Let’s be honest, figuring out what to pack for lunch can a be a REAL pain.
You want something healthy, but you’re tired of the same old thing.
And let’s not even talk about that long line for the office microwave. Who has time for that?
Having a delicious, healthy lunch that’s ready to eat the second you open it is a TOTAL game-changer. It saves you time, money, and from eating another sad desk salad.
That’s why I put together a list of my favorite cold lunch ideas that are anything but boring.
These lunches are easy to pack, full of flavor, and will actually keep you energized for the rest of the workday.
Here are 24 healthy and simple ideas to get you started.
1. Cold Lobster Salad
Cold Lobster Salad is a fresh and satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm days.
Enjoy it on greens or in a soft roll for a classic cold lobster roll vibe.
2. Cold Sesame Noodles Chicken Salad
Cold Sesame Noodles Chicken Salad is a creamy, savory crowd-pleaser with juicy chicken and crisp veggies.
It’s great for lunch boxes, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal.
3. Easy Recipe for 3 Bean Salad
Easy Recipe for 3 Bean Salad is a no-cook, protein-packed dish with a creamy herb dressing.
It’s excellent as a side or a hearty cold bean salad for meal prep.
4. Cold Corn Salad
Cold Corn Salad brings sweet corn and rich Gouda together in a simple, crowd-pleasing combo.
It’s a go-to for quick lunches or bringing along to potlucks.
5. Salad Bar Ideas
Salad Bar Ideas let everyone build their own perfect bowl with fresh ingredients and favorite toppings.
It’s a fun and flexible option for entertaining or prepping meals ahead.
6. Cooked Salmon Poke Bowl With Easy Sauce
Cooked Salmon Poke Bowl With Easy Sauce features pan-seared salmon with a sweet honey garlic glaze.
It’s a light, flavorful dinner or lunch that’s easy to customize.
7. Classic Waldorf Salad
Classic Waldorf Salad is a creamy, crunchy mix of apples, grapes, walnuts, and celery.
It’s a timeless choice for a refreshing, light lunch or side dish.
8. Mediterranean Cold Rice Salad With Herbs And Feta
Mediterranean Cold Rice Salad With Herbs And Feta is a bright, zesty dish with lemon and feta.
It’s a satisfying vegetarian meal or perfect cold side for any summer table.
9. Carrot Noodles with Pesto
Carrot Noodles with Pesto are a fresh, vibrant twist on pasta.
Loaded with crunchy carrots and a bold pesto flavor, this dish is quick, healthy, and loved by all ages.
10. Grilled Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Grilled Buffalo Chicken Wraps deliver bold, zesty flavor in every bite.
Each wrap combines tender grilled chicken, spicy Buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and crisp celery for a satisfying meal.
11. Best Spinach Salad Recipe
This Best Spinach Salad is a no-fuss meal that’s ready in minutes.
Packed with fresh greens and easy to customize, it’s perfect for a simple lunch or weeknight dinner.
12. Deconstructed Sushi Bowls
Deconstructed Sushi Bowls bring the bold taste of sushi to your plate in a mess-free way.
Soy butter rice, smoked salmon, sriracha mayo, and pickled ginger make each bite full of flavor and fun.
13. Long Grain and Wild Rice Chicken Salad
Long Grain and Wild Rice Chicken Salad is a hearty, tasty option for lunch or dinner.
With a mix of textures and colorful ingredients, it’s great on its own or wrapped up for grab-and-go meals.
14. Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl combines Greek favorites in one easy, satisfying meal.
Perfect for meal prep, it’s fresh, flavorful, and ready in minutes with no extra effort.
15. Fall Harvest Chicken Salad
Fall Harvest Chicken Salad brings warm, sweet, and smoky flavors to your table.
Roasted butternut squash, quinoa, and feta cheese make this salad a festive, healthy choice for any occasion.
16. Cold Ramen Salad with Soy Ginger Dressing (vegan)
Cold Ramen Salad with Soy Ginger Dressing is a refreshing, vegan take on a classic noodle salad.
Tossed with a zesty dressing and crisp veggies, it’s a light yet filling meal that’s easy to make.
17. Peanut Noodle Salad
Peanut Noodle Salad is a quick, flavorful dish that’s both vegan and gluten free.
The tangy sesame peanut dressing coats the noodles perfectly, making every bite satisfying.
Great for meal prep or a light weeknight dinner, it’s a go-to cold noodle salad recipe.
18. Cucumber Edamame Salad with Ginger Lime Dressing
Cucumber Edamame Salad with Ginger Lime Dressing is fresh, crisp, and full of zesty flavor.
This light and satisfying salad is perfect as a side or a quick lunch.
Easy to make ahead and ideal for meal prep, it’s a healthy boost to any meal.
19. Pesto Tofu Sandwich
Pesto Tofu Sandwich brings bold herbaceous pesto and savory tofu together with crisp veggies.
Toasted bread adds the perfect crunch, making it a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
A delicious, quick lunch or dinner option that’s full of texture and flavor.
20. Tex Mex Lunch Bowl
Tex Mex Lunch Bowl is a simple, customizable meal that’s perfect for prep.
Juicy marinated chicken and creamy chili sauce bring bold flavors to every bite.
Loaded with your favorite burrito toppings, it’s a hearty and easy dinner solution.
21. Tuna Pasta Salad
Tuna Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and ideal for potlucks.
Creamy, fresh, and full of flavor, it’s a go-to summer lunch option.
Chilled and ready to enjoy, it’s perfect when you need something simple and tasty.
22. Chicken Macaroni Salad
Chicken Macaroni Salad is a classic favorite with rotisserie chicken and fresh veggies.
This cold chicken macaroni salad is simple, flavorful, and great for picnics.
A quick dinner or packed lunch that’s always a hit.
23. Cold Salmon Salad with Mayo
Cold Salmon Salad with Mayo is made with fresh salmon and packed with lemon, dill, and tangy Greek yogurt.
The creamy, zesty dressing makes the salad rich and satisfying.
A simple, elegant dish that’s perfect for a light meal or snack.
24. Asian Noodle Salad Recipe (Easy Meal Prep!)
Asian Noodle Salad Recipe is a nutrient-packed meal that stays fresh for up to 5 days.
The easy-to-make dressing gives it bold flavor, perfect for meal prep.
A delicious and convenient cold noodle salad that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
