Quick Weekday Lunch Ideas for a Healthy and Delicious Break
Lunch is the most important meal of the day when you’re on a busy weekday. Here are some quick and healthy lunch ideas that you can try to keep your energy levels up and your health in check. These options include popular Thai dishes, classic sandwiches, simple salads, and even some standby comfort foods that are both easy to prepare and satisfying.
Thai-Inspired Rice Noodle Soup
For a quick and nutritious option, consider making Rice Noodle Soup, also known as “Kuai-Tiaw” in Thai. This dish not only provides a hearty and comforting base, but it’s also a great way to incorporate various vegetables and proteins into your lunch. You can customize it to your liking by adding ingredients such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. This soup is perfect for those who value a balance of flavors and textures in their meals.
Simple and Nutritious Salad
A simple yet delicious salad is another great choice for a busy weekday. I often opt for a romaine salad with cranberries, walnuts, cucumbers, blue cheese dressing, grape tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions. Salads not only provide a wide range of nutrients, but they are also a refreshing way to include fresh ingredients in your diet. My doctor recommended this meal plan as part of a weight loss program, which highlights its nutritional value and health benefits.
Quick and No-Cook Sandwiches
If you’re in the mood for something with more substance, a sandwich is a quick and easy solution. One of my favorite no-cook options is a sandwich made with slices of provolone cheese, tomatoes, Italian lunch meat, and kalamata olives. Adding a slice of Italian bread not only adds flavor but also makes the sandwich more filling. Another favorite is a pastrami and turkey sandwich with red onion, provolone cheese, banana peppers, and spicy brown mustard on marble rye bread. These sandwiches can be prepped in minutes and are perfect for a quick lunch.
Simple PBJ with a Twist
A classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich gets a healthier twist when you choose a low-sugar, all-natural peanut butter. You can even grind your own at stores like WinCo using honey-roasted peanuts for an extra special touch. Pair this with a banana and a pint of milk for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.
Grilled Cheese and Coleslaw
Heading to the office? A nearby bakery that grinds their own grains daily and bakes delicious bread is a bonus. One of my favorite quick lunches involves getting a grilled cheese sandwich on good bread and a side of coleslaw. It’s budget-friendly at just $6.25 and the combination of melted cheese and fresh coleslaw is incredibly delicious. Plus, the friendly folks at the bakery make it a pleasurable experience to pick up your lunch.
Sandwich Toastie for a Quick Meal
A simple egg, ham, and onion toastie is an excellent choice when you need something quick yet substantial. This sandwich is perfect for a busy morning or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. It’s simple to make, delicious, and satisfying.
Pre-Cooked Grilled Chicken for Variety
Another great option is to prepare grilled chicken breasts in advance. Grilled chicken can be used in various dishes or packed for lunch. I love making a side of pita bread with hummus and sliced chicken, adding extra olives, vegetables, and orange slices. It’s not only refreshing, but also easy to mix and match to keep your lunch interesting and nutritious.
Nachos for Variety and Convenience
For those who prefer a bit more excitement, nachos make a delightful and convenient lunch. A delicious version of nachos involves shredding cooked chicken, topping it with cheese, simmering or slow cooking it, and then adding diced tomatoes, avocado, and a plop of sour cream. Preheat the oven to 275°F for 10 minutes, turn it off, and let it stand for 5 more minutes to melt the cheese. Place it on a metal pan and bake for another 10 minutes. Add a handful of diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and sour cream on top. This simple yet delicious meal not only provides a good balance of flavors but is also quick to prepare.