St. Patrick’s Day is almost here and we’ve got green on the brain, for the obvious reason. Green is a fantastic diet color (along with all the others) so with the season among us let’s unpack what’s so great about green! 

Why are green fruits and vegetables so good? First, all produce offers the benefit of fiber, which can help maintain digestive health and help keep you full for longer. Green produce also contains chlorophyll, which is a phytonutrient. Phytonutrients can help reduce inflammation in the body and help protect against oxidative stress. These phytonutrients also help boost your immunity and may help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Leafy greens also contain important vitamins and minerals for protecting bone health, such as magnesium, calcium, and vitamin K. Green fruits and vegetables provide a wide range of benefits, so pack a green lunch today and you might find the gold at the end of the rainbow!

Green Lunch Ideas

Try packing an all-green lunch with these leprechaun-inspired meals!

1) Spinach pasta with pesto, sauteed broccoli, and shredded chicken, a side of sauteed zucchini, and granny smith apple slices for dessert

2) Spinach tortilla with romaine lettuce, sliced turkey, green bell pepper slices, and cucumber with a light drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for dressing. Pair this wrap with a few slices of sage derby cheese, green grapes, and kiwi slices!

3) Green bell pepper halves stuffed with a mix of tofu chorizo, cilantro lime rice, guacamole, and queso fresco crumbles. Pair these vegetarian taco boats with a side of sugar snap peas and a juicy green pear.