It's almost August and here at RUSSH, we are still all mostly working from home. This means lunch ideas are scarce and most of the time I'm resorting to leftovers or stuff on crackers. Because of this, most days look the same and we're at the point where spicing things up in the kitchen is both the last thing we want to be doing, and the only thing left to do. In spirit of this, we've rounded up five easy lunch time recipes if you're in the same position and cannot look at another Vita-Wheat again.

Roasted Tomato and White Bean Stew

A hearty and healthy update to the humble beans on toast. This elevated version sees the classic components get the rustic treatment, sans any additives. Make ahead and store in the fridge for the only kind of meal prep we're actually interested in (do not look at me, grilled chicken and broccoli) for easy reheating/eating.

Yum Nua

If you have old herbs lying around in the fridge and potentially leftover beef, this fresh Vietnamese salad is a far more zesty way to consume vegetables. Forget the kale and sub for crunchy cucumber, tomatoes and fragrant herbs. Another good make-ahead option should you assemble and have leftovers.

Spicy Rice Bowl with Egg

A comforting option that comes together in minutes. If you are somehow now acquainted with the sheer joy of a runny egg and rice, let this be your intro. Sriracha, lime, scallions and soy give it a much needed upgrade and any leftover rice can be reheated the next day, too.

Grilled Cheese with Apples and Apple Butter

Don't knock it till you try it. As a kid my dad always made me apple slices with sharp cheddar as a snack, and this is a carby play on the classic. Perfect for the colder months or when you simply feel like you need a little extra joy, this one is the perfect solution.

Japanese Pancake

If you're looking to take care of your gut, this vegetable-packed Japanese pancake is the ticket. Filled with gut loving cabbage, sweet potato and ginger, this guy promotes motility, soothes and heals intestinal lining and boosts immunity, as well as miso and kimchi to nourish our intestinal flora, it’s ideal not only for breakfast but for any meal of the day.