Only some workplaces have easy access to food options nearby or on-site. Still, the cost of buying lunch every day can add up, so while it’s easier to bring your own, you may need some help with new and exciting lunch ideas. After all, how many times do you want to eat the same sandwich or wrap? If you want to take your lunch to the next level, consider getting a little creative with some dishes that will please your taste buds.
1. Caprese
It can’t even be called a salad, and it can’t even be called a cheese plate. Caprese is a very light Italian dish made with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese, garnished with tomato slices and sweet basil leaves. Season with salt and olive oil, and drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar to make it even more delicious.
2. Elevator egg salad
Egg salad isn’t that creative. Unless, of course, you get creative. In addition to the standard mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and eggs, add a little caviar or tzatziki for extra flavor. Once you make a fancy egg salad for lunch, you’ll never go back to boring old recipes.
3. Zucchini bread
This food is also known as courgette slices in Australia. It’s a bit like a frittata, but a little richer. Contains zucchini, cheese, eggs, and bacon. After cooking, it’s delicious whether it’s hot or cold, so it’s perfect for lunch boxes.
4. Curry
Curry rice always tastes better the next day, but sometimes it tastes even better because the protein takes time to absorb the spices. Make a large amount for dinner or make a batch for the holidays. Heat it up and store it in a thermos container or thermos.
5. Charcuterie board
Charcuterie has a very upscale feel to it and makes you feel like you’re having your own finger food party at lunchtime. Eat cold rotisserie chicken or ham, crackers, cheese, olives, red peppers, nuts, cucumbers, and carrots. If you want something a little sweeter, bring some grapes or dried apricots and pack them in a lunch box with an insulated bag to keep them cold.
6. Crunchy vegetables and hummus
You can also make delicious hummus, and there are many delicious brands available in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store. Cut carrots, celery, peppers, cucumbers, etc. into sticks and dip them into your favorite hummus. You can also buy pita crackers!
7. Grilled chicken
Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Whether you prepare it ahead of time or buy a ready-made rotisserie at the grocery store, chicken is a great addition to a variety of lunch ideas. You can also top salads or mix it with grains like quinoa.
8. Onigiri
This sushi rice dish is for people who love sushi but aren’t ready to learn how to roll it. It can be eaten by scooping rice or seaweed with ingredients such as meat, tuna, or vegetables.
9. Frittata
Frittata is another egg dish that is delicious served hot or cold. You can also prepare them ahead of time using broccoli, peppers, carrots, and any other vegetables you can think of.
10. Tabbouleh
Chop the vegetables, especially tomatoes and cucumbers, add onions, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley and mint. Mix everything and let it sit in the refrigerator. Add rice and other toppings throughout the week to freshen up the flavors of this Levantine dish.
11. Pasta salad
If stored correctly, pasta salad will keep for up to 7 days, so making this dish in advance and taking it with you every day will save you a lot of time.
12. Empanadas
Empanadas don’t need to be opened or soggy and can be prepared days in advance, saving you time and money. You can also freeze it. Choose your favorite meat (or meatless) filling and, for an easy version, cut a piece of ready-made puff pastry.
13. Tuna Snack Kit
These are meals that are not as expensive as buying lunch outside and are already prepared and waiting at your local grocery store. It usually consists of flavored tuna and crackers, but can also include cheese, salad, and fruit to make it a complete meal.
14. Salmon patty
These are perfect for dinner, especially if you have canned salmon and mashed potatoes left in your pantry. It’s also perfect for lunch the next day.
15. Insulated lunch box to warm leftovers
Meals that need to be reheated can be stored in these. Prices range from $20 to $40 per insulated electric lunch box that plugs into your car or outlet. Most products come as a kit with a compartmented box, carrying bag, and two power cords.
16. Savory muffin
A standard muffin recipe makes 12 freezer-safe muffins. Just put one in your lunch box when you need it. There are so many options for these, but my personal favorites are feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add cream cheese when serving. It’s delicious!
17. Salad
There are so many types of salads. Unfortunately, many people imagine lots of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. In fact, entire recipe books and websites are dedicated to different salads. The trick is to keep the dressing separate until just before eating.
sauce: Reddit.
