As is usual with June, I become absent at Not Exactly Bento as work becomes super busy. And super busy it has been. But so fun. With mid-July, I’m finally finding a bit of time to come back and say hello.
I didn’t even worry with packing bentos in June too much. It was a mainly eat out month with a few spots of eating at home. I packed a few bentos just so I wouldn’t “lose my touch” so to speak. Though this first bento leaves alot to be desired.
When so busy, it is sometimes hard for me to think of quick things to cook. In came Albertsons to the save this past month. They have pork chops and steaks they will pre-marinate for you. During June they ran a big sale on these, and I stocked up. And they become my meals in June. I brought them all home, cooked them that weekend, and then froze. Popped one out for lunch or dinner when needed, and voila, near instant meal. Was so easy and helpful. In bento 303, a pre-seasoned pork chop is paired with Pasta Roni (herb variety) and some steamed vegetables.
Bento 304 was better planned. A box of black beans and rice made a tasty side dish to the pre-seasoned pork chop along with grilled zucchini and hard boiled egg. I also packed orange slices a bit of chocolate and a salad. The only problem with this lunch is that it was WAY too much food. I didn’t end up eating the salad portion. I brought that home for lunch along with the orange slices. A review of the black beans and rice will come on a Tuesday in the not so distant future.
That looks so good! The yolk on your eggs is so bright yellow. I bet it’s cuz yours are fresher than mine. Or something. Mmm. I think that box might actually be bigger than the one I have… I can’t imagine cramming salad in there. But I’m a piggy. We knew that.
I love them both Jenn!
I’m glad to see that summer lulls in bento-ing are not mine alone. Your post encourages me to make one for tomorrow’s lunch. Thanks. It may not be pretty but the habit needs to be made again.
I like the way they look. Even the less spectacular one looks balanced and that’s a great tip about the store pre-marinating the meat for you. I had forgotten that my store could do it too.
Have a safe and cool remainder of your summer. I look forward to your next bento posts.