17 Power Lunches To Fuel Your Afternoons

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17 Power Lunches To Fuel Your Afternoons

Choosing the right lunch is like giving yourself a midday gift. It’s an act of self-care that pays off by boosting your mood and energy levels for the rest of the day. It’s not just about the food, but about taking a moment to pause, refuel, and prepare for the rest of your day’s challenges.

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini stacked on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who says you can’t have quick and nutritious in the same bite? When lunchtime rolls around, the Turkey & Apple Panini is your best friend. It’s got that perfect mix of lean protein and crisp sweetness to keep your engine running smoothly through the afternoon. This panini isn’t just a meal; it’s your ticket to a power-packed afternoon, ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sometimes, all you need is a bowl of something fresh to break through that midday slump. Enter the Shirazi Salad, a vibrant and refreshing choice that promises to lift your spirits and energy. It’s the kind of meal that says, “Who needs a nap?” when you’ve got a busy afternoon ahead. This salad is not just food; it’s fuel for your day, keeping you alert and on your toes.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings

Smoked and glazed peach-chipotle chicken wings on a black plate.
Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a way to spice up your lunch routine? Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings are here to rescue you from the ordinary. They’re the perfect blend of smoky sweetness with a kick, making sure your afternoon is anything but dull. Think of these wings as your secret weapon for powering through those long hours, offering a delicious reminder that lunch can be fun and energizing.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Think pizza is just for dinner or weekends? Ham & Asparagus Pizza will change your mind. It’s a lighter take on a classic that won’t leave you feeling sluggish, making it an ideal choice for a power lunch. You’ll be ready to tackle the rest of the day without that dreaded food coma.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s something comforting about turning to a classic when the day gets hectic. Old Fashioned Ham Salad is exactly that—a reliable, no-fuss option that fills you up and keeps you going. It’s like a little nod to simpler times, right in the middle of your busy day, giving you that boost you need to keep moving forward. It’s your cozy, power lunch that whispers, “You’ve got this.”
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Korean Beef Bowl

A top-down shot of Korean Beef Bowl with chopsticks and garlic.
Korean Beef Bowl. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you need something quick that keeps you moving, Korean Beef Bowl has got you covered. It’s a delicious mix of sweet and salty, perfect for a lunch that needs to be both speedy and substantial. This bowl is a surefire way to ensure you’re powered up for the afternoon, with plenty of energy to spare. Plus, it’s just really delicious.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef Bowl

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re craving something that’s a step away from the usual, Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins is a go-to. It’s a mix of creamy, spicy, and a hint of sweet—keeping your palate interested and your body energized for the afternoon. This salad tells a story of adventure on your plate, ensuring you’re ready and raring to take on the second half of your day.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

A closeup shot of two tacos filled with smoked pork belly and vegetables.
Smoked Pork Belly Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Why settle for a boring lunch when you can have Smoked Pork Belly Tacos? They’re a little bit of joy wrapped up in a tortilla, promising to make your afternoon anything but ordinary. These tacos are the pep talk you need, served up with a side of deliciousness, ensuring you’re not just full, but fully charged to tackle whatever the day throws at you.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Shrimp Scampi Pizza

A pizza with shrimp and cheese on top.
Shrimp Scampi Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever thought you could feel fancy and fueled at the same time? Shrimp Scampi Pizza is here to make that happen. It’s a lunch choice that brings a bit of elegance to your plate, without compromising on the energy you need to power through the day. This pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience, reminding you that a busy afternoon is no match for a well-fueled you.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Air fried chicken fries with dipping sauce on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Chicken Fries. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re all about that crisp without the hassle, Air Fryer Chicken Fries are your go-to. Think of these chicken fries as your midday pick-me-up, ready to help you zoom through your to-do list with energy to spare. This lunch is not just about keeping hunger at bay; it’s about fueling your afternoon wins.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados on a plate.
Tacos Dorados. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something crispy and filled with flavor? Tacos Dorados have got you covered. They’re the perfect combination of crunch and tang, making your lunchtime an event to look forward to. This is more than just a meal; it’s your secret sauce for an energized afternoon, ensuring you’re more than ready to face the rest of your day with a smile.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

An open-face NY Steamer sub copycat on a plate with Italian dressing.
Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a lunch that’ll keep you going strong all afternoon, look no further. Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich is your best bet for something that fills you up and tastes great without slowing you down. It’s got everything you need for a power lunch that fuels your day. Trust me, you won’t be sneaking in snacks before dinner after this one.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever had one of those days where breakfast feels like it was a week ago? Brisket Fried Rice is the game-changer for those moments. This dish is a fantastic way to make sure you’re not just full, but properly fueled for whatever the afternoon throws at you. It turns leftovers into a power lunch that’s anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Reuben Sliders

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Small bites can pack a big punch, and Reuben Sliders are proof of that. These little guys are a dynamite choice when you want a lunch that keeps you light on your feet but fully energized. They’re perfect for an afternoon boost, ensuring you stay productive and don’t hit a slump. Plus, they’re just fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Cheez-Its Tostada

Cheez-It Tostada on a plate with hot sauce in a bottle.
Cheez-Its Tostada. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When the usual lunch fare sounds boring, Cheez-Its Tostada is here to shake things up. This unique twist on a tostada uses a snack favorite to add an extra crunch, making your midday meal anything but dull. It’s a creative way to keep your energy up through the afternoon. Plus, it’s a conversation starter—everyone will want to know what you’re eating.
Get the Recipe: Cheez-Its Tostada

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or substance, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is your go-to. It’s refreshing, packed with nutrients, and the shrimp adds a nice protein boost. This salad is all about keeping you fueled and feeling good all through the afternoon. It’s a bright spot in any busy day.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Philly Cheesesteak Stacks

A white plate with a Philly Cheesesteak Stack and a bowl of soup.
Philly Cheesesteak Stacks. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Philly Cheesesteak Stacks offer a modern twist on a favorite, making lunchtime something to look forward to. They’re stacked with all the good stuff to keep you full and focused, no afternoon slump in sight. It’s a hearty option for those days when you need a little extra to keep going. Who knew power lunches could be this delicious?
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stacks

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