Not-So-Secret Sauce

This recipe leaves out the crusty bread that a traditional banh mi sandwich includes, but we promise you the flavour is not lacking. It hits all the Vietnamese flavour profiles you’re expecting in this classic dish, including sweet, spicy, and sour with a punch of umami. Prep ahead! This recipe is perfect made ahead and prepped for a week’s worth of lunches that will only get better with age. Take these for lunches and you’ll be the envy of the office.

These finger-licking tacos are sure to be a Friday-night favourite or staple on taco Tuesdays. Butter beans are loaded with protein and lend a perfect creamy texture to these tacos. Baking the coleslaw adds a fun twist to this classic staple accompaniment. Serving the coleslaw right from the oven will be just the crunch these tacos need. Bean there, done that? Did you know that butter beans are also known as lima beans? You’ll find these beans labelled as both at your local natural grocery store. Try adding some extra broth to this tasty bean mixture and purée for a creamy, smooth soup.

A take on traditional Chinese-style fried rice, this fried quinoa version is packed with protein and bursting with vibrant veggies. Add some extras or stick to these healthy ingredients for takeout style you won’t soon forget. Swap out pork for ground chicken or make it plant-based by choosing a meatless ground variety. Day old? Day better! Day-old grains make for better fried “rice”; using freshly cooked grains will lead to a mushier dish. If you don’t have day-old, spread freshly cooked grains out on a sheet pan and place in fridge for a few hours to cool and dry out as much as possible.