Forget the tuna salad, discovering new work lunch ideas is the best way to break the lunchtime rut. We’ve compiled a list of our 13 favorite recipes that are perfect for the workplace. These meals are easy to prepare, convenient to pack, and delicious enough to look forward to. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or a hearty meal to power through the afternoon, we’ve got you covered. Each recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that promises to make your lunch break something to savor.
Apple and hummus pita bread
Crisp apple slices and creamy hummus are the stars of the Apple and Hummus Pita Bread, a refreshing twist on a classic. It’s ready in just 10 minutes, combining the sweetness of fruit with the savory taste of hummus, all tucked into a soft pita. This lunch option is not only quick to prepare but also offers a satisfying crunch and a protein boost. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors that’s perfect for a midday meal.
Get the Recipe: Apple and hummus pita bread
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
The Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich brings a touch of Middle Eastern flair to your lunch routine. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a sandwich filled with flavorful turkey kofta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sauce. The main ingredients of ground turkey and aromatic spices create a deliciously seasoned bite that’s both satisfying and lean. It’s a wholesome choice that packs a punch of exotic taste.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl
The Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl is a hearty and healthful option that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It combines the nuttiness of brown rice with the firm texture of tofu, all seasoned with Middle Eastern spices. The main ingredients include tofu, rice, and a variety of vegetables, making it a nutrient-rich choice. This bowl offers a savory and slightly spicy taste that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl
Mujadara for one
Mujadara for one is a comforting and simple dish that can be prepared in just 35 minutes. It features lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, providing a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. This dish is known for its earthy taste with a hint of sweetness from the onions. It’s a complete meal in a mug that’s both filling and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara for one
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs are a delightful plant-based option that takes about 40 minutes to make. They’re made with a mix of grated vegetables and spices, offering a meat-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. These kebabs have a slightly charred outside and a tender inside, providing a taste that’s full of spice and satisfaction. They’re a great way to enjoy a vegetarian twist on a classic dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Roast Beef Gouda Grilled Cheese
The Roast Beef Gouda Grilled Cheese is a gourmet version of the beloved sandwich, ready in just 15 minutes. It combines the savory flavors of roast beef and the creamy, smoky taste of Gouda cheese. This sandwich is made with thick bread that crisps up perfectly when grilled. It’s a comforting and indulgent choice for a work lunch.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Gouda Grilled Cheese
Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich
The Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich is a zesty, flavorful meal that can be whipped up in 20 minutes. It features shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a homemade ranch dressing, all piled onto a hearty bread. The main ingredients come together to create a taste that’s tangy, with a little kick of Southwestern spice. It’s a satisfying sandwich that’s sure to spice up your lunch hour.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich
Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon
Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon is a light and refreshing option that takes about 25 minutes to prepare. The dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the fresh flavors of basil and lemon. The main ingredients are simple yet create a bright and zesty taste that’s perfect for a lunchtime pick-me-up. It’s a wholesome salad that’s both nourishing and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are a crunchy and savory meal ready in around 30 minutes. This dish features ground chicken seasoned with Thai spices and served in crisp lettuce leaves, drizzled with a rich peanut sauce. The combination of spicy chicken and creamy sauce creates a taste sensation that’s both exotic and comforting. It’s a hands-on, interactive lunch that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebabs are a delicious and protein-packed option that can be ready in about 30 minutes. These kebabs are made with ground chicken and a blend of Mediterranean spices, delivering a moist and flavorful experience. The main ingredients provide a taste that’s both smoky from the grill and aromatic from the spices. They’re an excellent choice for a satisfying and lean lunch.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab
Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
The Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes is a unique and filling lunch option that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. This sandwich is stuffed with tender slices of eggplant, seasoned potatoes, and boiled eggs, all complemented by a drizzle of tahini sauce. The flavors are a mix of earthy and tangy, providing a robust and satisfying meal. It’s a traditional Israeli street food that’s become a lunchtime favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
Colombian Cheese Arepas
Colombian Cheese Arepas are a cheesy and comforting choice that can be made in just 20 minutes. These arepas are made with pre-cooked cornmeal and filled with melty cheese, creating a warm and gooey center. The main ingredients, cornmeal and cheese, combine to offer a taste that’s subtly sweet and delightfully cheesy. They’re a simple yet satisfying handheld lunch.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Cheese Arepas
Pasta Salad without Mayo
Pasta Salad without Mayo is a fresh and light dish that can be tossed together in just 20 minutes. This salad uses a variety of colorful vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette, avoiding the heaviness of mayonnaise. The main ingredients, such as pasta, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, come together to create a crisp and clean taste. It’s an ideal choice for a no-fuss, health-conscious lunch.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad without Mayo