Healthy Lunch Hummus Veggie Bento Box

Name: Healthy Lunch Hummus Veggie Bento Box
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons tahini; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Water as needed; 1 cup sliced cucumbers; 1 cup carrot sticks; 1 cup bell pepper strips; 1 avocado, sliced

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Favorites

When I’m looking for a nutritious and satisfying lunch option, this Healthy Lunch Hummus Veggie Bento Box ticks all the boxes for me. It's vibrant, full of crisp vegetables, and packed with protein, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any day. The layers of flavors and textures make each bite a delightful experience. Not only does it keep me energized, but it also gives me a chance to be creative with whatever I have on hand. I love that I can customize it easily to suit my taste or dietary needs.

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:47:34.758Z

I remember the first time I packed a bento box for lunch; it was both fun and fulfilling! I always appreciated how the variety of colors and flavors made lunchtime exciting. With this healthy hummus veggie bento, I discovered how versatile hummus can be. It not only serves as a delicious dip but also acts as a base for many of my favorite veggies.

Moreover, I learned that including a mix of textures, such as crunchy carrots, creamy avocado, and nutty chickpeas, creates a balanced meal that I genuinely look forward to. The combination not only fills me up but also keeps my energy levels consistent throughout the day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Loaded with nutrients from fresh veggies
Customizable based on what you have on hand
Great for meal prep or a quick lunch on the go

The Role of Hummus

Hummus serves as a flavorful base for this bento box, bringing together the earthy taste of chickpeas with the creaminess of tahini. The garlic and lemon juice add a zesty punch, which enhances the overall depth of flavor. Plus, hummus is a fantastic source of protein, making it an excellent choice for a well-rounded meal. To avoid a grainy texture, make sure to blend the hummus until completely smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time if necessary.

When preparing the hummus, consider incorporating additional spices to customize the flavor to your liking. For instance, a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can add a delightful warmth. If you're looking to boost the nutritional profile, blending in a handful of spinach or kale can enhance the color and add extra vitamins. Experimenting with different flavors keeps your meal exciting and is a great way to use up produce.

Choosing and Preparing Veggies

When selecting your vegetables, opt for a variety of colors and textures to make the bento box visually appealing and nutritionally balanced. Crisp cucumbers add hydration, while carrot sticks provide sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and bring a touch of brightness to your meal. Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies; snap peas, cherry tomatoes, or radishes can be great alternatives.

For best results, ensure that all vegetables are cut into uniform sizes. This will help them to be evenly packed in your bento box and makes for a more pleasant eating experience. I recommend slicing the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. If you want to prepare it in advance, consider sprinkling it lightly with lemon juice to help it retain its vibrant color.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

For meal prepping, you can make the hummus in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. The flavors will even develop more depth as it sits. The cut veggies can also last for three to four days when stored properly in the fridge, making it convenient for a week of healthy lunches. Just be sure to keep the hummus separate until you're ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

When it's time to serve, consider adding some whole-grain pita chips or rice crackers on the side for some extra crunch. Alternatively, a sprinkle of seeds or nuts on top of the hummus before serving can introduce another layer of texture as well as healthy fats and protein. This bento box not only nourishes you but also offers a delightful variety of flavors, making lunchtime something to look forward to.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For the Hummus

1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons tahini
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Water as needed

For the Veggies

1 cup sliced cucumbers
1 cup carrot sticks
1 cup bell pepper strips
1 avocado, sliced

You can also add any other vegetables or dips you like.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your bento box:

Make the Hummus

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water as necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Pack the Veggies

Arrange the sliced cucumbers, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, and avocado in a bento box or any container.

Serve

Add a generous portion of the hummus in the center and enjoy your healthy lunch!

Feel free to mix and match your veggies and hummus flavors!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding spices like cumin or paprika to the hummus.

Variations on the Theme

Feel free to switch up the protein in the hummus by adding roasted red peppers or olives for a Mediterranean twist. If you're in the mood for a spicier kick, a dash of harissa or sriracha can elevate the flavor profile considerably. You can also make this dish vegan-friendly by replacing olive oil with aquafaba, the liquid from the chickpeas, to create a lighter version of hummus.

To cater to different dietary needs, you could utilize white beans or lentils in place of chickpeas for the hummus. Each legume offers a different taste and texture, ensuring you can design a flavor that suits your palate. This bento box recipe is forgiving and encourages creativity with whatever ingredients you've got on hand.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your hummus comes out too thick or chunky, don't fret! Adding water slowly while blending can help achieve the desired smoothness. Likewise, if the flavor is too bland, a little extra lemon juice or salt can brighten it up. Always taste your hummus as you go; this way, you know exactly how to adjust it to suit your preferences.

Another common issue is browning avocados. To combat this, keep them whole until ready to serve or use a container that minimizes exposure to air. If you're packing this bento box to go, consider using a silicone cup to keep the avocado separate until it's time to eat, preserving its fresh green color and creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the hummus ahead of time?

Absolutely! The hummus can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container.

→ What if I don't have tahini?

You can substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter or simply omit it for a lighter hummus.

→ How can I add protein to this meal?

You can include hard-boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or additional chickpeas.

→ What other vegetables work well?

Broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas are great additions to this bento box!