20 Lunch Recipes That Will Make Your Coworkers Jealous

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Lunch is an important meal that gives you energy for the rest of your day. It’s a chance to take a break and enjoy some tasty food. You can make quick and easy lunches in 20 minutes or less with simple ingredients you probably have at home.

There are many yummy lunch options to choose from. You could make a sandwich, wrap, salad, or soup. Or try something different like pizza toast or an omelet. With so many choices, you’ll never get bored of lunch again.

Turkey And Cheese Sandwich

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty turkey and cheese sandwich:

  • 2 slices of bread
  • 2-3 slices of deli turkey
  • 1-2 slices of cheese (cheddar or Swiss work well)
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Sliced tomato
  • Mayonnaise
  • Mustard (optional)
  • Butter or margarine

To make your sandwich:

  1. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.

  2. Place one slice butter-side down in a skillet over medium heat.

  3. Layer the turkey, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on the bread in the pan.

  4. Spread mayo and mustard on the other slice of bread, then place it butter-side up on top.

  5. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip carefully.

  6. Cook another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and both sides are crispy.

  7. Remove from heat, let cool for a minute, then cut in half.

Enjoy your warm, gooey turkey and cheese sandwich! It’s perfect for a quick lunch or easy dinner.

Greek Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty Greek salad:

  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives
  • 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now let’s make your Greek salad:

  1. Chop the veggies and add them to a large bowl.

  2. Sprinkle the feta cheese and olives on top.

  3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  4. Pour the dressing over your salad.

  5. Gently toss everything together.

  6. Serve right away and enjoy your fresh Greek salad!

This easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. It’s full of crisp vegetables and tangy feta cheese. You can make it in just 15 minutes!

Chicken Caesar Wrap

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty chicken Caesar wrap:

Ingredients:

  • 1 large flour tortilla
  • 1/2 cup cooked, diced chicken
  • 1/4 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup croutons
  • Optional: 1 slice cooked bacon, crumbled

Directions:

  1. Lay your tortilla flat on a clean surface.

  2. Spread Caesar dressing in the center of the tortilla.

  3. Add the chopped romaine lettuce on top of the dressing.

  4. Sprinkle the diced chicken over the lettuce.

  5. Add Parmesan cheese and croutons.

  6. If using, add the crumbled bacon.

  7. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly.

  8. Cut the wrap in half diagonally.

Your chicken Caesar wrap is ready to enjoy! It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Tuna Salad

Here’s a tasty tuna salad recipe you can whip up for lunch in no time!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans tuna, drained
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, minced
  • 1 tablespoon pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Drain the tuna well and place it in a bowl.

  2. Break up the tuna with a fork.

  3. Add the mayo, celery, red onion, pickle relish, and lemon juice to the bowl.

  4. Mix all the ingredients gently until combined.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

  6. Taste and adjust flavors if needed.

Your tuna salad is ready! Enjoy it on bread for a sandwich, over lettuce for a light meal, or with crackers for a snack. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Veggie Burger

You’ll love this tasty veggie burger recipe! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Directions:

  1. Mash the black beans in a bowl until mostly smooth.

  2. Mix in the quinoa, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.

  3. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with chili powder and cumin. Add to the bean mixture.

  4. Stir in the BBQ sauce and breadcrumbs until combined.

  5. Form the mixture into 4 patties.

  6. Cook the patties in a greased pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side.

  7. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings. Enjoy your homemade veggie burgers!

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BLT Sandwich

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty BLT sandwich:

  • 4 slices of bread
  • 4-6 strips of bacon
  • 1-2 ripe tomatoes
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Mayonnaise
  • Salt and pepper (optional)

Now, let’s make your BLT:

  1. Cook the bacon until crispy. You can fry it in a pan or bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes.

  2. While the bacon cooks, slice your tomatoes and wash the lettuce.

  3. Toast the bread slices to your liking.

  4. Spread a thin layer of mayo on one side of each bread slice.

  5. Layer the ingredients on one slice of bread: lettuce, tomato slices, and bacon strips.

  6. If you want, sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper on the tomatoes for extra flavor.

  7. Top with the second slice of bread, mayo side down.

  8. Cut your sandwich in half if you’d like, and enjoy!

Feel free to add extras like avocado or a special sauce to make it your own. Happy eating!

Grilled Chicken Salad

Here’s a tasty grilled chicken salad recipe you can whip up for lunch!

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Marinate the chicken in 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning for 1 hour.

  2. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 400°F).

  3. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.

  4. While the chicken cooks, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard for the dressing.

  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it.

  6. In a large bowl, mix the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.

  7. Add the sliced chicken on top and drizzle with the dressing.

  8. Toss everything together and enjoy your delicious grilled chicken salad!

This salad is perfect for a light and refreshing lunch. You can add other veggies or toppings you like to make it your own!

Peanut Butter And Jelly Sandwich

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic PB&J:

  • 2 slices of bread
  • 2-3 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons jelly or jam
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Now, let’s put it together:

  1. Grab your two slices of bread.

  2. Spread peanut butter evenly on both slices. This helps prevent the jelly from making the bread soggy.

  3. On one slice, add your favorite jelly or jam.

  4. If you like, sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt on the jelly. It can really make the flavors pop!

  5. Put the two slices together, with the jelly side facing inward.

  6. Cut the sandwich diagonally if you want to feel fancy.

Your PB&J is ready to eat! Pack it for lunch or enjoy it right away. You can even experiment with different types of bread, nut butters, and jams to create your own special version.

Caprese Panini

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty Caprese panini:

• 2 slices crusty bread or focaccia
• 2-3 slices fresh mozzarella
• 1-2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons pesto
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Now let’s make your panini!

Start by spreading pesto on both slices of bread. Layer the mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves on one slice. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top with the other slice of bread.

Brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil. Place it in a preheated panini press or grill pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese starts to melt.

Let your panini cool for a minute before slicing it diagonally. Enjoy your warm, gooey Caprese panini!

This quick and easy sandwich is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The flavors of creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil will transport you straight to Italy.

Quinoa Bowl

Here’s a tasty quinoa bowl recipe you can whip up for lunch!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Directions:

  1. Rinse quinoa and add it to a pot with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

  2. While quinoa cooks, prepare the veggies and make the dressing by mixing all ingredients in a small bowl.

  3. Once quinoa is done, let it cool for a few minutes.

  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and parsley.

  5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine.

  6. Serve your quinoa bowl right away or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing cold lunch option.

Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap ingredients to make this quinoa bowl your own!

Ham And Swiss Wrap

Ingredients:

  • 1 large tortilla
  • 2 slices ham
  • 1 slice Swiss cheese
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Lettuce leaves
  • 2-3 slices tomato
  • 2-3 thin slices red onion

Directions:

  1. Lay your tortilla flat on a clean surface. Mix the mayo and mustard, then spread it evenly on the tortilla.

  2. Place the lettuce leaves in the center of the tortilla. Top with ham slices and Swiss cheese.

  3. Add tomato and red onion slices on top of the cheese.

  4. To wrap, fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom.

  5. Cut your wrap in half diagonally if you like. Enjoy your yummy ham and Swiss wrap!

This easy recipe takes just a few minutes to make. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. You can add other veggies you like too!

Egg Salad Sandwich

You’ll need:

  • 6 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 slices of bread

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs. Put them in a mixing bowl.

  2. Add mayo, mustard, onion, and chives to the eggs. Mix well.

  3. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.

  4. Spread the egg salad on 4 slices of bread.

  5. Top with the remaining bread slices.

  6. Cut the sandwiches in half if you like.

Your egg salad sandwiches are ready to eat! They’re perfect for a quick lunch or picnic. You can keep any leftover egg salad in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Chicken Noodle Soup

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.

  2. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute.

  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

  4. Add the shredded chicken, egg noodles, and thyme. Reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 minutes until noodles are tender.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Your chicken noodle soup is ready! It’s perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Enjoy your comforting bowl of homemade goodness!

Hummus And Veggie Wrap

You’ll love this tasty and nutritious lunch option! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 large tortilla wrap
  • 4 tablespoons hummus
  • 1/4 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/4 cup carrot, grated
  • Handful of mixed salad greens

Directions:

  1. Warm your tortilla wrap in the microwave for 10 seconds.

  2. Spread the hummus evenly on the wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.

  3. Layer your veggies in the center of the wrap. Start with the avocado, then add cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and carrot.

  4. Top with mixed salad greens.

  5. Fold in the sides of the wrap, then roll it up tightly from bottom to top.

  6. Cut your wrap in half and enjoy your healthy lunch!

Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand. This wrap is super flexible and always delicious!

Pasta Salad

Ready to make a tasty pasta salad? Here’s a simple recipe you can whip up for lunch!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and olives.

  3. Add the feta cheese to the bowl.

  4. In a small container, shake together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.

  6. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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Enjoy your homemade pasta salad! It’s perfect for a quick lunch or picnic meal.

Turkey Chili

You’ll love this tasty and healthy turkey chili! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 2 cans kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and peppers and cook for 5 minutes.

  2. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, broth, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.

  3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

This chili is perfect for chilly days or game nights. It’s packed with protein and veggies to keep you full. You can easily make it in your slow cooker too – just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or veggies. Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Avocado Toast

Ready to make a tasty lunch? Let’s whip up some yummy avocado toast! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices of bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: lemon juice, red pepper flakes, eggs

Directions:

  1. Toast your bread until it’s nice and golden.

  2. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a bowl.

  3. Mash the avocado with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.

  4. Spread the mashed avocado on your toasted bread.

  5. If you like, sprinkle some lemon juice or red pepper flakes on top.

  6. For extra protein, add a fried or poached egg on each slice.

And there you have it! Your avocado toast is ready to enjoy. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. Feel free to get creative with your toppings and make it your own!

Falafel Pita

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 pita breads
  • Olive oil for cooking
  • Toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, tahini sauce

Now, let’s make your falafel pita!

  1. Mash the chickpeas in a bowl. Mix in parsley, garlic, onion, flour, and spices.

  2. Form the mixture into small patties.

  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

  4. Warm your pita breads in a pan for about 1 minute per side.

  5. Cut the pitas in half to create pockets.

  6. Fill each pocket with falafel patties and your choice of toppings.

  7. Drizzle with tahini sauce and enjoy your homemade falafel pita!

This quick and easy recipe makes a tasty lunch that’s both filling and nutritious. You can prep the falafel mixture ahead of time to make assembling even faster on busy days.

Veggie And Cream Cheese Bagel

Here’s a tasty veggie and cream cheese bagel recipe you can whip up for lunch!

Ingredients:

  • 1 bagel
  • 3 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 1/4 avocado, sliced
  • 2 tomato slices
  • 3 cucumber slices
  • 2 thin red onion rings
  • Small handful of arugula
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Toast your bagel until it’s golden brown.

  2. Spread cream cheese evenly on both halves of the bagel.

  3. Layer the veggies on one half of the bagel: start with avocado, then tomato, cucumber, and red onion.

  4. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to your liking.

  5. Top with arugula and place the other bagel half on top.

  6. Press down gently to help the bagel stick together.

  7. Slice in half if you’d like, and enjoy your yummy veggie bagel!

This simple recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch. You can mix it up by trying different veggies or adding some hummus for extra flavor.

Lentil Soup

You’ll love this easy and delicious lentil soup recipe! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried lentils
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Directions:

  1. Rinse the lentils and set aside.

  2. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.

  3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

  4. Stir in lentils, broth, tomatoes, cumin, and paprika. Bring to a boil.

  5. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.

  6. Season with salt and pepper.

  7. Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Your hearty lentil soup is ready to enjoy! Serve it hot with some crusty bread for a comforting meal.