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17 Quick Lunches That Won’t Have You Eyeing the Clock

Are you tired of watching the minutes tick by as you wait for your microwave meal? There has to be a better way, right? We’ve all been in that situation where we’re swamped with work and need a quick and simple solution for a midday meal. Well, worry no more because we know exactly the struggle and have come up with a series of meal solutions that might just solve your problem.

Let’s face it; we all need more hours added to our busy days. Lunch shouldn’t be a task, it should be an easy and enjoyable break. But the reality is when the stomach grumbles amidst your hectic schedule, you require food that can be prepared quickly. And we’re not just talking about plain old sandwiches or dull salads, we’re gearing up for some quick yet exciting lunch ideas that can be thrown together in no motion at all.

No, these aren’t intricate culinary masterpieces, but they are yummy, easy-to-prepare meals that won’t consume your lunch break. Time should be on your side, especially during lunch! So, dismiss those uninspiring microwave mishaps, shake off the shackles of time-consuming preparation, and embrace simplicity. With these speedy lunch ideas up your sleeve, you’ll no longer be watching the clock, but enjoying every minute of your meal break!

A Pastrami Reuben sandwich on a plate with chips and pickles.
Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

When you’re short on time but craving something hearty, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts comes to the rescue. It blends sweet and nutty flavors for a quick lunch that feels gourmet without the fuss. Ideal for a busy day, it’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Forget watching the clock; this lunch lets you make the most of your break.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Shirazi Salad

For a light and refreshing option, look no further than Shirazi Salad. This dish brings a fresh perspective to your lunch routine, combining simple ingredients for a burst of flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for squeezing into a tight schedule. Say goodbye to boring lunches with this vibrant choice.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Air fried chicken fries with dipping sauce on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Chicken Fries. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Say hello to effortless cooking with Air Fryer Chicken Fries. Crispy, satisfying, and ready in no time, they’re a game-changer for lunch. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these chicken fries offer a fun twist on a classic. Enjoy a no-fuss meal that leaves you more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fries

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Salmon Pasta Salad

Bringing together the best of two worlds, Salmon Pasta Salad is a must-try for those seeking variety. It’s light yet filling, offering a satisfying meal without weighing you down. This dish is ideal for anyone wanting to spice up their lunch game with minimal effort. Enjoy the ease of a pasta dish with the richness of salmon in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brisket Fried Rice

If you’re in the mood for something uniquely satisfying, Brisket Fried Rice has got you covered. It reinvents leftovers, transforming them into a mouthwatering lunch that’s both comforting and quick to prepare. With this dish, you’ll look forward to your lunch break all morning. Get ready for a flavor-packed experience that doesn’t skimp on convenience.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Ham & Asparagus Pizza brings a delightful twist to your lunchtime favorites. Combining the savory taste of ham with the freshness of asparagus, it’s a pizza like no other. Fast to assemble and even faster to disappear, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for when you’re craving homemade pizza with a gourmet flair.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Four pizza muffins on a white plate with flowers.
Pizza Muffins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pizza Muffins

Pizza Muffins offer a fun and portable take on everyone’s favorite dish. They’re packed with all the flavors you love, ready to enjoy in just minutes. These muffins are perfect for on-the-go lunches or a quick snack, proving that good things come in small packages. Get ready to transform your lunch routine with these bite-sized wonders.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Muffins

Cheez-Its Tostada

Sometimes, all you need is a little creativity, and Cheez-Its Tostada is here to provide just that. This dish combines the crunch of Cheez-Its with the beloved tostada structure for a lunch that’s out of the ordinary. Quick to assemble and hilarious to eat, it’s a surefire way to shake up your day. Who knew lunch could be so fun and satisfying?
Get the Recipe: Cheez-Its Tostada

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Steak & Pasta Salad

Steak & Pasta Salad takes your lunch to the next level with a hearty and delicious combination that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for those days when you can’t decide between steak or pasta. This dish ensures you don’t have to compromise, giving you the best of both worlds. Enjoy a lunch that’s filling, flavorful, and fast.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Cuban Sandwich Casserole is your answer to a quick lunch that feeds more than just one. It’s easy to assemble and brings all the beloved flavors of a traditional Cuban sandwich in a convenient casserole form. This dish is perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Dive into a lunch that’s both time-saving and tantalizing.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pesto Orzo Salad

Pesto Orzo Salad is a light and easy lunch option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With its simple preparation and fresh taste, it’s ideal for those looking to brighten their midday meal. This dish offers a delightful twist on classic pasta salad, making your lunch hour something to look forward to. It’s the perfect way to add some zest to your day without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Enjoy the convenience and comfort of Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. This dish utilizes rotisserie chicken for a flavorful, time-saving lunch that’s both satisfying and simple to put together. It’s an ideal choice for those busy days when time is of the essence but you still want a meal that feels home-cooked. Treat yourself to a hassle-free lunch that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reuben Sliders

Reuben Sliders offer a compact yet delicious way to enjoy a classic. These sliders pack all the flavors you love in a size that’s perfect for lunch. Quick to assemble and even quicker to devour, they’re a great choice for a no-fuss meal that’s full of character. Get ready for a lunch that’s both familiar and excitingly different.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich brings a classic deli experience right to your kitchen. It’s the perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors, all wrapped up in a sandwich that’s sure to please. Quick to prepare, this lunchtime hero saves the day when you need something satisfying on the go. Enjoy a deli favorite that makes lunch look easy.
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

An open-face NY Steamer sub copycat on a plate with Italian dressing.
Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich is here to add some excitement to your lunch routine. This sandwich is packed with flavor and ready in a snap, perfect for those who want something a little different. It’s a hearty option that promises to keep you full and satisfied throughout the afternoon. Enjoy the taste of convenience with a sandwich that stands out from the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Turkey Pot Pie Soup combines the comforting flavors of a classic pot pie with the ease of a soup. It’s a hearty, warming choice for lunch, especially on chilly days. This dish proves that you can enjoy the comforts of home cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. Savor a lunch that wraps you up in warmth and satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Cream of Jalapeno Soup in two bowls.
Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Cream of Jalapeno Soup offers a spicy twist to your lunchtime selections. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for midday, combining warmth with a kick of spice. Easy to whip up, this soup is ideal for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine. Embrace the flavors that wake up your senses and keep you energized for the day ahead.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup

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