Let’s be honest here — I’m no gourmet chef. Sure, on the weekends my wife and I love to host friends for brunch and put together a beautiful spread, but most of the time I’m a very utilitarian cook. Here’s how I throw things together quickly while getting approval from my nutritionist:

Fresh and delicious

Have time to hit the store on your way home? Try these ideas.

• A slice of avocado on toast with a little pepper is delicious and satisfying
• Slices of tomato with a sprinkle of olive oil, feta cheese, or basil
• Yogurt topped with seeds and fruit is a great treat, just watch out for hidden sugar
• Cantaloupe can be eaten alone or part of a delicious fruit salad
• I slice up tortillas, drizzle them with oil and bake them for chips that are fast and a little healthier

On the go

You’re hungry and in a rush. Toss these in your bag for later.

• Grab a banana and you’re on your way
• Pack a bag full of edamame
• Peanut butter pretzels don’t seem very healthy, but they’re great at keeping me from getting hangry
• I love the sweetness and satisfying crunch of baby carrots
• Peanuts and dried fruit are tasty and packed with protein

Safe to stock up on

We’ve all come home ravenous with hunger only to realized we haven’t gone grocery shopping in weeks. All is not lost.

• Popcorn is healthy and delicious; I love to add a little spice
• Keep some shrimp in your freezer for a fancy snack
• Bagel from the freezer + tomato sauce + spices is totally acceptable as a mini pizza
• White bean spread – if you have a can of white beans, spices, and a stove, you’re all set
• Roasted chick peas – same as above, but a can of chick peas

Easy recipes

Online recipes manage to make everything as complicated as possible. Here are a few that stick with the basics.

• Sweet potato fries
• Tofu bites
• Kale chips
• Banana oatmeal walnut cookies
• Zucchini sticks