Lunch doesn’t have to be complicated to be good. These 17 simple meals are all about making your day easier, not harder. No more wasting time wondering what to eat or how to make it—these recipes are straightforward and quick. When you need a lunch that’s hassle-free and still hits the spot, these ideas are exactly what you’re looking for.
Nonna’s Pastina Soup
If you’re feeling under the weather or just need a quick lunchtime pick-me-up, Nonna’s Pastina Soup is your go-to comfort food. Its simplicity is its strength, offering a soothing meal ready in minutes, perfect for those hectic days. It’s been loved for generations, bringing a touch of warmth and family to your dining table. Ideal for kids and adults alike, this soup represents a staple of home cooking without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Nonna’s Pastina Soup
Horiatiki Salad
Have this salad, and enjoy a meal that brings the essence of fun to your palate any day. When you want a refreshing break from your routine, Horiatiki Salad packs a punch of freshness that’s hard to beat. Originating from sunny climes, it brings a splash of color and crunch to your lunch. It’s straightforward, with ingredients that remain raw, retaining their full nutritional value. Perfect for days when you crave a lighter meal.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad
Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup
On a cool day, nothing warms like a bowl of Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup. Its rich base complements any meal, making it a favorite for anyone seeking comfort in their lunch choice. Reinvent your midday eating with a soup that feels like a cozy blanket in edible form. This version allows you to recreate a restaurant favorite from the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup
White Bean Salad
Give this a try and watch it become a regular in your meal prep plans. For those who enjoy a meal that’s both filling and nutritious, White Bean Salad serves as a perfect choice. This salad balances heartiness with health, offering a satisfying yet light option for lunch. It pairs wonderfully with your favorite dressing, though it’s flavorful enough on its own. Ideal for busy bees, this dish can be prepared ahead for several days.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Salad
Leftover Steak Quesadilla
Turn yesterday’s dinner into today’s lunch delight with a Leftover Steak Quesadilla. This dish is not only smart and economical; it also transforms leftovers into something exciting. It’s perfect for those who hate waste but love flavorful meals. Quick to make and even quicker to disappear, these quesadillas could easily become your next lunchtime staple. Try it once, and you’ll be looking forward to leftovers in a whole new way.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla
Shirazi Salad
Brighten up your lunch with a bowl of Shirazi Salad, a dish that’s as vibrant in taste as it is in appearance. It’s light, which makes it an excellent choice for a lunch that won’t weigh you down. Originally from a region known for its rich culinary heritage, this salad taps into a tradition of freshness and simplicity. Enjoy it by itself or as a side to complement any main dish. It’s the kind of salad that might just steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad
Turkey & Apple Panini
The combination of turkey and apple in a panini might sound unusual, but it’s an absolute winner for a lunch with a twist. Turkey & Apple Panini brings together sweet and tasty in every bite, providing a well-rounded flavor profile. It’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover turkey, making it a savvy choice for economically minded diners. Pressed to perfection, this sandwich delivers a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This Mexican Street Corn Salad brings the festive feel of street fairs right to your lunchbox. This dish is all about bold flavors and fun textures, making lunchtime an event to look forward to. It’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to present on a plate, turning any meal into a small celebration. A perfect option for those who love a little excitement in their food, it proves that salads don’t have to be boring at all.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Seafood Chowder
If you’re a fan of rich, comforting bowls of goodness, then Seafood Chowder will be right up your alley. It’s a hearty dish that satisfies hunger with its dense and creamy texture. Ideal for those days when you need something a bit more substantial, it delivers flavor in every spoonful. This chowder is a nod to maritime traditions and is bound to become a favorite. Don’t miss out on this filling dish that truly warms the soul.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
This Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes offers a substantial base for a fulfilling lunch. It combines different textures and flavors to keep your palate interested. Perfect for health-conscious individuals, it’s packed with nutrients that fuel the rest of your day. This salad is particularly great for active folks needing a boost of energy midday. Give it a whirl; it’s a wholesome way to jazz up your lunch routine.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Turkey Chaffwich
Embrace a change with this sandwich, and add a new favorite to your list. Reinvent your sandwich game with Turkey Chaffwich, a quirky yet delicious take on the traditional lunch staple. It’s an inventive way to bring new life to turkey leftovers or deli slices. Its unique composition makes it more interesting than your average sandwich, sparking joy in your midday meal. Ideal for those who like a little creativity with their cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chaffwich
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Spice up your salad scene with a Tex-Mex Caesar Salad, blending classic elements with bold, southwestern flavors. This salad strikes an excellent balance between familiar and exciting, making it a superb choice for anyone looking to mix things up. It’s robust enough to stand as a meal on its own but also pairs nicely with a lighter side. Tailor it to your taste with additions or enjoy as is.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich
Want something hearty? Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich is loaded with flavors that satisfy deep hunger. It’s crafted to mimic the hearty meals served in firehouses, known for feeding the brave souls who work long shifts. This sandwich is both comforting and fulfilling, making it an excellent pick for those extra long days. When you’re in need of something substantial, this sandwich steps up to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Enjoy the convenience and delight of Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad for a lunch that combines ease with flair. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate a time-saving yet delicious meal. The blend of tender chicken with pasta creates a fulfilling base, complemented by a variety of flavors throughout. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends when you want something fulfilling yet not too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Pastrami Reuben Sandwich
Indulge in a Pastrami Reuben Sandwich; it’s just the right kind of indulgent for a midday meal. Each layer is packed with taste—every bite is a testament to classic deli fare. It’s particularly perfect for those with a hearty appetite looking to satiate their hunger with something substantial. This sandwich has a loyal following, and once you try it, you’ll understand why. It’s an experience that keeps people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
This Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes is not your typical lunch salad. It’s a blend of sweet and tasty, bringing together two seemingly disparate elements in harmony. This choice is excellent for those looking to refresh their salad routine with something distinctly different. The grilling brings out a rich depth of flavor in the peaches, which complements the freshness of the tomatoes beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
Discover the pleasure of dipping your sandwich with Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich, a delicious twist on a classic. This dish replicates the famous Cole’s creation, renowned for its tender meat and flavorful au jus. It’s perfect for dipping; each bite invites you to enjoy a bit more. Whether you’re at home or in the office, this sandwich makes lunch an occasion to anticipate. Appreciate the ritual of dipping.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich