shallot, and cheese. Mix!

2. Finish with a splash of olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper.

3. At lunch time, put filling into toasted sandwich roll or atop a mound of brown rice. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon and a dollop of chutney.

4. Admire what a nice, fancy lunch you have and how much money is still in your wallet!

Have an easy lunch-time idea of your own? Send me your favorite lunch recipes to be posted here! You can be famous!