Making enough time in our lives to prepare a healthy and satisfying lunch is too much sometimes. In the midst of a frenzy of work and other needs the lunch converts into a hasty meal or is not eaten at all. That is why a set of simple lunch recipes is an ultimate lifesaver to any schedule.
Forget settling for boring sandwiches or expensive takeout. We have curated a list of delicious, simple, and quick meal ideas that don’t compromise on flavor. These are simple recipes and I am sure you do not have to sweat much to get a delicious lunch. Choose to make your lunch time more exciting with these extraordinary choices.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Lunch Recipes
During days that are hectic, you require lunch ideas that are convenient and delightful. These were the recipes that were specifically selected due to the meeting of the key requirements of a healthiest lunch. They are certainly the best solution to those who are in need of a fast lunch ideas.
First and foremost, they are incredibly fast to prepare. All the recipes take no more than 15 minutes and leave more time available. They are also full of nutrients to help you power you through the afternoon without having that energy slump. These must certainly be among the best easy lunch ideas which can help you to be productive.
Recipe 1: 15-Minute Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This quinoa salad is spicy and delicious; it is the ultimate healthy refreshing lunch. It is light, loaded with fresh veggies and protein and does not have to be cooked in case you prepare some quinoa in advance. It’s a perfect example of a nutritious and easy lunch recipe.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked Quinoa | 1 cup |
| Cherry Tomatoes, halved | 1/2 cup |
| Cucumber, diced | 1/2 cup |
| Red Onion, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Kalamata Olives, halved | 1/4 cup |
| Feta Cheese, crumbled | 1/4 cup |
| Chickpeas, rinsed | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh Parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and Black Pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Toss the cooked quinoa in a deep bowl with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, chickpeas and feta cheese.
In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture.
Toss gently until all the ingredients are well-coated.
To make the dish brighter add fresh parsley at the last minute of serving.
Eat at once or refrigerate and keep as a tasty ready-made meal.
Time Table
| Category | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0 minutes (with pre-cooked quinoa) |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Serving Size | Serves 2 |
Recipe 2: Speedy Black Bean & Corn Quesadillas
When you are hungry and want something warm and comforting these black bean and corn quesadillas are ready in no time. They are delightfully cheesy, gratifyingly crunchy and incredibly easy to put together. It is one of the favorite hot, quick lunch ideas.
Ingredients for Black Bean Quesadillas
Flour Tortillas: 4 medium-sized Canned Black Beans: 1 cup, rinsed and drained Canned or Frozen Corn: 1 cup Shredded Cheese: 1 cup (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well) Taco Seasoning: 1 teaspoon Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tablespoon Optional Toppings: Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a medium bowl mix the black beans, corn and taco seasoning.
In a large non-stick pan or skillet, heat on medium heat. Lightly grease it with olive oil or butter.
Place one tortilla in the warm pan. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the entire surface.
Top half of tortilla with half of black bean and corn mixture.
Fold the remainder of the tortilla on top of the stuffing, and push it lightly with the aid of a spatula.
Fry them on both sides until tortilla is golden and crispy and the cheese have completely melted (2-3 minutes each side).
Remove from the pan and cut into wedges. Repeat the process for the second quesadilla.
To eat serve hot and top with whatever suits you i.e. salsa or a spoonful of sour cream.
Time Table
| Category | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Serving Size | Serves 2 |
Recipe 3: 5-Minute Creamy Avocado Toast with a Twist
Avocado toast is a modern classic for a reason: it’s simple, fast, and endlessly customizable. This is one version that puts a few majors in it to make it more of a wholesome meal rather than just being a snack. It’s the ultimate easy lunch recipe for when you’re short on time.
Ingredients for Avocado Toast
Bread: 2 thick slices (sourdough or whole grain is excellent) Ripe Avocado: 1 large Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste) Everything Bagel Seasoning: 1 teaspoon Feta Cheese: 2 tablespoons, crumbled (optional) Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Toast your slices of bread till they are the right crispiness you want.
Crush the avocado and lemon juice with pepper, salt in the bowl. Keep it slightly chunky for better texture.
Place the mash avocado on the hot pieces of toast and spread evenly.
Sprinkles the red pepper flakes and the Everything Bagel Seasoning on top.
Add crumbled feta cheese on top in case you want it to be extra savory.
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Time Table
| Category | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 2-3 minutes (for toasting) |
| Total Time | ~8 minutes |
| Serving Size | Serves 1-2 |
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Lunches
It is one thing to make great lunch but to make it always easy is one thing. These are the hints that will help you speed up your lunch process and make the best of these recipes.
Meal Prep Is Fantastic
Do you have a little time at the weekend to prep your ingredients. Boil quart of quinoa, cut up vegetables such as onions and peppers, or combine the black bean and corn filling. This will only make your easy lunch recipes take very little time to put at the start of the week.
Stock inventory
Keep important non perishable items in hand. Great staples would include canned beans, canned corn, quinoa, tortillas, and other seasonings. This makes you prepared at all times to have a fast meal without making a rush trip to the grocery store.
Don’t Be Afraid to Customize
Use these recipes as a template. Just add grilled chicken that you have left over to the quinoa salad, add a handful of spinach to the quesadillas or add an extra protein by putting the fried egg on top of the avocado toast. Customization keeps things interesting.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Lunch Solutions
Having such delicious and easy lunch suggestions, the middle of the day meal is a no-longer-stress situation. Each of these options proves that you don’t need a lot of time to create something delicious and nourishing. I state that adopting these simple lunch food will assist you to re-take your lunch break.
We would recommend you to take a chance and try these recipes and let them impress your daily lives. Did you add your own unique twist? We would love to hear about it! Post your experience in the comments, or send this article to a friend that needs some lunch ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to make such lunches in advance to work?
Absolutely. Our Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is ideal to meal prep: all you need to do is store the dressing in a different container and pour it in only when you are ready to eat and preserve freshness. The filling of quesadilla can be prepared in advance, and the only thing you need to do during lunch time is to plate and bake it.
What are some other protein options I can add?
These recipes are very versatile. In the quinoa salad, you may want to add grilled chicken, shrimp or even, a boiled hard-boiled egg. On the quesadillas, you can put shredded chicken or turkey meat. This offers the opportunity of adding a fried egg to the top of the avocado toast or smoked salmon to deliver a huge protein.
Are these recipes kid-friendly?
Yes, they can easily be adapted for children. Children usually adore the cheesy delights of quesadillas; you can make it either with cheese alone, or with the hidden beans and corn. You can also use the quinoa salad to add something new in terms of their texture, which you can change depending on the preferences of your child.