The 15 Recipes We Always Make for Work Lunches

Packing a lunch for work can feel like a chore. Maybe you’re tired of the same old sandwich, or perhaps the idea of prepping meals in advance seems overwhelming. But fear not, fellow lunchbox warriors!

Here are 15 delicious and easy recipes that will transform your midday routine. From protein-packed salads to flavorful wraps and satisfying bowls, these meals are perfect for busy schedules and will keep you fueled throughout the workday.

1. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A Vegetarian Powerhouse

This hearty and flavorful salad is a vegetarian powerhouse that’s perfect for a satisfying midday meal. To create this delicious dish, follow these simple steps:

Gather your ingredients: Canned chickpeas, chopped cucumber, red onion, bell peppers of your choice (red, yellow, or orange for vibrant color), crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Combine the chickpeas and vegetables: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas with chopped cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers.
Add the cheese and olives: Crumble feta cheese over the salad and add Kalamata olives for a salty and briny flavor.
Dress it up: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

Enjoy this protein-packed salad on its own or pair it with whole-wheat pita bread or crackers for a complete lunch.

2. Asian Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing: A Sweet and Savory Symphony

Shred cooked chicken breast and toss it with shredded vegetables for a refreshing and flavorful salad. Here’s how to create this Asian-inspired lunch option:

Prepare the chicken: Poach, bake, or grill boneless, skinless chicken breasts until cooked through. Shred the chicken with two forks or use a meat chopper.
Shred the veggies: Grab some colorful vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and red bell pepper. Shred them into thin strips using a sharp knife or a food processor attachment.
Add the aromatics: Finely chop some fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Toast some peanuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn. Roughly chop the toasted peanuts.
Create the peanut dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, a touch of honey, sesame oil (optional), and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Assemble the salad: Combine the shredded chicken, vegetables, chopped cilantro, and toasted peanuts in a large bowl. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

This salad is a satisfying balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. Pack it in an airtight container and enjoy it chilled for a refreshing midday meal.

3. Quinoa Power Bowl with Black Beans and Corn: A Complete Meal in a Bowl

This protein-packed quinoa power bowl is a complete meal in itself, making it a perfect choice for busy workdays. Here’s how to create this satisfying and nutritious lunch:

Cook the quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold running water. In a saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with water or vegetable broth according to package instructions. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the quinoa is cooked through and fluffy.
Prepare the black beans: Rinse and drain canned black beans. If desired, you can mash some of the beans for a textural contrast.
Chop the veggies: Dice red onion for a bit of bite. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.
Assemble the bowl: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and divide it between two bowls. Top each bowl with black beans, corn kernels, diced red onion, and sliced avocado.
Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a touch of honey (optional) for a simple and flavorful cilantro lime dressing. Drizzle the dressing over each bowl and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

This dish offers a delicious blend of textures and tastes, making it a satisfying and well-rounded lunch option.

4. Turkey and Havarti Wrap with Pesto: A Savory and Portable Lunch

This flavorful wrap is a great option for a quick and easy lunch on the go.

Gather your ingredients: Whole-wheat tortilla, pesto (store-bought or homemade), sliced turkey breast, crisp lettuce leaves, diced tomato, red onion, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Spread the pesto: Lay a whole-wheat tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of pesto on one half of the tortilla, leaving a one-inch border around the edges.
Layer the fillings: Place sliced turkey breast on top of the pesto. Add a layer of crisp lettuce leaves, followed by diced tomato and red onion. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for added flavor.
Roll it up tight: Carefully fold the tortilla in half over the fillings. Starting from one end, roll the tortilla tightly to create a secure wrap. Slice the wrap in half for easier handling.

This protein-packed wrap is a delicious and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect for busy schedules.

5. Hummus Veggie Wrap with Falafel: A Vegetarian Delight

This vegetarian wrap is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying lunch choice. Here’s what you’ll need:

The base: Whole-wheat wrap
The spread: Hummus (choose your favorite flavor)
The protein: Falafel balls (pre-made or homemade)
The veggies: Chopped cucumber, shredded carrots, and crumbled feta cheese
The extras: A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of dried oregano (optional)
Assemble the wrap: Spread a generous layer of hummus on a whole-wheat tortilla. Top with falafel balls, chopped cucumber, shredded carrots, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano for an extra burst of flavor.

Roll the wrap tightly and enjoy a delicious and protein-packed vegetarian lunch!

6. Leftover Chicken Stir-Fry with Brown Rice: Repurpose Your Dinner into Lunch Magic

Did you make a big batch of stir-fry for dinner? Don’t let those leftovers go to waste! Here’s how to transform them into a delicious and satisfying lunch:

Reheat the stir-fry: Heat a pan or skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of soy sauce or vegetable broth to prevent sticking. Add leftover stir-fry vegetables and cooked chicken breast to the pan and heat through until warmed.
Prepare the brown rice: Cook brown rice according to package instructions for a healthy and fiber-rich base. Alternatively, you can use leftover brown rice from dinner.
Assemble your lunch: Pack the reheated stir-fry vegetables and chicken in an airtight container. Portion out cooked brown rice into another container or combine it directly with the stir-fry for a one-bowl lunch.

This quick and easy lunch option utilizes leftovers efficiently, saving you time and money.

7. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese: Classic Comfort Food for a Chilly Day

This classic comfort food combo is the perfect way to warm you up on a chilly workday. Here’s how to bring a taste of home to your lunchbox:

For the creamy tomato soup: In a saucepan, sauté diced onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add chopped canned tomatoes (undrained) and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, then use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to create a creamy consistency.
For the grilled cheese: Spread mayonnaise or butter on two slices of whole-wheat bread. Layer your favorite cheese (cheddar, swiss, or mozzarella) in between the bread slices. Heat a pan or griddle over medium heat and cook the grilled cheese until golden brown and melty on both sides.

Pack the creamy tomato soup in an insulated container to keep it warm and enjoy it alongside your delicious grilled cheese for a satisfying and comforting lunch break.

8. Caprese Pasta Salad: A Light and Refreshing Summertime Delight

This light and refreshing Caprese pasta salad is perfect for a warm spring or summer day. Here’s how to create this flavorful and colorful dish:

Cook the pasta: Choose a small box of your favorite whole-wheat pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or rotini. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and drain it well. Let the pasta cool completely before assembling the salad.
Prepare the vegetables: Slice cherry tomatoes in half for a vibrant pop of color. Fresh mozzarella pearls add a creamy and delightful texture.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a crack of fresh black pepper for a simple and flavorful vinaigrette dressing.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella pearls. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
Freshness boost: Finely chop some fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad for an extra burst of flavor and aroma.

Pack the Caprese pasta salad in an airtight container and enjoy it chilled for a refreshing and light lunch option.

9. One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta: A Weeknight Lifesaver

This one-pot tomato basil pasta is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal to prep for lunch the next day. Here’s how to create this flavorful and fuss-free dish:

Sauté the base: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic and sauté them until softened and fragrant.
Build the broth: Pour in chopped canned tomatoes (undrained) and vegetable broth. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper according to your taste preference. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the pasta: Add your favorite whole-wheat pasta shapes (penne, farfalle, or rotini work well) directly to the pot with the simmering tomato broth. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Fresh finish: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in a generous amount of chopped fresh basil leaves. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor, if desired.

Let the one-pot tomato basil pasta cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container for lunch. This dish reheats well and is sure to satisfy your midday cravings.

10. Tuna Salad with Whole-Wheat Crackers: A Classic with a Healthy Twist

This classic lunch option gets a healthy upgrade with whole-wheat crackers. Here’s how to create this protein-packed and satisfying meal:

Flake the tuna: Drain canned tuna in water. Flake the tuna with a fork or use a knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the salad: In a bowl, combine the flaked tuna with a spoonful of mayonnaise (light mayonnaise for a lower-fat option), chopped celery for added crunch, diced red onion for a bit of bite, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a touch of brightness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve with crackers: Pack the tuna salad in an airtight container and pair it with whole-wheat crackers for a delicious and satisfying lunch. You can also serve the tuna salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for a lighter option.

This classic combination is a reliable and easy lunch to prepare, perfect for busy days.

11. Avocado Toast with a Twist: A Trendy and Flavorful Choice

Avocado toast is a popular brunch option, but it can also be a delicious and healthy lunch choice with a little creativity. Here’s how to create a flavorful twist on the classic:

Toast the base: Slice whole-wheat bread and toast it to your desired level of crispness.
Mash the avocado: Scoop out the flesh of a ripe avocado and mash it with a fork until creamy. Season the mashed avocado with a pinch of salt and freshly squeezed lemon juice to prevent browning.
Top it off: Spread the mashed avocado on the toasted bread. To add some protein and a fried egg experience, crack an egg into a pan and cook it over medium heat until the whites are set and the yolk is cooked to your preference. Gently place the fried egg on top of the avocado toast.
Extra flavor: Crumble some feta cheese over the avocado toast for a salty and tangy contrast. Finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or everything bagel seasoning for a savory kick.

Pack the avocado toast in an airtight container and enjoy it for a trendy and flavorful lunch option.

12. Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Berries: A Sweet and Nutritious Treat

This yogurt parfait is a healthy and satisfying sweet treat that will keep you energized throughout the afternoon. Here’s how to create a layered delight:

Gather your ingredients: Plain Greek yogurt, granola (choose your favorite flavor or make your own!), fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries (frozen berries work too!), and a drizzle of honey (optional).
Layer it up: In a small container or mason jar, start with a layer of plain Greek yogurt. Top it with your favorite granola for a satisfying crunch. Add a layer of fresh berries for a burst of sweetness and vitamins. Repeat the layers until you fill the container or jar to your liking.
Sweet drizzle (optional): If desired, drizzle a touch of honey over the top layer for a touch of extra sweetness.

This parfait is a customizable treat. You can experiment with different yogurt flavors, granola options, and berries to create your own perfect combination.

13. Homemade Trail Mix: A Portable and Customizable Snack

Store-bought trail mix can be expensive and full of added sugar. Here’s how to create your own healthy and delicious homemade trail mix:

Gather your mix-ins: Choose a variety of nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews for healthy fats and protein. Add dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, and cherries for sweetness and a chewy texture. Dark chocolate chips can be included for a decadent touch, but use them sparingly.
Mix it up: In an airtight container, combine your chosen nuts, dried fruit, and dark chocolate chips (if using). Shake everything together to ensure even distribution.
Portion control: Pack a small portion of your homemade trail mix in a separate container for a convenient and satisfying afternoon snack.

This homemade trail mix is a great way to curb hunger pangs and keep your energy levels up throughout the workday. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

14. Leftover Roast Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts: Repurpose Leftovers into Something New

Did you have a delicious roast chicken dinner? Don’t let the leftovers go to waste! Here’s how to transform them into a delightful lunch salad:

Shred the chicken: Using two forks or a meat chopper, shred the leftover cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the veggies: Dice some celery and red onion for added crunch and flavor. Seedless red grapes add a touch of sweetness and a delightful pop of color.
Chop the nuts: Roughly chop walnuts for a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, a touch of Dijon mustard (optional), salt, and pepper for a simple and flavorful vinaigrette dressing.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced celery, red onion, red grapes, and chopped walnuts. Pour the vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

Enjoy this flavorful and refreshing leftover chicken salad on its own or pack it with some whole-wheat crackers or a bed of lettuce leaves for a complete lunch.

15. Leftover Veggie Stir-Fry with Brown Rice Noodles: A Vegetarian Remix

Leftover stir-fry vegetables can be transformed into a delicious lunch option. Here’s how to create a vegetarian twist:

Reheat the veggies: Heat a pan or skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of soy sauce or vegetable broth to prevent sticking. Add leftover stir-fry vegetables and heat through until warmed.
Prepare the noodles: Cook brown rice noodles according to package instructions for a healthy and gluten-free base. Alternatively, you can use leftover brown rice from dinner.
Make the sauce (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, a touch of sriracha (optional) for a kick, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a flavorful sauce.
Assemble the lunch: Pack the reheated stir-fry vegetables in an airtight container. Portion out cooked brown rice noodles into another container or combine them directly with the vegetables for a one-bowl lunch. Drizzle the optional sauce over the vegetables and noodles before packing, if using.

This vegetarian lunch option is a creative way to use leftover stir-fry vegetables and provides a satisfying and flavorful meal.

With these 15 delicious and easy recipes, you can ditch the boring lunch routine and pack a powerful and satisfying meal every workday!

Bonus Tip: Invest in a good set of reusable containers to keep your lunch fresh and avoid using plastic wrap or disposable bags. This is a small step towards a more eco-friendly lunch routine.

Final Thoughts and Recipe Variations

Packing a healthy and delicious lunch doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little planning and these easy recipes in your repertoire, you can enjoy a variety of satisfying meals throughout the workweek. Here are some additional tips to keep your lunchbox game strong:

Batch cooking: Cook a larger batch of protein (chicken breast, quinoa, lentils) or brown rice on the weekend to have prepped ingredients ready for quick lunch assembly throughout the week.
Leftover magic: Don’t be afraid to get creative with leftovers! Leftover roasted vegetables can be added to salads, wraps, or pasta dishes. Leftover grilled chicken can be chopped and used in sandwiches or salads.
Seasonal inspiration: Take advantage of seasonal fruits and vegetables for added freshness and flavor. During the summer, pack a watermelon and feta salad or a chilled cucumber gazpacho soup. In the fall, try a roasted butternut squash and kale salad or a lentil soup with chopped apples.
Make it a family affair: Involve your family in lunch prep! Get your kids to help wash and chop vegetables or assemble their own lunchboxes with healthy choices.
Packing for freshness: Pack wet ingredients like dressings and sauces separately to prevent wilting of salads and sandwiches. Use insulated containers for items that need to stay cold or hot.

Conclusion

Remember, these recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own personalized lunch creations.

With a little creativity and planning, packing a delicious and healthy lunch can be a breeze, keeping you fueled and focused throughout your busy workday.