What can you eat for lunch besides sandwiches?
If you’re someone who’s always on-the-go and relying on quick fixes for meals, sandwiches are probably your go-to. But let’s face it, eating the same thing every day can get old. If you’re reading this post, chances are you’re looking for something new and exciting to add to your lunch repertoire. Lucky for you, there are plenty of healthy and delicious cold lunch ideas that can be prepared in no time.
Many of these options can also be meal prepped the night or a week before, making them perfect for busy days. When it comes to finding the perfect cold lunch, it’s all about striking the right balance between protein, healthy fats, and ease of digestion. With that said, here are some popular and tasty options that fit the bill:* Wraps: These can be made with a variety of wraps, giving you endless possibilities.
Some ideas include chicken caesar wrap, chicken buffalo wrap, banana wrap, veggie wrap, and more.* Salads: A salad only gets old if you’re using the same ingredients every day. Mix it up by adding new ingredients, seasonings, and sauces to keep things interesting. Plus, you can meal prep your own lunch bowls the night before!* Pasta or spaghetti salad: This one’s a surprise hit! The coldness of the pasta or spaghetti is actually what makes it so tasty as a lunch option.
* Chickpeas and avocados: These ingredients are surprisingly better when they’re cold than when they’re hot. Plus, they can be incorporated into all sorts of dishes, from veggie wraps to salad bowls.
What can I have for lunch without a microwave?
While some people may not have access to a microwave, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a variety of delicious meals. In fact, there are many foods that taste just as good, if not better, when served at room temperature. A classic example is the humble sandwich – simply fill it with your favorite ingredients and you’re good to go. Grain bowls are another great option, as they often retain their flavor even after a few hours.
Salads, nuts, dried fruits, oatmeal, and fresh fruits like apples and pears also fit into this category. Additionally, avocados and chickpeas can be enjoyed without reheating, making them perfect for a quick and easy snack or meal.
Cold lunch ideas
While the absence of a microwave or refrigerator may seem like a limitation for preparing healthy meals, it’s actually an opportunity to explore a world of cold delights. In fact, there are many dishes and appetizers that not only survive but thrive when served at room temperature or even chilled. So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your next meal, look no further than these quick and easy-to-make cold lunch ideas.
Dill Pickle Chicken Salad (Whole30, Low Carb)
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures in Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. This delectable recipe combines the tender and juicy essence of oven-baked, slow-cooked or Instant Pot chicken with the satisfying crunch of pickles, the pungency of red onion, the freshness of dill, the richness of mayo, and a hint of garlic. Explore the simplicity of this delightful salad here.
Easy Ranch Pasta Salad – Go To Recipe
When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing bowl of Easy Ranch Pasta Salad. This beloved recipe has become my trusted sidekick for summer gatherings – from casual BBQs to cozy family dinners. And the best part? It’s incredibly straightforward to prepare!
Chickpea Salad Cucumber Boats
Savoring the simplicity of a sweltering summer day just got a whole lot tastier with these Chickpea Salad Cucumber Boats. Not only do they offer a respite from the heat, but they’re also a nutritious and adaptable option for anyone following a gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick and easy meal or simply seeking a refreshing snack, these boats are sure to satisfy.
Italian Marinated Green Bean Salad
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures in this revitalizing marinated green bean salad. The harmonious blend of crunchy red onions, protein-rich chickpeas, and a tangy homemade Italian dressing creates a truly satisfying vegan side dish perfect for warm-weather gatherings like summer potlucks and cookouts. With its abundance of nutrients, this refreshing recipe is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Vegan Italian Pasta Salad
This delectable vegan ‘cheesy’ Italian Pasta Salad recipe truly deserves rave reviews. The allure of pasta salad stems from its versatility, ease of preparation, and impressive flavor profile. It’s a crowd-pleaser, to say the least.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant quinoa salad, a perfect blend of healthy and delicious. The dish stars tender quinoa, which is lovingly mixed with fresh basil pesto, artichokes, Kalamata olives, and sweet cherry tomatoes. This salad not only makes for an excellent side dish but also serves as a satisfying meatless main course option.
Apricot Almond Chicken Salad
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures in this delectable apricot almond chicken salad, made with tender white meat chicken, succulent sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and a hint of tanginess from fresh tarragon. The perfect harmony of ingredients comes together to create a truly mouthwatering experience. Check it out here.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad | Orzo Salad Recipe
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable orzo salad, perfect as both a side dish and a satisfying lunch. A medley of mouthwatering ingredients including chickpeas, olives, artichoke hearts, crumbled feta cheese, and nutty orzo pasta come together in harmony with a zesty lemony jalapeno dressing that adds an extra layer of excitement. You can find the recipe details here.
Peanut Crunch Salad in a Jar
Indulge in a protein-packed, delectable lunch that’s as effortless as it is satisfying. Our Peanut Crunch Salad in a Jar recipe is a meal prep dream come true! Simply prepare a batch on Sunday and you’ll have a stash of grab-and-go lunches waiting for you in the fridge all week long.
Leftover Spaghetti Frittata
There’s something truly special about a leftover spaghetti frittata – it’s a culinary delight that never fails to impress. Whether you’re working with cold, cooked pasta from the fridge or boiling some fresh for the occasion, this authentic Italian dish is perfect for a variety of settings. From picnics and lunches to leisurely brunches, it’s an excellent choice for any meal. And if you’d like to learn more, be sure to check out [the link]!
Quinoa Cranberry Salad
This vibrant Quinoa Cranberry Salad is a symphony of fresh flavors that’s sure to delight anyone who tries it! By combining nutrient-dense spinach with the natural sweetness of dried cranberries and the tanginess of a zesty lemon dressing, you’ve got a dish that not only tastes amazing but also packs a nutritious punch. Whether you’re looking for a protein-rich main course or a refreshing side dish, this salad has got you covered.
Homemade Turkey Lunch Meat
In a surprisingly short amount of time, you can create your own scrumptious and nutritious turkey lunch meat right in the comfort of your own home. In fact, with just over 30 minutes of effort, you’ll be enjoying deliciously moist sandwich fillings that are not only healthier but also more cost-effective than their store-bought counterparts. And the best part? You can check out the simple process here.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Chickpeas
This delectable Cucumber and Tomato Salad is the epitome of summer refreshment, combining an assortment of juicy vegetables, nutritious chickpeas, and a zesty lemon-based dressing that brings everything together in perfect harmony.
Instant Pot Mujadara Lentils and Rice
Are you tired of living on a diet of plain old sandwiches? If so, it’s high time to spice things up with a flavorful and nutritious option like mujadara. This instant Pot recipe is a game-changer – combining the comforting warmth of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions in a deliciously fragrant vegetarian dish that’s ready in no time. No more settling for bland sandwiches every day!
Instructions
Discover a refreshing selection of Cold Lunch Ideas by exploring the link below each photo. Once you’ve found a recipe that catches your eye, click on it to access the full instructions and ingredients. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on Pinterest! This feature is brought to you by MomsHealth.co.