We know you picture your ideal afternoon meal as a leisurely lunch, prepared by a loved one, followed by a siesta and possibly a massage. In reality, come midday you find yourself screaming down the office hallway toward the microwave with a sweating frozen entrée box in one hand and a deadline report in the other. Here are five natural meals to cache in your freezer for the busiest workdays.
Amy's Indian Vegetable Korma
Excellent, authentic-tasting, mostly organic veggie lunch, without the danger of the usual Indian buffet coma. The curry, with roasted spices, raisins, and slivered almonds, is fab.
Per serving: 300 cal, 12g fat, 4g sat fat, 0mg chol, 9g protein, 41g carb, 680mg sodium
Ethnic Gourmet Pad Thai with Tofu
Thailand is a 12-hour flight; your fridge a few steps away. Carrots, tofu, and scallions in a savory Thai sauce make this entrée a winner.
Per serving: 420 cal, 8g fat, 2g sat fat, 0mg chol, 13g protein, 73g carb, 720mg sodium
Linda McCartney Butternut Squash Ravioli
Butternut squash is always a delicious filling for ravioli, and the buttery sage sauce spiked with roasted pecans puts this meal over the top.
Per serving: 470 cal, 14g fat, 5g sat fat, 10mg chol, 17g protein, 69g carb, 420mg sodium
Michael Angelo's Lasagna with Meat Sauce
Mangia! This meaty entrée will satisfy even the most voracious eaters. Savor vine-ripened tomatoes, garlic, and Romano cheese.
Per serving: 300 cal, 11g fat, 6g sat fat, 55mg chol, 23g protein, 30g carb, 570mg sodium