Elevate your office lunch game with a delightful array of ideas that will make your midday meal a highlight of your day. Tired of the same old sandwiches and salads? It’s time to discover some fresh, creative options that are both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Craving something light and refreshing or perhaps something more filling? We’ve curated a list of recipes that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Ready to reinvent your office lunches? Let’s dive into a world of delicious possibilities that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.
Recipes
1. Mason Jar Salads
They’re perfect for meal prep, making your weekdays a breeze with grab-and-go goodness. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable – mix and match ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. Just shake and enjoy a vibrant, healthy meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mason jars, knife, cutting board
No. of Ingredients: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp dressing of choice
Instructions:
- Start by adding the dressing to the bottom of the Mason jar.
- Layer the ingredients in the following order: chickpeas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, carrots, quinoa, greens, and feta cheese.
- Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator.
- When ready to eat, shake the jar to distribute the dressing and enjoy.
Serve with: Whole grain crackers or a slice of whole wheat bread.
Drink with: A refreshing iced green tea.
2. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, this Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is a hearty, healthy dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The nutty quinoa pairs beautifully with the earthy black beans, while fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing tie it all together. It’s a vibrant, satisfying salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Saucepan, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Gently fold in the avocado just before serving.
Serve with: Tortilla chips.
Drink with: A cold glass of lemonade.
3. Hummus and Veggie Wraps
These Hummus and Veggie Wraps are a fantastic option for a quick and nutritious meal. Creamy hummus provides a flavorful base, while a variety of fresh, crunchy vegetables add texture and color. Wrapped up in a whole grain tortilla, it’s a satisfying and portable lunch that you’ll look forward to.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Knife, cutting board
No. of Ingredients: 7
Ingredients:
- 4 whole grain tortillas
- 1 cup hummus
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/2 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions:
- Spread a generous amount of hummus on each tortilla.
- Layer the cucumber, bell pepper, carrot, and spinach on top.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly and slice in half.
Serve with: A side of mixed fruit.
Drink with: Sparkling water with a splash of lemon.
4. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Tender chicken, crisp romaine, and al dente pasta are tossed with a creamy Caesar dressing and topped with crunchy croutons and Parmesan cheese. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that works well for lunch or dinner.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Equipment: Saucepan, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 9
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup croutons
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, lettuce, pasta, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add the Caesar dressing and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and croutons just before serving.
Serve with: Garlic breadsticks.
Drink with: A glass of iced tea.
5. Turkey and Avocado Sandwich
The Turkey and Avocado Sandwich is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Layers of tender turkey, creamy avocado, and fresh veggies are stacked between slices of hearty whole grain bread. It’s a nutritious and delicious sandwich that you’ll love.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Knife, cutting board
No. of Ingredients: 8
Ingredients:
- 4 slices whole grain bread
- 8 oz sliced turkey breast
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread mayonnaise on each slice of bread.
- Layer turkey, avocado, tomato, red onion, and mixed greens on two slices of bread.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread.
Serve with: A side of baby carrots.
Drink with: A chilled bottle of water or iced tea.
6. Greek Yogurt and Fruit Parfait
Start your day right with this Greek Yogurt and Fruit Parfait. Creamy Greek yogurt is layered with fresh, juicy berries and crunchy granola for a breakfast that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy start to your morning.
Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Spoon, parfait glasses
No. of Ingredients: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Greek yogurt
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/2 cup granola
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
- In parfait glasses, layer Greek yogurt, berries, and granola.
- Drizzle with honey.
- Repeat layers until glasses are full.
Serve with: A side of whole grain toast.
Drink with: Freshly squeezed orange juice.
7. Caprese Salad
This Caprese Salad is a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil are drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a dish that’s light, refreshing, and utterly delicious. It’s perfect as a starter or a light main course.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Knife, cutting board
No. of Ingredients: 5
Ingredients:
- 4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter.
- Tuck basil leaves between slices.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper if desired.
Serve with: A slice of crusty baguette.
Drink with: A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.
8. Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls
These Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls are a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to customize. Fluffy rice, seasoned black beans, and fresh toppings like avocado and salsa come together in a bowl that’s satisfying and nutritious. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Saucepan, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Divide cooked rice between bowls.
- Top with black beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, and salsa.
- Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Serve with: Tortilla chips.
Drink with: A cold Mexican beer or lime-infused sparkling water.
9. Tuna Salad Stuffed Avocados
These Tuna Salad Stuffed Avocados are a creamy, flavorful delight. The smooth avocado halves are filled with a tangy tuna salad, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s a perfect low-carb lunch or light dinner option.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl, spoon
No. of Ingredients: 8
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the tuna salad into the avocado halves.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Serve with: A side salad or fresh veggies.
Drink with: A glass of sparkling water with lemon.
10. Chickpea and Spinach Salad
This Chickpea and Spinach Salad is a nutrient-packed powerhouse. Tender chickpeas and fresh spinach are tossed with vibrant vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a healthy lunch or side.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Toss to coat and season with salt and pepper.
Serve with: Pita bread.
Drink with: A refreshing iced herbal tea.
11. Sushi Rolls
Make your own sushi at home with these easy and fun Sushi Rolls. Filled with your choice of fresh fish, veggies, and sticky rice, these rolls are as delicious as they are fun to make. Perfect for a hands-on dinner party or a creative cooking project.
Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Equipment: Sushi mat, knife
No. of Ingredients: 7
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and cooled
- 4 nori sheets
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 lb sushi-grade fish (salmon, tuna)
- Soy sauce for serving
- Pickled ginger and wasabi for serving
Instructions:
- Place a nori sheet on a sushi mat.
- Spread a thin layer of rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
- Arrange cucumber, avocado, and fish in a line across the rice.
- Roll up tightly using the mat.
- Slice into pieces and serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.
Serve with: Miso soup.
Drink with: Green tea or sake.
12. Pita and Hummus with Fresh Veggies
Enjoy a light and healthy snack with Pita and Hummus with Fresh Veggies. Creamy hummus pairs perfectly with soft pita bread and a variety of crisp, fresh vegetables. It’s a great option for a midday snack or a casual appetizer.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Knife, cutting board
No. of Ingredients: 5
Ingredients:
- 4 pita bread rounds
- 1 cup hummus
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, cut into sticks
Instructions:
- Warm pita bread if desired and cut into wedges.
- Arrange pita wedges, cucumber, bell pepper, and carrot sticks on a platter.
- Serve with hummus.
Serve with: Olives or a small Greek salad.
Drink with: Sparkling water or a light, crisp white wine.
13. Thai Chicken Salad
This Thai Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to excite your taste buds. Tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs are tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing for a salad that’s light yet satisfying.
Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Equipment: Mixing bowl, skillet
No. of Ingredients: 10
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, greens, carrots, bell pepper, cilantro, and mint.
- In a small bowl, mix lime juice, fish sauce, and Sriracha.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts before serving.
Serve with: Jasmine rice.
Drink with: Thai iced tea or coconut water.
14. Shrimp and Mango Salad
This Shrimp and Mango Salad is a refreshing and tropical delight. Sweet, juicy mango pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp, crisp veggies, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s a light and vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm weather.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Caribbean
Equipment: Mixing bowl, skillet
No. of Ingredients: 9
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, cooked and peeled
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 mango, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp, mixed greens, mango, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
Serve with: A side of coconut rice.
Drink with: A tropical fruit smoothie or iced tea.
15. Mediterranean Grain Bowl
This Mediterranean Grain Bowl is a hearty and nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor. Featuring a mix of whole grains, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Customize it with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients for a meal you’ll love.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Saucepan, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or farro
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup hummus
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa or farro, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the grain bowl and toss to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and a dollop of hummus.
Serve with: Pita bread or a side of tabbouleh.
Drink with: A glass of iced mint tea or a light white wine.
