Lunch on the Run (or for the Run...?)

In my last post, I touted the benefits of packing a workday lunch over purchasing one. Below, I share a wholesome, healthy, and filling recipe that lasted me throughout the work week last week

There are several benefits to the recipe below. First, you can make it Sunday evening and simply dish it up for the rest of the week, so it's fast and easy. Second, it's not only tasty and satisfying, but also very good for you. It includes the following good-for-you foods:

Chicken
According to runnersworld.com, chicken contains not only lean protein and Niacin (a B-Vitamin), but also amino acids that can help rebuild muscle tissues. The protein will also help keep you feeling full.

Almonds
Almonds are nutritional powerhouses, packed "with vitamin E, magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium. One serving can help reduce muscle damage, strengthen your bones, and boost energy," according to Women's Running. Almonds are so nutritious, in fact, that they are one of 15 foods Runner's World lists as "The Best Foods for Runners," citing the fact that almonds can help reduce cholesterol-levels, as well as the fact that the Vitamin E found in almonds is not often included in vitamin supplements.

Celery
This low-calorie vegetable can act as an anti-inflammatory, and also provides many antioxidants.

Dried Cranberries
These berries may look small, but they pack a powerful punch. Cranberries can help support a healthy urinary tract, and are also full of phenol, an antioxidant. To learn more, visit www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-for-runners/why-cranberries-are-so-good-for-your-health?page=single.

Red Grapes
As juicy as they are, grapes can help keep you hydrated, and contain Vitamins K and C.

I'm still looking for an appropriate, catchy name for this recipe, but for now, we'll go with...
 
Chicken Salad

Ingredients:
2 cans lean canned chicken, drained
sliced almonds, to taste
dried cranberries, to taste.
grapes, sliced in half, to taste
1 or 2 stalks celery, chopped
light mayonnaise with olive oil

Procedure
1. Combine chicken, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, sliced grapes, and celery pieces until well mixed.
2. Stir in mayonnaise, using only enough to coat the dry ingredients.

Presto! You are done. Store chicken salad in the refrigerator and enjoy throughout the week.