Trying to come up with quick and easy lunch ideas for work can be a challenge. It's tough to balance craving something delicious with finding something filling and nutritious. In this article, we'll explore 10 lunch ideas that you can easily prepare at home, transport to work, then reheat or eat cold. These lunches will help keep you full and focused throughout the workday.
1. Mason Jar Salads
The great thing about mason jar salads is how customizable they can be. Begin with a base of lettuce, spinach, or arugula, then layer in protein such as grilled chicken, salmon or tofu, plus veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Finally, add your preferred dressing to the top. When you're ready for lunch, simply shake the jar and enjoy.
2. Wraps
Wraps are a portable and mess-free option for lunch. Tortillas or lettuce leaves can serve as the base, and from there, you can add in fillings like hummus, grilled veggies, sliced turkey or chicken, and cheese. Roll everything up and take it to work.
3. Grain Bowls
A grain bowl is a one-pot meal that can be made in advance and taken to work for the rest of the week. Choose a grain like rice or quinoa and then add veggies, protein, and a sauce or dressing. Try combinations like chicken with sweet potato and broccoli, or tofu with edamame and avocado.
4. Quesadillas
For a quick and easy lunch, quesadillas are an excellent option. Use tortillas or pitas as the base and then add cheese, veggies, and protein like black beans or shredded chicken. Heat it up in the microwave at work and enjoy.
5. Soup
Soup is an affordable and easy lunch option, and can be made in advance for the week to come. Homemade broth and vegetables are a healthy base, then add in your preferred protein such as tofu, chicken, or beans. Portion the soup into individual containers and heat them up in the microwave when you're ready to eat.
6. Pita Pockets
Pita pockets are both handy and versatile. Stuff them with hummus, veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers, and protein like turkey or grilled chicken. You could also heat up falafel or meatballs in advance and stuff them in a pita pocket for a warm and filling lunch.
7. Stir Fry
A stir fry is a simple and quick lunch idea that can be easily transported to work. Simply stir fry veggies and protein like chicken, steak or tofu in olive oil, chili flakes, and soy sauce. Cook a big batch on the weekend and portion it into individual containers for the week ahead.
8. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a perfect summer lunch option. Toast some whole wheat bread and top it with chopped tomatoes, garlic, and basil. You can also top it with avocado or goat cheese for extra creaminess. Pack some in a container with fresh basil and separate the toast until lunchtime.
9. Pasta Salad
Pasta salad can be made in advance and eaten cold or at room temperature. Boil some whole wheat pasta and then add in chopped veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, and protein like tuna or grilled chicken. Dress everything with your preference of vinaigrette or creamy dressing.
10. Sandwiches
Sandwiches are a go-to lunch option for many. Whole grain bread toasted is an excellent sandwich base. Add fillings of your turkey, cheese, tomato slices, or hummus, roasted veggies or even peanut butter and sliced banana to mix things up.
All Rights Reserved © 2024