Grab These 73 Healthy Lunch Recipes When You Can't Bear One More Boring Salad

spicy salmon, seasoned sushi rice, cucumber, pickled cabbage, carrot, and avocado, all wrapped in nori and served with sriracha soy mayo
73 Healthy Packed Lunch RecipesPHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: TIFFANY SCHLEIGH

At this point, it's a well-known reality that when you're at work (whether it's at your office or home), trying to eat healthier at lunch time can be tricky. We know healthy doesn’t have to mean boring, but it’s almost too easy to fall into a rut when you’re packing or making your lunch 5+ days a week. Don’t even get us started on how easy it is to ditch that healthy habit and start hitting the takeout spots. Sound familiar? We’ve got you. Whether you’re looking for salads or wraps, grain bowls or sandwiches, we’ve got a ton of healthy recipes here for you. Bonus: You’ll save a ton of $$$ on takeout and delivery (win win!). Check out our 73 healthy packed lunches for ideas—once you start bringing these, you might never go back to boring, expensive lunches again.

We know health looks different to different people, so we’ve included options for a variety of diets here, like low-carb, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free. Looking for something low-carb? Try our low-carb turkey gyro bowls, our reuben bowls, or our Philly cheesesteak lettuce wraps. They’re full of flavor, but skip the bread and tortillas. (Hot tip: If you are cool with bread and tortillas, these recipes are killer all wrapped up too!) Craving a plant-based lunch? Check out our vegan crunchwraps, our warm tahini ramen noodles, our veggie burgers, or our caramelized tofu lettuce cups. They're great whether you're ditching meat for life or just for lunch. Love a rice bowl? Us too. Get inspired by the flavors of our copycat Chipotle burrito bowls, our halal cart-style cauliflower bowls, our goddess bowls, or our hot honey chicken & rice bowls. Swap in healthier, nutty brown rice when you can, and then swap in and out your favorite toppings 'til you find your perfect bowl. Craving a good old fashioned salad? Try our BBQ chicken salad, our crispy chili-lime chickpea salad, our taco salad, or our Caribbean Cobb salad. They’ll help you feel full, and will keep you going 'til dinnertime.

Speaking of getting through 'til dinner, check out our healthy snacks for work. They're just the pick-me-up to get you through whatever your work day throws at you. Need something to carry it all in? Check out our top lunch containers too.

Black Bean Tostadas

With only 5 ingredients, these black bean tostadas are the easiest and fastest meal to throw together. You can always add on additional toppings like corn salsa, avocado ranch, or endless crunchy veggies like radishes or pickled red onions, but here we keep things simple.

Get the Black Bean Tostadas recipe.

tostadas topped with black beans, cheese, and avocado slices
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Sushi Sandwich (Onigirazu)

Inspired by the popular Japanese onigirazu, this is like a cross between sushi and a sandwich. We filled ours with spicy salmon, seasoned sushi rice, cucumber, pickled cabbage, carrot, and avocado—then wrapped it in nori to make it extra portable. Serve it with plenty of the sriracha-soy mayo on the side!

Get the Sushi Sandwich (Onigirazu) recipe.

spicy salmon, seasoned sushi rice, cucumber, pickled cabbage, carrot, and avocado, all wrapped in nori and served with sriracha soy mayo
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: TIFFANY SCHLEIGH

Crispy Chili-Lime Chickpea Salad

Spicy, creamy, and crunchy—this satisfying chickpea salad hits all the notes. It’s like cowboy caviar took a trip to Baja California!

Get the Crispy Chili-Lime Chickpea Salad recipe.

salad tossed with crispy chickpeas, avocado slices, red onions, sliced tomatoes, corn, and topped with herbs and cheese
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Halal Cart-Style Cauliflower Bowl

In this vegan recipe, spiced cauliflower joins forces with a bright and fresh tomato salad, crunchy toppings, and a homemade vegan halal cart-style sauce. You won't miss the meat!

Get the Halal Cart-Style Cauliflower Bowl recipe.

roasted cauliflower in a bowl with tomato salad, crushed pita, onions on top of rice and drizzled with white halal cart style sauce
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Grilled Chicken Salad

This grilled chicken salad—filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado—is the healthy summer dinner we tend to make again and again. If you're vegetarian, try subbing in hard-boiled eggs for the chicken!

Get the Grilled Chicken Salad recipe.

salad topped with sliced grilled chicken, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Grilled Fish Sandwich With Slaw & Tzatziki

Not only is this sandwich absolutely gorgeous (we can thank turmeric for its golden hue!), it also comes together in a flash. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect summer grilling recipe to shake up your average lunch game.

Get the Grilled Fish Sandwich With Slaw & Tzatziki recipe.

grilled fish sandwich with slaw and tzatziki on a multigrain bun
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Turkey Lavash Wraps

Filled with a zingy arugula-dill salad, sliced turkey, roasted red peppers, and crunchy cucumbers, and sealed with a creamy goat cheese spread, this wrap is exactly the kind of colorful meal we crave to brighten up our weekdays. Make a few, then wrap 'em in foil, and you'll be set for lunch all week.

Get the Turkey Lavash Wraps recipe.

tortilla wrap with turkey, spinach, cucumbers, and red peppers
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Taco Salad

When it comes to healthy salads, none are more hearty than a taco salad. Load it up with veggies, cheese, and ground beef for the perfect satisfying lunch. We love this classic version, but if you want to get fancy, feel free to swap in and out your fave toppings.

Get the Taco Salad recipe.

romaine salad topped with ground beef, sour cream, black beans, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, diced red onion, fried tortilla strips, and cilantro
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Goddess Bowls

A good sauce changes everything, and this green goddess dressing is one of our favorites yet. The veggies here are interchangeable, but in the spirit of goddess dressing, we think green is the way to go. Roasted asparagus, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are all good choices.

Get the Goddess Bowls recipe.

goddess bowls with chicken, asparagus, avocado and tomatoes drizzled with a creamy, green dressing
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Pinwheel sandwiches are here with their totally retro swirls, ready to be packed into lunchboxes or eaten as an afternoon snack. To make them, you'll layer flour tortillas with ranch-flavored mayonnaise, sliced cheese, deli meats, and lettuce. All that's left to do is roll them up tightly and slice. Simple!

Get the Pinwheel Sandwiches recipe.

pinwheel sandwiches
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Sesame Tofu & Broccoli

In this vegetarian version of a Chinese-American favorite, oven-baked tofu gets tossed in a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce along with crisp-tender broccoli, then topped with toasty sesame seeds and scallions. With a side of white rice, you’re guaranteed a saucy, crowd-pleasing lunch.

Get the Sesame Tofu & Broccoli recipe.

crispy baked tofu tossed with a sweet and savory chili spiked sesame sauce and crisp tender broccoli
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Big Mac Salad

Got a craving for a Big Mac, but avoiding the drive-thru? This salad is for you—it's got everything you love, minus the bun!

Get the Big Mac Salad recipe.

romaine lettuce topped with ground beef, pickles, shredded cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of mac sauce
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

This wrap is just as easy to customize as it is to make. Feel free to adjust the spices to add more or less heat, swap out the slaw for lettuce, the blue cheese sauce with ranch dressing, use cauliflower or tofu instead of meat, or try Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.

Get the Buffalo Chicken Wrap recipe.

buffalo chicken wrap
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Ultimate Veggie Sandwich

There's something so special and refreshing about a sandwich that is absolutely packed to the gills with veggies. The miso eggplant in here makes this one extra special.

Get the Ultimate Veggie Sandwich recipe.

ultimate veggie sandwich macro vertical
Andrew Bui

Greek Salad Cottage Cheese Bowls

It wouldn’t be a Mediterranean menu without a Greek salad in some form or another—these cottage cheese bowls fit the bill. Packed with protein, nutrient-rich vegetables, and healthy fats (not to mention a whole lot of flavor), they’re the perfect anytime vegetarian meal.

Get the Greek Salad Cottage Cheese Bowls recipe.

cottage cheese, soft boiled eggs, and a cucumber tomato salad topped with pita chips
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Peanut Chicken Protein Bowls

We've created countless bowls that we love, but when we're craving a chicken dinner (or packed lunch), then we turn to this peanut chicken bowl. With a homemade peanut dressing, sliced chicken, sweet potato, spinach, and avocado, this healthy dinner is one we love to meal prep at the beginning of the week, then assemble and feast on all week long.

Get the Peanut Chicken Protein Bowl recipe.

sliced chicken in a grain bowl with sweet potatoes, avocados, spinach and a peanut dressing
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Rainbow Collard Green Wrap

Colorful bunches of shredded purple cabbage, carrots, yellow bell peppers, sliced avocado, alfalfa sprouts, and crimson red sauerkraut are rolled into big collard green leaves like a burrito. We like to serve each wrap with a simple creamy dipping sauce made with tahini, maple syrup, cider vinegar, and sesame seeds. No need to wonder what's for lunch anymore.

Get the Rainbow Collard Green Wrap recipe.

collard green wrap filled with shredded purple cabbage, grated carrots, yellow bell pepper, avocado, alfalfa sprouts and red sauerkraut
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps

You won't miss the hoagie in these low-carb Philly Cheesesteak lettuce wraps. Yes, they're made with provolone—NOT Cheez Whiz. And before you get all riled up, no, they're not in any way authentic. We'll be the first to admit it!

Get the Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps recipe.

philly cheesesteak with cheese and peppers in lettuce wraps
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups

These peanut chicken wonton cups are super simple to put together and packed with flavor. Tender shredded rotisserie chicken gets tossed in a spicy-sweet peanut sauce, stuffed in a crispy baked wonton shell, and topped with bright, colorful, and crunchy veggies to make this app or packable lunch.

Get the Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups recipe.

shredded rotisserie chicken gets tossed in a spicy sweet peanut sauce, stuffed in a crispy baked wonton shell, and topped with bright, colorful, and crunchy veggies to make this easy two bite app
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Indian Butter Chickpeas

Looking for your new favorite way to dress up canned chickpeas? You’re in the right place. Simmered in an aromatic tomato gravy, this vegetarian spin on classic butter chicken will forever change the way you look at a can of beans.

Get the Indian Butter Chickpeas recipe.

indian butter chickpeas and rice in a bowl with pita
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

One Skillet Creamy Thai Basil Chicken

This totally delicious mashup of coconut rice and Thai basil chicken gets lunch done in one skillet. It's typically served over steamed rice, but pairing it with coconut rice and eating it as a lettuce wrap is a great way to switch up the dish.

Get the One Skillet Creamy Thai Basil Chicken recipe.

one skillet creamy thai basil chicken
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Black Bean Burgers

Plant-based burgers can be difficult to create: they need to hold their shape, have a tender, not-mushy texture, and taste delicious. In this black bean burger recipe, we've nailed all three by focusing on making the flavor the best it can be instead of trying to make these patties replicate the taste of beef.

Get the Black Bean Burgers recipe.

black bean burgers with tomato, lettuce, red onion, and avocado
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Best Chicken Salad

Classic chicken salad is a delicious lunch staple that expertly combines well-seasoned chicken, a rich mayo dressing, plenty of fresh celery, and a touch of acid. We'd argue that our balance of add-ins here is the pinnacle, but once you nail the chicken and the dressing, you can feel free to spread your wings and give it your own personal flair.

Get the Best Chicken Salad recipe.

best chicken salad
ANDREW BUI

Panera Thai Chicken Salad

If you were shocked and dismayed when Panera Bread discontinued their Thai Chicken Salad, today’s your lucky day. Featuring chicken breast, blistered vegetables, and that iconic peanut sauce drizzle, our copycat version of this beloved Panera classic allows you to enjoy it at home any time you like.

Get the Panera Thai Chicken Salad recipe.

panera thai chicken salad in a bowl
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Low-Carb Turkey Gyro Bowls

With tender spiced meat, crunchy fresh veggies, tzatziki, and chewy pita, it's not hard to see why gyros are so globally beloved. Inspired by this popular sandwich, we created this healthy but hearty bowl that's perfect for a light dinner.

Get the Low-Carb Turkey Gyro Bowls recipe.

ground turkey with cauliflower rice, cucumber salad, and tzatziki
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Veggie Burgers

Veggie burgers might seem like the obligatory vegetarian alternative at a grill-out, but that doesn’t mean they can’t taste glorious in their own right. Whether charred on the grill or cooked to caramelized perfection in a cast-iron pan, these veggie burgers will make even meat lovers decide to go meatless for a meal.

Get the Veggie Burgers recipe.

a cross section of a veggie burger topped with tomato, red onion, and chipotle mayo
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Caramelized Tofu Lettuce Cups

Sweet, sour, and salty, these lettuce cups are ripe for improvisation and can be served with all sorts of accompaniments. Crunchy raw vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots can add heft, and a drizzle of chili oil is a must for spice lovers. If lettuce isn’t cutting it, a heaping spoonful of rice is a perfect pairing too.

Get the Caramelized Tofu Lettuce Cups recipe.

caramelized tofu lettuce cups
ANDREW BUI

Greek Stuffed Peppers

Filled with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives and sharp crumbled feta, these tender stuffed peppers have all the flavors you love from a Greek salad, plus a hearty addition from herby chicken breast and couscous.

Get the Greek Stuffed Peppers recipe.

greek stuffed peppers
JOEL GOLDBERG

Chicken Caesar Wraps

Ask a random Delish employee what they’re going to order for lunch from a deli, and at least half of them will respond with a chicken Caesar wrap. And there’s very little question as to why! It’s one of the all-time best salads, tossed into a wrap. It’s simple yet timeless, like many of our favorite recipes are.

Get the Chicken Caesar Wraps recipe.

chicken caesar wraps
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

While we’re all about switching things up, when we want a tried-and-true perfect meal, we always go back to the chicken burrito bowl at Chipotle. It’s classic, reliable, and, best of all, completely customizable depending on our mood. We’ve included copycat recipes here for all our favorite burrito bowl toppings, but feel free to swap them in and out for yours!

Get the Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl recipe.

copycat chipotle burrito bowl
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING BARRETT WASHBURNE

Copycat Big Mac

With double patties, three buns, melty cheese and the iconic special sauce, it has all the components of a perfect burger. That's why we decided to try our hand at making it at home. Trust us—once you've made this iconic fast food dish at home, you may never go through the drive-thru again.

Get the Copycat Big Mac recipe.

two patties stacked between three buns with melted cheese, lettuce, onions, and special sauce
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: TIFFANY SCHLEIGH

Sushi Bake

Recipes only go viral when they’re insanely good or insanely bad, and this sushi bake falls firmly at the top of the “insanely good” list. This easy casserole is the perfect entry point for trying your hand at making sushi at home or introducing sushi to picky kiddos. Plus, it’s exactly like your favorite spicy roll.

Get the Sushi Bake recipe.

seasoned sushi rice and spicy chopped crab baked and topped with sriracha, kewpie mayo, avocado, cucumber, and furikake
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI ; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Thai-Inspired Basil Beef Bowls

Pad krapow is Thailand’s most popular stir-fry dish for a reason. It’s got saucy ground meat tossed with sliced bell peppers, spicy chiles, and a handful of fresh, sweet basil, served over steaming rice. As an added bonus, it’s usually accompanied by a runny fried egg, making this a filling and wallet-friendly meal. Our take on this super-simple dish is the perfect protein-packed meal prep that’ll keep you excited to eat all week.

Get the Thai-Inspired Basil Beef Bowls recipe.

thai inspired basil beef with carrots, bell peppers, and green onion in meal prep containers with rice
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Cottage Cheese Alfredo

This classic creamy sauce already had a place in our hearts, but adding cottage cheese and spinach took the love to new heights. The cottage cheese-based sauce comes together in a blender or food processor in a few seconds, then simmered to thick, velvety, cheesy perfection before getting tossed with fresh spinach and al dente fettuccine.

Get the Cottage Cheese Alfredo recipe.

creamy high protein cottage cheese alfredo with spinach and fettuccine
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl

Attention, Sweetgreen lovers! Your regular weekday lunch is about to get an instant upgrade. Loaded with roast chicken, sweet potato, and that signature balsamic vinaigrette, our copycat version of Sweetgreen’s beloved harvest bowl will make your favorite takeout lunch an everyday reality.

Get the Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl recipe.

copycat sweetgreen harvest bowl
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Egg Roll Bowls

If you're a fan of crispy savory egg rolls, then you might consider this unwrapped version your dream lunch. Without the need to wrap or fry, this veggie-packed meal comes together in well under an hour. Garnish with crispy raw scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and plenty of sriracha or chili oil.

Get the Egg Roll Bowls recipe.

ground pork, cabbage and carrot in a bowl
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Steak Grain Bowl

A double-purpose chimichurri acts as a marinade for the steak and a finishing sauce for these bowls; the not-too-spicy jalapeño sauce provides a tangy, creamy counterpoint—plus, its versatility means it can go on anything and everything (read: make extra, and put it on everything).

Get the Steak Grain Bowl recipe.

steak grain bowls
Hearst Owned

Stuffed Peppers

The bell pepper is an excellent vessel for stuffing ground beef (or turkey or chicken!), rice, and, of course, cheese. It's strong enough to hold its shape in the oven, and the flavor is subtle enough to go well with just about anything. This is our favorite recipe but the customization options are endless.

Get the Stuffed Peppers recipe.

colorful stuffed peppers with ground beef and tomato rice
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Greek Chickpea Salad

We’re no strangers to a great chickpea salad, so coming up with a Greek-inspired one was a no-brainer. It’s got all the flavors you love from Greek salad, turned into something more substantial and filling that pairs well with almost anything. It’s wonderful on its own, or served alongside chicken, seafood, or steak for a complete lunch.

Get the Greek Chickpea Salad recipe.

creamy greek chickpea salad with crumbled feta
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Creamy Tomato Vegan Pasta

Rich and creamy with deep tomato flavor, this is the vegan pasta to make if you're a lifelong dairy lover. Vegan or not, this indulgent pasta is sure to have looking forward to lunch.

Get the Creamy Tomato Vegan Pasta recipe.

creamy tomato vegan pasta
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Copycat Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme

We're so obsessed with Taco Bell’s Crunchwrap Supreme, we made this copycat recipe so we can enjoy it whenever a craving hits. Our favorite part? Making sure the beef is as lean as we like (and adding guacamole for free!).

Get the Copycat Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme recipe.

copycat crunchwrap supreme
ETHAN CALABRESE

Reuben Bowls

No explanation necessary. Just all the things you love about a Reuben sandwich—in a bowl.

Get the Reuben Bowls recipe.

reuben bowls
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MARY RUPP

Vegetarian Italian Sub

The king of sandwiches is the Italian Hero. The meats are a huge part of the draw, but so are the veggies: the olives, peppers, ice cold shredded lettuce, and paper thin onions are what really have us craving the sandwich over and over again. With this in mind, we sub the meat for planks of zucchini and eggplant that are just as satisfying.

Get the Vegetarian Italian Sub recipe.

vegetarian italian sub stuffed with eggplant, zucchini and olive salad
ANDREW BUI

BBQ Chicken Salad

Some salads are sides, but not this one: Juicy grilled BBQ chicken sits alongside festive South-of-the-border-inspired toppings like black beans, corn, cheese, and tortilla strips. Put that on top of some crunchy romaine and drizzle it with BBQ sauce and ranch dressing, and you’ve got yourself a hearty meal you’ll look forward to eating again and again for lunch.

Get the BBQ Chicken Salad recipe.

bbq chicken salad with barbecue sauce, chicken, toppings, and a creamy dressing
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Roasted Vegetable Baked Falafel Sandwiches

Although these shortcut falafel aren’t as crispy as the classic fried variety, they develop a nice golden crust and contain all the key spices. A zippy roasted pepper salad is the perfect foil, and creamy tahini sauce (aka tarator sauce) ties it all together.

Get the Roasted Vegetable Baked Falafel Sandwiches recipe.

baked falafel sandwiches
Joel goldberg

Warm Tahini Ramen Noodles

This quick and satisfying meal lands somewhere between savory instant ramen and creamy peanut noodles, sub tahini. Throw in your favorite raw veggies for a dish that's healthy, filling, and delicious (the trifecta!). For a little extra oomph, whisk part of a ramen flavor packet little by little, tasting and adjusting along the way.

Get the Warm Tahini Ramen Noodles recipe.

warm tahini ramen noodles
Joel goldberg

Caribbean Cobb Salad

A bit brighter than the traditional Cobb salad, this version combines fresh mango, creamy coconut dressing, and spiced salmon to create a punchy, spicy, filling meal. Crushed plantain chips and sweet bell pepper add a satisfying crunch. Feel free to swap out chicken, shrimp, or whatever protein you’re in the mood for come lunchtime.

Get the Caribbean Cobb Salad recipe.

caribbean cobb salad
Andrew bui

Greek Orzo Salad

Move aside plain ol' pasta salad—orzo is here to shake things up. While we love it in comforting, warming dishes (we're looking at you, creamy Tuscan orz0) it also makes for a great salad base. This easy, fresh recipe is filled with all of our favorite bright Mediterranean flavors and mix-ins, like sweet tomatoes, briny olives, cucumber, and tangy feta.

Get the Greek Orzo Salad recipe.

greek orzo salad with olives, cucumber, tomatoes, feta, and fresh dill
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS

One-Pan Balsamic Chicken & Asparagus

Chicken, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes are all cooked alongside a sharp, acidic, yet sweet homemade balsamic glaze in this recipe, so you can enjoy a lunch with maximum flavor and minimum cleanup.

Get the One-Pan Balsamic Chicken & Asparagus recipe.

one pan balsamic chicken and asparagus
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Copycat Chicken Lettuce Wraps

In our attempt to copy the fan favorite from PF. Chang's, we flavored ground chicken with hoisin sauce (a fermented bean paste that gives the chicken the quintessential Chinese-American flavor), soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sriracha, and sesame oil. Water chestnuts add a nice crunch here, too.

Get the Copycat Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe.

asian chicken lettuce wraps
PARKER FEIERBACH

Lamb Gyro

Pronounced YEE-roh or ZHEE-roh (it rhymes with hero), these flatbread sandwiches are packed with delicious spiced lamb, crunchy fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy herb-and-cucumber yogurt tzatziki sauce. If you pack one for lunch, you'll look forward to it all morning long.

Get the Lamb Gyro recipe.

gyro sandwich with lamb, tzatziki, lettuce, tomato and onion in a pita
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Stuffed Banana Peppers

When it comes to stuffing peppers, the sky’s the limit. You’ll find plenty of recipes online that suggest stuffing with cream cheese, Italian sausage (because why not, right?), and even tuna, but this one features a classic meatball filling with melted mozzarella, Parm, and some warm marinara sauce, but in a whole new vehicle: banana peppers.

Get the Stuffed Banana Peppers recipe.

banana peppers stuffed with pork and beef on a sheet pan topped with melted cheese
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Craving fast food come lunch time, but trying to avoid the processed foods (and the lines!)? Make a Big Mac Crunchwrap at home instead. It's everything you love about both fast food treats, all in one.

Get the Big Mac Crunchwrap recipe.

big mac crunchwrap
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Tuscan Chicken Wrap

We just can’t get enough Tuscan chicken, so this time, it’s in wrap form for quite possibly the easiest and most flavorful lunch you can make. It’s got chopped rotisserie chicken, creamy mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, plenty of fresh spinach, and a simple sauce you're going to want to make again and again.

Get the Tuscan Chicken Wrap recipe.

whole wheat wrap spread with parmesan herb mayonnaise and wrapped around chopped rotisserie chicken, creamy fresh mozzarella, spinach, and cherry tomatoes
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Cacio E Pepe Sweet Potato Noodles

Looking to convert a spiralized veggie skeptic? Make them these cacio e pepe sweet potato noodles. Tossed in buttery black pepper sauce and showered with Parmesan and Pecorino, these sweet potato noodles are so delicious that no one will even think about asking for “regular” pasta.

Get the Cacio E Pepe Sweet Potato Noodles recipe.

cacio e pepe sweet potato noodles
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Copycat Panera Bread Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

As much fruit salad as it was green salad, Panera's beloved salad featured a juicy orange and onion poppyseed dressing and pops of fresh fruit, like strawberries, blueberries, Mandarin oranges, and pineapple. We’re hoping it’ll one day return to the Panera menu so we can order it alongside other faves, but in the meantime, it’s easy to make at home so you can enjoy it whenever you want.

Get the Copycat Panera Bread Strawberry Poppyseed Salad recipe.

copycat panera bread strawberry poppyseed salad with chicken, mandarin oranges, blueberries, strawberries, and pecans
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING BARRETT WASHBURNE

Strawberry Chicken Cobb Salad

The gang's all here in this Cobb salad, except with some big-time upgrades. Strawberries stand in for the standard tomatoes, while feta takes the place of blue cheese. Fear not, there's still an extra-creamy buttermilk-based dressing that coats every bite.

Get the Strawberry Chicken Cobb Salad recipe.

strawberry chicken cobb salad
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Roasted Chickpea & Avocado Salad

The tahini-ranch here is a lightened-up dressing that is better than any bottle you could buy. It, plus crunchy chickpeas, creamy avocado, and feta, make this a perfect summer salad for lunch or a picnic!

Get the Roasted Chickpea & Avocado Salad recipe.

roasted chickpea and avocado salad
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Tired of your same old Caesar salad? Add chicken and penne pasta to transform it into the lunch (or BBQ side dish) of your dreams.

Get the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe.

close up of chicken caesar pasta salad with romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, croutons, penne, and shave parmesan
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS

Avocado Chicken Salad

We love this salad served on top of greens as much as we love it between two slices of sourdough bread. If you can't find a good ripe mango, pineapple would be delicious as well!

Get the Avocado Chicken Salad recipe.

avocado chicken salad
Emily Hlavac Green

Rainbow Roll

Rainbow rolls include a lot of elements of traditional Japanese sushi—seasoned rice, raw fish, nori—but the composition is definitely Americanized. This inside-out roll (or uramaki) has rice on the outside, while the sheet of nori on the inside holds the avocado, cucumber, and crab in place. Top your rolls with sushi-grade fish, or get creative and try thinly sliced avocado, roasted red peppers, or smoked salmon.

Get the Rainbow Roll recipe.

rainbow roll
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps

No bread? No problem. Doubling up on romaine leaves insures a mess-free lunch, sans the carbs. If you're looking for more lettuce cup recipes try these easy Thai chicken lettuce cups next!

Get the Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps recipe.

turkey taco lettuce wraps topped with cilantro, red onion, avocado, and tomatoes
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Curried Chickpea Salad

With this curried chickpea salad recipe, you have a simple, fast, meatless way to satisfy your craving for a curried chicken salad. Instead of the raisins you might find in the classic, we added fresh red bell pepper and red onion for some vegetal sweetness and a bit of bite. Yum!

Get the Curried Chickpea Salad recipe.

curried chickpea salad
Erik bernstein

Best-Ever Quiche

Quiche is a favorite in the canon of classic dishes, and our version is no exception. Soft, creamy filling studded with ham, chives, and Gruyère rests inside a crunchy, buttery pie crust to create the anytime meal of your dreams.

Get the Best-Ever Quiche recipe.

ham and cheese quiche with a slice cut out beside a salad bowl
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Vegan Crunchwraps

We updated the fast food favorite to be totally vegan and completely irresistible. Creamy vegan queso dip and meaty lentils make a satisfying filling while a quick trip in a hot skillet adds crunch to every bite.

Get the Vegan Crunchwraps recipe.

vegan crunch wrap
Hearst Owned

Sweet Chili Chicken Lettuce Cups

Getting tired of making the same ol' chicken breast recipe? Shake up your routine with these easy and delicious lettuce wraps. Loaded with crunchy fresh veggies and flavorful marinated chicken, all you need is a squeeze of lime juice to tie everything together.

Get the Sweet Chili Chicken Lettuce Cups recipe.

sweet chili chicken lettuce cups
PARKER FEIERBACH

Italian Antipasto Brussels Sprouts Salad

Piled high with a variety of cheeses, slices of cured meats, and briny veggies, an antipasto platter is a beautiful sight to behold. If you too love the famed spread and want to enjoy its flavors in as many ways as possible, you've gotta make this Brussels sprouts salad next.

Get the Italian Antipasto Brussels Sprouts Salad recipe.

brussels sprouts salad with olives, tomatoes, red onions, shaved parmesan, and salami
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Chicken-Avocado Caprese Salad

To make this salad, we stuck with the simplicity of a Caprese, just adding grilled balsamic chicken, creamy avocado, and a little romaine for crunch. The result is a simple salad that is still refreshing and light, but also satisfying enough to keep you full till dinner.

Get the Chicken-Avocado Caprese Salad recipe.

chicken avocado caprese salad in a bowl with balsamic dressing
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Greek Salmon Salad

This gorgeous salad is hearty enough to be dinner, which means it'll get you through even the longest of workdays for lunch too. While the salmon is cooking, you can get all of your veggie chopping done too, and it'll all come together in less than 30 minutes.

Get the Greek Salmon Salad recipe.

greek salmon salad
ANDREW BUI

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

The chicken here gets tossed in a hot honey you make yourself, while quick pickled cucumbers add a much needed crunch to the bowl. Drizzle any extra honey from the pan over the bowls for an extra kick. or add in some pickled jalapeños if you're a true spice lover.

Get the Hot Honey Chicken Bowls recipe.

hot honey chicken bowls
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: RILEY WOFFORD

Chirashi Bowls

Chirashizushi (ちらし寿司) translates to "scattered sushi" and is a style of sushi that entails exactly what the name suggests: pieces of sashimi over sushi rice. Chirashizushi—or chirashi bowls—are probably the simplest way to enjoy what you love about healthy sushi without having to learn how to roll maki.

Get the Chirashi Bowls recipe.

chirashi bowls with salmon, tuna and shrimp
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Chickpea "Tuna" Salad

When we say you won't miss the tuna, we mean it; this creamy, zingy, crunchy salad will satisfy all your canned fish cravings. Keep a can of chickpeas in your pantry at all times, and this easy lunch sandwich will always be only 5 minutes away.

Get the Chickpea "Tuna" Salad recipe.

chickpea tuna salad
Suzanne Clements

Vegan Antipasto Chopped Salad

If, like us, you can’t resist a good olive bar, this recipe was made for you. Perfect as a main and even better paired with vegan pizza, this zesty, crunchy salad is an Italian flavor bomb.

Get the Vegan Antipasto Chopped Salad recipe.

vegan antipasto salad with artichoke hearts, kalamatas, red onion, tomatoes, pepperoncinis, orange peppers, and chickpeas atop romaine in a blue and white striped bowl
ANDREW BUI

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