When the middle of the workday rolls around, the last thing you want is a boring sandwich that tastes like cardboard.
Or worse, spending way too much money on takeout that just makes you feel sleepy for the rest of the day.
Packing your own lunch is a total game-changer, but it is SO easy to get stuck in a boring food rut.
That is why I put together a list of awesome, healthy lunch ideas that you can easily pack and take to work.
These ideas include fresh greens, tasty wraps, cozy bowls, and quick leftovers that actually taste BETTER the next day.
There is something for every taste—and every kind of “cooking skill level,” even if that just means opening a container.
So let us ditch the sad desk meals and get into these super easy recipes that will make your lunch break the best part of your day.
1. Beans and Rice
Beans and Rice is a budget-friendly vegan dish that makes meal prep for the work week very easy.
You can easily feed a group of five or six people for under ten dollars.
This flavorful cajun-inspired meal brings comfort to your table without costing much money.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
2. Tuna Salad (1940)
Tuna Salad (1940) is a timeless and simple lunch option straight from the 1940s.
It brings a taste of traditional American cooking right to your midday meal.
This classic recipe is quick to put together and tastes great on bread or crackers.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
3. Turkey Wrap
Turkey Wrap is a simple and satisfying meal for any ordinary day of the week.
Sliced turkey provides great flavor, though you can easily swap it for chicken if you prefer.
This handheld lunch comes together in minutes and keeps you full all afternoon.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
4. All-Vegetable Pad Thai
All-Vegetable Pad Thai is a wonderful dairy-free dinner option for a plant-based diet.
This flavorful vegetarian main dish makes a great lunch or evening meal.
It brings classic noodle flavors to your table using only wholesome vegetables.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
5. Avocado Tuna Salad Sub
Avocado Tuna Salad Sub combines creamy avocado with classic tuna salad for a tasty lunch.
This loaded sandwich makes a filling and satisfying meal during a busy workday.
It upgrades a traditional tuna sub with fresh and creamy avocado slices.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
6. BAKED FALAFEL WITH SESAME SEEDS
BAKED FALAFEL WITH SESAME SEEDS offers a healthy and high-protein option for lunch or dinner.
These vegan chickpea bites are baked instead of fried for a lighter meal.
A crunchy sesame seed coating adds great texture to these plant-based patties.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
7. Barley with Green Asparagus and Spinach
Barley with Green Asparagus and Spinach is a low-fat vegan meal for lunch or dinner.
Nutritious barley pairs with fresh green vegetables to create a wholesome dish.
This comforting bowl is packed with plant-based goodness and simple ingredients.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
8. Basil Pesto Veggie Wrap
Basil Pesto Veggie Wrap is a quick and fresh vegetarian lunch option.
Flavorful basil pesto brings a bright taste to this simple vegetable wrap.
It makes a great handheld meal when you want something light and tasty.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
9. Black Beans & Brown Rice With Garlicky Kale
Black Beans & Brown Rice With Garlicky Kale is a healthy and filling vegan meal that is great for lunch.
This gluten-free and dairy-free dish packs plenty of fiber and rich flavor into every single bite.
You will love how easily this wholesome bowl comes together for a quick and satisfying meal.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
10. Broccoli Cranberry Quinoa Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
Broccoli Cranberry Quinoa Salad with Honey Lime Dressing is a fast and easy dish loaded with fresh vitamins.
This vegetarian salad combines wholesome quinoa and crunchy broccoli with sweet cranberries for a bright flavor.
It makes a delicious low-fat side dish or a light lunch that you can put together in no time.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
