Which lunch menu reflects proper menu planning principles?

Which lunch menu reflects proper menu planning principles?

• A. Steamed haddock, rice, roasted cauliflower, vanilla frozen yogurt with fresh pineapple
• B. Baked pork chop, sautéed broccoli, rice pilaf, vanilla frozen yogurt with strawberries
• C. Grilled chicken breast, mashed potatoes, steamed parsnips, lemon sorbet
• D. Meatballs, tiny whole potatoes, brussels sprouts, fresh bing cherries

Answer: (B)

A balanced lunch provides all five major components—protein, vegetables, grains, fruit, and dairy—while favoring lean protein and moderate-fat, moderate-sugar choices. The menu with a baked pork chop, broccoli, rice pilaf, and vanilla frozen yogurt with strawberries fits best because it includes lean protein, a non-starchy vegetable, a grain, a fruit, and a dairy dessert. This combination supports satiety, calcium intake, fiber, and energy without relying on heavy fats or overly sweet desserts. The other options either miss one of these groups or rely on heavier preparations or desserts that don’t align as well with nutrient balance.

A balanced lunch provides all five major components—protein, vegetables, grains, fruit, and dairy—while favoring lean protein and moderate-fat, moderate-sugar choices. The menu with a baked pork chop, broccoli, rice pilaf, and vanilla frozen yogurt with strawberries fits best because it includes lean protein, a non-starchy vegetable, a grain, a fruit, and a dairy dessert. This combination supports satiety, calcium intake, fiber, and energy without relying on heavy fats or overly sweet desserts. The other options either miss one of these groups or rely on heavier preparations or desserts that don’t align as well with nutrient balance.