What to Make for Lunch: Quick and Easy Ideas for Busy Days

As a busy professional, I often struggle to make a good lunch. The midday meal can be an afterthought, with quick snacks or leftovers. But, with some prep and simple recipes, lunch can be a highlight of my day.

This article offers quick, easy, and tasty lunch ideas for busy days. Whether you’re looking for what to make for lunch, healthy lunch ideas, or quick lunch meals, you’ll find plenty of options. They fit your lifestyle and preferences.

Tasty and Convenient Crustless Quiche Recipes

Crustless quiche is a great choice for a quick, healthy lunch. It’s filled with veggies and is easy to make. Veggie-filled crustless quiche is especially tasty and good for you, making it perfect for busy days.

Veggie-Packed Crustless Quiche for a Nutritious Lunch

This crustless quiche recipe, created by Vered DeLeeuw and reviewed by Rachel Benight MS, RD, is a great way to eat more veggies. It has a 5-star rating from 56 votes, so it’s loved by many.

It only takes 55 minutes to make, with 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking. Each slice has just 196 calories, making it a guilt-free choice. The recipe is gluten-free and includes broccoli, eggs, sour cream, scallions, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

This crustless quiche is very versatile. You can freeze slices for a quick lunch or keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also add different veggies or protein like shredded chicken or ham.

“I served this crustless quiche at a church lunch, and I had to laugh when one guy told me how much he disliked vegetables. Many people were surprised by how much they loved this veggie-filled quiche recipe—and he was one of them!” – Melinda Calverley

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy lunch or a dish to impress, try this vegetable quiche recipe. It’s a quick lunch recipe that’s also easy quiche and nutritious.

Quick Shredded Beef Tacos for a Satisfying Lunch

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty lunch, try these shredded beef tacos. They’re simple to prepare and ideal for hectic days.

The key to this recipe is the overnight marinade. It makes the beef tender and flavorful. Just warm the tortillas, add the beef, and top with your favorite toppings for a delicious Mexican-inspired lunch.

Pamela Pogue, a home cook, says, “This dish is as easy as tacos. The marinade makes the meat tender.” So, these shredded beef tacos are sure to become a favorite.

• Chuck roast is the best cut of beef for shredded beef tacos. But you can also use brisket, rump roast, round roast, or flank steak.
• You can make shredded beef tacos on the stovetop, in the Instant Pot, or in a slow cooker.
• The shredded beef can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

These quick shredded beef tacos are a great and easy lunch option. They offer bold Mexican flavors and tender beef. The shredded beef can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Greek-Inspired Lunches: Refreshing and Flavorful

Craving the vibrant flavors of a Greek festival but can’t attend? No worries, you can make Greek tastes at home. These lunch ideas will take you to the sunny Mediterranean, offering a quick and healthy break.

Recreating the Flavors of a Greek Festival at Home

Try a classic Greek salad, a recipe from the 19th century. Mix crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. For more, add grilled chicken or lamb skewers, seasoned with herbs and spices.

The creamy avgolemono sauce is another great choice. It’s a lemon-egg sauce found in many cuisines. Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, grilled fish, or fluffy rice for a delicious flavor.

• Try spanakopita, a flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta.
• Enjoy the sweet and nutty taste of baklava, a Greek dessert with phyllo, walnuts, and honey.
• Make a cool tzatziki dip with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill.

With these Greek-inspired lunch ideas, you’ll feel like you’re at a lively Greek festival, all from home.

Savory Stromboli Sandwiches: A Crowd-Pleasing Lunch

Looking for a quick and delicious lunch option for a crowd? Savory stromboli sandwiches are perfect! They’re easy to make and versatile, great for busy days or weekend gatherings.

The secret to these stromboli sandwiches is frozen bread dough. It turns into a flavorful, golden-brown loaf in no time. They’re filled with cheese, cured meats, and fresh veggies for a balanced meal.

Stromboli sandwiches are customizable. Try different fillings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers. You can also add spinach or spicy Italian seasoning. This lets everyone enjoy their favorite flavors.

These stromboli sandwiches are also portable lunch options. Cut them into portions for lunchboxes or picnic baskets. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleasing, easy lunch idea.

Want to make lunchtime better with a savory option? Try these stromboli sandwiches. They’re easy to make and perfect for eating on the go.

Fruity Chicken Salad: A Refreshing Lunch Favorite

Finding a satisfying and refreshing lunch can be tough. But, this fruity chicken salad is the answer. It mixes tender chicken, juicy fruit, and crunchy cashews for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

The chicken is grilled to perfection, creating a savory char and keeping it juicy inside. The strawberries add sweetness and help make the dressing creamy. Honey and balsamic vinegar add tanginess, balancing out the flavors.

The crunchy cashews are the salad’s highlight. They add a buttery texture and nutty flavor. Paired with crisp lettuce, cool cucumber, creamy avocado, and tangy feta, this salad is a burst of freshness.

This fruity chicken salad is great for a light lunch or a meal on the go. It serves 8, making it perfect for sharing or meal-prepping. Its vibrant colors and nourishing ingredients make it a new favorite.

“I’ve tried many chicken salad recipes over the years, but this is my very favorite. It’s fresh, fruity and refreshing, and the cashews add wonderful crunch. Every time I serve it at a potluck or picnic, I get rave reviews—and I always come home with an empty bowl!”

– Kara Cook

5-Ingredient Chicken Dinners for Easy Lunch Meal Prep

Getting ready for the week’s lunches can feel overwhelming. But, with 5-ingredient chicken recipes, it’s easier. These recipes are tasty, simple, and great for those with little time.

The 5-Ingredient Tex Mex Crockpot Chicken is a hit, with a 4.69 rating from 47 votes. It’s easy to shred and perfect for wraps, salads, or bowls.

The Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is another favorite. It’s the 73rd recipe in our collection. It’s a mix of chicken and broccoli, making for a healthy and tasty lunch.

1. Marinated Baked Orange Chicken
2. Grilled Caesar Chicken
3. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
4. Soy Garlic Chicken
5. Onion Soup Chicken
6. Crispy BBQ Chicken
7. Bacon-Wrapped Chicken
8. Rosemary Chicken
9. 5-Ingredient Chicken Dish
10. Buttermilk Marinated Chicken

These recipes are quick, easy, and offer many flavors. Cooked chicken can last up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. This makes meal prep a breeze. Add fresh greens, whole grains, and veggies for a healthy, filling lunch.

Try these 5-ingredient chicken recipes for easy lunch meal prep that fits your busy schedule. Enjoy chicken-based lunches that are quick, delicious, and save you time in the kitchen.

Hearty Turkey Quinoa Chili: A Protein-Packed Lunch

Looking for a healthy and filling lunch? Try this tasty turkey chili with quinoa, veggies, and spices. It’s not just yummy but also packed with nutrients, making it great for a protein-rich lunch.

This turkey quinoa chili is made with 1.25 pounds of lean turkey. It has 2 tablespoons of chili powder and 2 teaspoons of cumin. Plus, it’s seasoned with salt and black pepper for a delicious taste.

The chili also includes quinoa, a superfood that boosts protein and fiber. It’s mixed with yellow onion, garlic, tomatoes, black beans, sweet corn, and butternut squash. This makes the chili very nutritious.

The recipe is simple and quick, taking only 55 minutes to cook. Just put all the ingredients in a 6-quart crockpot. Let it cook for 3 hours on high or 6 hours on low. You’ll get a hearty, protein-packed lunch perfect for weekdays.

“This heart-healthy turkey quinoa chili is not only tasty, it’s a vitamin and protein powerhouse!” – Sharon Giljum

This turkey chili has 216 calories, 18 grams of protein, and 6 grams of fiber per serving. It’s a healthy and filling choice for lunch. You can enjoy it alone or with crackers or toast for a complete meal.

What to Make for Lunch: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Looking for a comforting lunch that’s easy to make? Try this slow cooker split pea soup. It’s simmered in your slow cooker, blending flavors for a nourishing meal. It’s perfect for busy weekdays.

To make this split pea soup, you need just a few ingredients. Start by browning 12 ounces of diced smoked ham in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, add chopped vegetables like 1 large yellow onion, 3 medium leeks, 3 cloves of garlic, 2 medium carrots, and 2 stalks of celery.

Next, add 1 pound of dried green split peas, 1/2 pound of Yukon gold potatoes, and 8 cups of chicken stock or water. Season with 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Let the slow cooker do the work for 4 hours on high or 6 hours on low.

When it’s done, garnish with 1 cup of chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. This slow cooker recipe is great because leftovers can be stored for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months. It’s a convenient make-ahead lunch for busy days.

“This recipe is great to make ahead for busy days. Serve with some crackers or toast for a complete meal.”

This slow cooker split pea soup is a hearty and comforting lunch option. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed all week long. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making it a satisfying meal.

Asparagus and Steak Salad: A Satisfying Lunch Option

As the weather gets warmer, try a asparagus and steak salad for lunch. It’s a mix of tender grilled steak, fresh asparagus, and other tasty ingredients. This meal is both filling and packed with protein, making it perfect for midday.

The star of this steak salad is the grilled sirloin steak. It’s marinated in oils and seasonings for hours before grilling. This makes it juicy and tender, contrasting beautifully with the crisp asparagus. The homemade basil vinaigrette dressing brings everything together, making this seasonal lunch a must-try.

Making this protein-rich lunch is easy. Start by marinating the steak in Yare Valley cold-pressed rapeseed oil, lemon juice, and spices. Grill the steak, then blanch the asparagus. Mix everything with greens, tomatoes, and the steak. Finish with the homemade basil vinaigrette and enjoy your delicious seasonal lunch idea.

“Cooking is one of my favorite hobbies—especially when it comes to experimenting with fresh ingredients like these. This meaty salad is wonderful at the start of asparagus season.”

Tuna sandwich

Here’s my go-to tuna sandwich! I use tuna packed in oil for richness, and a splash of pickle juice for an extra tangy kick—plus some chopped pickles for good measure! Dijon mustard adds depth, while dill brings a fresh herbal note. Celery provides a nice crunch, and green onions add a hint of brightness. Spread it all on your favorite bread and enjoy!

Ingredients for the Tuna Sandwich Filling

Dill: For a hint of herby brightness. Dill pairs beautifully with tuna, but basil or parsley would also work as great alternatives.

Tuna in Oil: Tuna packed in olive oil makes for a richer, tastier sandwich than tuna in water. But if water-packed tuna is all you have, no worries—just go for it!

Canned Tuna Quality: Not all canned tuna is the same! Higher-quality, responsibly-sourced tuna is often worth the price.

Whole-Egg Mayo: Whole-egg mayonnaise has a smoother, less vinegary flavor compared to regular mayo, which can sometimes be overly sweet.

Pickles and Pickle Juice: We’re using both the pickle and a splash of the juice for extra tang in the filling.

Green Onion: Adds a burst of freshness. You can substitute with shallots (US: eschallots) or finely minced red onion (about 1/4 cup).

Celery: Adds essential crunch to balance the creamy texture of the filling. Finely mince it to blend well.

I’m convinced that you can create delicious meals using everyday ingredients, even when you’re pressed for time and mindful of your budget. All it takes is some smart cooking and a bit of creativity!

Steps for Making a Tuna Sandwich

1. Tuna Filling: Drain the oil from the tuna and transfer it to a bowl with the remaining filling ingredients. Use a wooden spoon to mix vigorously, breaking the tuna down to a paste-like consistency. It’s a good idea to mash the celery and pickles to soften them and release some of their juices into the mixture.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread butter on the bread, then layer with two slices of lettuce followed by the tuna filling. Use as much or as little as you prefer. Place the other slice of bread on top, then slice and enjoy!

Mediterranean Bulgur Salad: A Vegetarian Lunch Idea

Searching for a delicious and healthy vegetarian lunch idea? This Mediterranean bulgur salad is perfect. It’s filled with bulgur, beans, and fresh veggies, making it a satisfying choice.

Bulgur, a type of cracked wheat, is the main ingredient. It’s simmered or steamed for about 20 minutes until tender. The chewiness of the bulgur complements the crisp veggies and creamy feta cheese, creating a delightful texture contrast.

Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, add a complete protein source to the salad. Cherry tomatoes are used instead of full-size tomatoes to keep their shape and flavor. Leftover salad can be stored for up to two to three days in the fridge.

The dressing for this Mediterranean bulgur salad is simple yet flavorful. It includes olive oil, honey or maple syrup, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander, kosher salt, and lemon juice. Add the dressing just before serving for the best flavor.

This bulgur salad is packed with over 16g of fiber and 20g of protein per serving. It’s a nutritious and healthy lunch idea. The recipe requires just 12 ingredients, making it quick and easy for busy weekdays. Serve it on its own or with pita bread or crackers for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired lunch.

This Mediterranean bulgur salad is a delicious and healthy lunch idea. It will take you straight to the Mediterranean’s sun-drenched shores. Enjoy this vegetarian lunch option as a satisfying and nutritious midday meal.

Conclusion

This article has given you many quick, easy, and tasty lunch ideas. These ideas are perfect for busy days. You can try crustless quiche, shredded beef tacos, fruity chicken salad, or slow cooker split pea soup.

These recipes are great for different diets and can be made to your liking. By planning and preparing these meals, you’ll have a healthy lunch. This will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Choosing a healthy lunch is important for your body and mind. Making your own meals is a great way to control what you eat. It helps you stay focused and full of energy in the afternoon. Enjoy your meal!