13 Lunch Ideas To Brighten Your Day

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13 Lunch Ideas To Brighten Your Day

Tired of the same old lunch routine? It’s time to add some excitement to your midday meal with these lunch ideas that are sure to brighten your day! These 13 recipes are not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will leave you looking forward to lunchtime every single day. They’re perfect for busy days, offering a mix of healthy and indulgent options that cater to all tastes.

Hand holding a frankie roll with two more rolls in the background.
Indian Frankies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Pakora

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This dish is known for its crisp texture and deep flavors, making it an excellent pick-me-up during a busy day. Chicken Pakora is the perfect choice for a lunch that needs a bit of excitement. It’s quick to serve, which makes it ideal for a lunch break treat. Each bite is packed with flavor, offering a pleasant escape from the day-to-day routine.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

A bowl of wonton soup with shrimp in it.
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

On a chilly day, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup. This dish brings a combination of textures and flavors, warming you from the inside out. It’s a smart choice for lunch, especially when you need something soothing. Each sip and bite introduces a delicate blend submerged in a flavorful broth that keeps you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

Air Fryer Empanadas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Empanadas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking for a handheld treat that’s both convenient and bursting with flavor, Air Fryer Empanadas are the way to go. This dish is celebrated for its crispy exterior and hearty filling, which make it a satisfying yet not overly heavy lunch option. Each empanada is a self-contained treat, ensuring that your lunch is as enjoyable as it is efficient.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas

Bombay Sandwiches

Bombay Sandwiches layered with potato, tomato, cucumbers, and an herb chutney sauce.
Bombay Sandwiches. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Brighten up your lunchtime with Bombay Sandwiches, a vibrant choice that brings the flavors of India to your palate. This dish is a colorful layering of fresh ingredients and spices, pressed between bread for an easy-to-manage meal. Each serving is both refreshing and rewarding, making it a popular choice among those who enjoy a touch of spice in their midday meal.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Closeup of a chicken shawarma wrap.
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Transform your lunch into a flavorful adventure with Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps. This dish wraps tangy fillings in soft bread, making for a convenient and delicious meal. It’s particularly suitable for lunch breaks as it’s easy to eat without a mess. The flavors are bold and engaging, offering a quick gourmet trip to the Middle East without leaving your desk.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Low angle shot of vietnamese summer rolls with edible flowers.
Vietnamese Summer Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who prefer a lighter lunch, Vietnamese Summer Rolls offer a fresh and healthy option. This dish is packed with crisp vegetables and herbs and wrapped in rice paper for a neat eating experience. Each roll is a burst of clean, vibrant flavors that can brighten any afternoon, making them a delectable choice for your lunch rotation.
Get the Recipe: Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Chicken Tikka Wrap

Low angle shot of 3 filled chicken tikka wraps.
Chicken Tikka Wrap. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Tikka Wrap is a robust choice for lunch, offering flavors that are both comforting and familiar. This dish wraps spiced chicken in soft bread, creating a meal that’s easy to consume even during the busiest days. It’s perfect for those seeking a substantial yet straightforward lunch option. Each wrap is filled with rich flavors, ensuring that your midday meal is enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Wrap

Corn and Tomato Chowder

A bowl of corn and tomato soup with fresh basil.
Corn and Tomato Chowder. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Imagine settling down with a bowl of Corn and Tomato Chowder, a dish that brings a cozy touch to any lunchtime. Its creamy base envelops each spoonful, promising a fulfilling meal without weighing you down. This chowder pairs wonderfully with a crusty piece of bread or a simple green salad, making it a versatile option for various dining preferences.
Get the Recipe: Corn and Tomato Chowder

Green Papaya Salad

Overhead shot of green papaya salad in a black bowl.
Green Papaya Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

On warmer days, Green Papaya Salad serves as a refreshing choice that invigorates your afternoon. Its crisp texture and light dressing make it ideal for those seeking a quick, health-conscious option. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a complement to a heavier entree, providing balance and freshness. Enjoy it on your patio or pack it for a vibrant, energizing meal at work.
Get the Recipe: Green Papaya Salad

Indian Frankies

Hand holding a frankie roll with two more rolls in the background.
Indian Frankies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a twist on traditional wraps, Indian Frankies are a must-try. These popular street food items are known for their bold flavors and satisfying wrap, ideal for a hands-on eating experience. They work great for a casual lunch gathering, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of authentic Indian cuisine. Perfect for those who enjoy a meal that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Indian Frankies

Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup

Low angle shot of stuffed pepper soup in a white bowl.
Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When time is short but the desire for a hearty meal is high, Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup comes to the rescue. This dish combines the essence of stuffed peppers in a soup form, making it both innovative and easy to consume. It’s a smart choice for meal preppers or anyone looking for a comforting bowl to enjoy amidst a hectic day.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup

Pork Belly Banh Mi

3 pork belly banh mi on a white platter with limes and pickled veg in the background.
Pork Belly Banh Mi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pork Belly Banh Mi brings a slice of Vietnamese gourmet art to your lunch hour. This sandwich is known for its dynamic textures and layers of flavor, encapsulated in a crusty baguette. It’s an exciting pick for those who enjoy a fusion of tastes and a hands-on approach to their meal. Whether it’s lunch on the go or a sit-down meal, it’s a fulfilling choice that leaves you ready for the afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi

Spicy Miso Ramen

A bowl of ramen with karaage chicken.
Spicy Miso Ramen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dig into the complex flavors of Spicy Miso Ramen, a dish that offers a delectable challenge to your palate. Its broth, rich with nuanced flavors, provides the perfect backdrop for a midday meal. This ramen is ideal for those chilly days when you crave warmth or a comforting meal that recharges your energy for the rest of the day. It’s a standout dish that combines tradition with a punch of heat.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen

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