Looking for a flavorful and delicious lunch that can be prepared quickly even on the busiest weekdays? You’re not alone! Many of us struggle to come up with new and exciting lunch ideas that can be made in no time. In this article, we’ve compiled 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make lunch recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic comfort food dishes to international flavors and healthy options, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy professional or a student looking for a quick and satisfying meal, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to spice up their lunch routine.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish, featuring grilled chicken and a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and basil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add grilled chicken to the sauce and stir to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Toss until well coated with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
This spicy and savory salad combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the heat of chili flakes, all wrapped up in a refreshing noodle dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and chili flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, peanut sauce, cilantro, bell pepper, and carrots. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Loaded Veggie Quesadillas with Avocado Crema
Get ready to take your quesadilla game to the next level with this flavorful and filling recipe, packed with roasted vegetables and creamy avocado sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup roasted bell peppers, diced
– 1/2 cup roasted zucchini, diced
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and jalapeño.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with half of the cheese, and top with roasted vegetable mixture.
4. Fold tortilla in half, cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese melts and tortilla is crispy.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve with Avocado Crema and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Feta Wrap
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with the warmth of Mediterranean spices, the creaminess of feta cheese, and the nutty taste of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red onion, cucumber, or tomato for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in foil and heating for 5 minutes.
4. Spoon the chickpea mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap to form a neat package.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon with Quinoa
Elevate your dinner game with this easy-to-make Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon recipe, served with a nutty quinoa side dish. The sweet and spicy glaze adds a depth of flavor to the tender salmon fillet.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve the glazed salmon with cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring tender portobello mushrooms stuffed with a creamy blend of mozzarella, tomato, and basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese-tomato mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Get ready to devour these mouthwatering sliders packed with tender, smoky pulled pork and topped with a tangy coleslaw. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices and chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
3. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Pour in BBQ sauce and cover with lid.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or until tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks. Strain excess liquid, if needed.
6. Split hamburger buns and toast lightly.
7. Assemble sliders by spooning pulled pork onto toasted buns, then topping with coleslaw. Add pickle slices and cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (or 4-5 hours on high heat)
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic stir-fry, this recipe combines succulent shrimp, tender asparagus, and a hint of lemon zest for a flavorful and refreshing dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the asparagus and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl
Savory beef, crunchy broccoli, and fluffy rice come together in harmony in this easy and flavorful Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips according to package instructions or grill until medium-rare.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked rice, beef strips, and broccoli in a bowl. Drizzle with the teriyaki sauce mixture and toss to coat.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, cheesy, and deliciously savory stuffed chicken recipe. With a flavorful blend of spinach, artichoke hearts, and melted cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and create a horizontal slit in each breast to form a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the artichoke-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew
Warm up with this aromatic and nutritious stew that combines the comfort of sweet potatoes with the nutritional boost of lentils, all infused with the bold flavors of Morocco.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils, sweet potato, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or cilantro (if desired). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos with Blue Cheese Drizzle
A twist on traditional tacos, these Buffalo cauliflower bites are tossed in spicy buffalo sauce and crispy fried to perfection. Serve them in a taco shell with a tangy blue cheese drizzle for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Taco shells
– Blue cheese crumbles (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss cauliflower florets in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
4. Dip flour-coated cauliflower in buffalo wing sauce, then roll in panko breadcrumbs to coat.
5. Fry breaded cauliflower in hot oil (about 1-2 inches deep) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain fried cauliflower on paper towels and serve in taco shells with blue cheese drizzle.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Veggies
A flavorful and easy one-pan dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. This recipe combines juicy chicken, bright lemon zest, and fragrant herbs with a variety of colorful roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken, garlic, thyme, and rosemary; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Arrange the bell pepper, zucchini, and squash in a single layer around the chicken.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this classic Bibimbap recipe, elevated by a rich and spicy Gochujang sauce. This signature Korean dish is a harmonious blend of warm rice, colorful vegetables, and savory meat, all topped with a fried egg and served with a side of sweet and spicy Gochujang sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded zucchini, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1/2 cup diced beef or pork
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat a non-stick pan with sesame oil, add mixed vegetables, and cook until tender.
3. Add diced meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as needed.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together Gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of water.
5. To assemble the Bibimbap, place cooked rice in a bowl, top with vegetables and meat mixture, and finish with a fried egg.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and served with a side of additional Gochujang sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This vibrant salad combines the creamy richness of pesto with the tender texture of tortellini and the burst of flavor from sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, pesto, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
3. Toss gently to combine, season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired (optional).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe brings together the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the savory flavors of black beans, corn, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean and corn mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers.
6. Place the peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Gyro Salad with Tzatziki Dressing
Experience the flavors of Greece with this refreshing salad, featuring juicy gyro meat, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy tzatziki dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked gyro meat (beef and lamb)
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Tzatziki Dressing (see below)
Tzatziki Dressing:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, gyro meat, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
3. Serve immediately, topped with Tzatziki Dressing.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and flavorful vegetables in a rich Cajun-inspired broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and Cajun seasoning; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the shrimp and chicken broth; stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet and simmer until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps
This refreshing recipe combines creamy avocado with protein-packed tuna, wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves – a perfect light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 can of tuna (drained), flaked
– 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the diced avocado, flaked tuna, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the tuna salad onto each lettuce leaf.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep time only)
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with these tender and flavorful garlic butter steak bites served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add steak cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Mash potatoes with milk or half-and-half until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place steak bites on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve steak bites atop mashed potatoes and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes