25 Make-Ahead Work Lunch Recipes
Tired of the same old sad desk lunch? Do you find yourself staring longingly at your coworkers’ lunches, wishing you had something more exciting and, dare we say, delicious? Well, fret no more! We’ve compiled a list of 25 mouthwatering make-ahead work lunch recipes that will transform your midday meal from a chore into a highlight of your day.
From vibrant salads to comforting bowls and satisfying wraps, there’s something here for every palate. These recipes are not only tasty but also designed for convenience, meaning you can whip them up on a Sunday night and enjoy them all week long. Get ready to ditch the takeout and embrace a world of flavorful, homemade goodness!
Make-Ahead Quinoa Salad Recipe
This vibrant quinoa salad is packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized all afternoon. Toss cooked quinoa with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese and a lemon-herb vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.
Make-Ahead Mason Jar Salad Recipe
The ultimate grab-and-go lunch! Layer your ingredients strategically in a mason jar: dressing on the bottom, followed by hearty vegetables, protein (like grilled chicken or chickpeas), and leafy greens on top. When you’re ready to eat, just shake and enjoy!
Make-Ahead Chicken Caesar Wraps Recipe
A classic Caesar salad, reimagined as a portable wrap. Combine grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. Wrap it all up in a whole-wheat tortilla for a satisfying and easy-to-eat lunch.
Make-Ahead Lentil Soup Recipe
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This lentil soup is packed with vegetables and spices, making it both nutritious and delicious. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.
Make-Ahead Tuna Salad Sandwiches Recipe
Elevate your tuna salad game with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Add celery, red onion, and dill for extra flavor and crunch. Spread it on whole-wheat bread or crackers for a classic and satisfying lunch.
Make-Ahead Pasta Salad Recipe
A colorful and customizable pasta salad is always a winner. Cook your favorite pasta and toss it with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, and mozzarella balls. Add a simple vinaigrette or pesto for a flavorful lunch.
Make-Ahead Egg Salad Recipe
A protein-packed and budget-friendly lunch option. Mix hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise, mustard, and celery. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy it on toast, crackers, or in a sandwich.
Make-Ahead Black Bean Burgers Recipe
These flavorful black bean burgers are perfect for a vegetarian lunch. Serve them on a whole-wheat bun with your favorite toppings, like avocado, salsa, and lettuce.
Make-Ahead Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe
A hearty and satisfying bowl packed with protein and complex carbs. Combine cooked chicken, brown rice, and your favorite vegetables, like broccoli, carrots, and peas. Top with a flavorful sauce, like teriyaki or peanut sauce.
Make-Ahead Vegetarian Chili Recipe
A warm and comforting chili that’s perfect for a cold day. This vegetarian chili is packed with beans, vegetables, and spices, making it both nutritious and delicious. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Make-Ahead Turkey and Cranberry Wraps Recipe
A festive and flavorful wrap that’s perfect for the fall season. Combine sliced turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and lettuce in a whole-wheat tortilla for a satisfying and easy-to-eat lunch.
Make-Ahead Greek Salad Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a hot day. Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Toss with a simple vinaigrette and enjoy.
Make-Ahead Hummus and Veggie Wraps Recipe
A healthy and delicious wrap that’s perfect for a quick lunch. Spread hummus on a whole-wheat tortilla and add your favorite vegetables, like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Roll it up and enjoy!
Make-Ahead Chickpea Salad Sandwiches Recipe
A vegetarian twist on tuna salad that’s just as satisfying. Mash chickpeas with mayonnaise, celery, red onion, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy it on whole-wheat bread or crackers.
Make-Ahead Sausage and Pepper Sandwiches Recipe
A flavorful and satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for a hearty lunch. Cook sausage with bell peppers and onions. Serve it on a hoagie roll with your favorite toppings.
Make-Ahead Caprese Skewers Recipe
A simple and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for a light lunch. Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and enjoy.
Make-Ahead Chicken Salad Sandwiches Recipe
A classic and versatile lunch option. Combine cooked chicken with mayonnaise, celery, grapes, and pecans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy it on croissants, lettuce wraps, or whole-wheat bread.
Make-Ahead Spicy Peanut Noodles Recipe
These noodles have a flavorful and satisfying kick! Toss cooked noodles with peanut sauce, vegetables and spices. Enjoy them hot or cold.
Make-Ahead Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
A warm and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. Serve with a crusty bread.
Make-Ahead Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe
A burrito is a classic work lunch option that is easy to eat and contains a variety of components.
Make-Ahead Taco Salad Recipe
Make a salad bar your desk with this lunch option. With various beans and veggies, it provides the best experience.
Make-Ahead Corn Chowder Recipe
Perfect for a vegetarian lunch! This delicious chowder is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.
Make-Ahead Ramen Recipe
This is a great way to avoid the high sodium content of pre-packaged ramen. Prepare ramen the way you like it!
Make-Ahead Fruit Salad Recipe
A super light and refreshing snack for your work lunch! Provides the essential vitamins and nutrients.
Make-Ahead Pizza Muffins Recipe
Fun and tasty, easy to eat! Enjoy a new twist on the classic pizza in your lunch!