13 Lunchbox Ideas for Work and School That Feel New

If you’re tired of the same old lunch, it’s time for a change. With the new year here, why not try out some exciting ideas that will keep your taste buds satisfied? Simple yet flavorful meals can make lunchtime something to look forward to every day. These ideas are perfect for work or school, providing both variety and nutrition.

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Veggie-Packed Quinoa Salad

This quinoa salad is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a healthy, refreshing meal on the go. Packed with fiber-rich vegetables, it’s filling and full of vibrant flavors. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – it can easily be customized to fit any taste. Quinoa provides a high-protein base, while the veggies add a crunch and freshness that will keep you satisfied throughout the day. It’s a great option for a light but nourishing lunch at work or school.

For this salad, you will need 1 cup of cooked quinoa, one-half cup of cherry tomatoes halved, one-half cup of diced cucumber, and one-fourth cup of chopped red bell pepper. To dress the salad, use 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Start by cooking the quinoa according to the package instructions and allow it to cool. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and toss everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Pack it in a lunchbox and enjoy a fresh and filling meal!

Turkey and Avocado Wraps

Turkey and avocado wraps are a quick and satisfying lunch option for busy days. The creamy avocado balances the savory turkey, while the whole wheat wrap provides fiber for a fuller meal. This meal is simple to prepare but offers plenty of flavor, making it perfect for a school or work lunch. The added veggies like spinach or lettuce give it an extra crunch and freshness. It’s a great choice for a balanced, satisfying meal that’s easy to eat on the go.

To make these wraps, you’ll need 1 whole wheat wrap, 3 ounces of sliced turkey breast, one-half an avocado sliced, one-half cup of spinach leaves, and 1 tablespoon of mustard.

Lay the wrap flat on a clean surface and layer the turkey, avocado, and spinach in the center. If you like, spread mustard on the wrap for extra flavor. Fold the sides of the wrap inward and roll it tightly. Slice it in half to make it easier to eat, then wrap it in foil or parchment paper. Pack it in your lunchbox for a quick and nutritious meal!

Chickpea and Hummus Snack Box

A chickpea and hummus snack box makes for an easy-to-assemble, nutritious lunch that’s both satisfying and filling. Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, making them perfect for staying energized throughout the day. The creamy hummus pairs well with crunchy veggies, creating a tasty and wholesome combination. This option can be customized with your favorite fresh veggies like carrots or cucumber for extra crunch. It’s an excellent way to get plenty of plant-based nutrition in a convenient, portable lunch.

For this snack box, you will need one-half cup of canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed, one-fourth cup of hummus, one-half cup of sliced carrots, and one-half cup of sliced cucumber. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chickpeas and season with salt and pepper to taste.

In a small container, portion out the chickpeas and drizzle them with olive oil. Arrange the carrots and cucumber slices in a separate section of the lunchbox. Add a small container of hummus for dipping. Seal the lunchbox and pack it for a balanced snack box that’s easy to eat on the go. This snack box is both satisfying and nutritious, making it a great option for work or school.

Greek Yogurt Parfait

Greek yogurt parfaits are a delicious and customizable lunch option that’s perfect for a mid-day boost. The thick, creamy texture of Greek yogurt is complemented by crunchy granola and fresh fruit. This meal offers a good mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an energizing lunch choice. The variety of flavors and textures keep it interesting and enjoyable, while the portability makes it ideal for packing. It’s an excellent option for a refreshing, light lunch that still fills you up.

For the parfait, you will need 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, one-fourth cup of granola, one-half cup of mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries), and 1 teaspoon of honey.

Layer the Greek yogurt at the bottom of a small container, then top it with a layer of granola. Add the mixed berries on top and drizzle honey over the fruit for added sweetness, if desired. Seal the container with a lid and refrigerate until you’re ready to eat. This parfait is easy to make and full of fresh ingredients. It’s a tasty, nutritious lunch that can be enjoyed at work or school.

Grilled Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry

Grilled chicken and veggie stir-fry is a flavorful, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for busy days. The tender chicken breast combined with a variety of stir-fried vegetables makes for a well-rounded lunch option. You can use any combination of vegetables that you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. The soy sauce and garlic add a savory depth of flavor, while the light cooking method keeps it healthy. It’s a great way to enjoy a fulfilling and nutritious lunch without spending too much time in the kitchen.

To make this stir-fry, you will need 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (grilled and sliced), 1 cup of bell pepper, 1 cup of broccoli florets, 1 cup of snap peas, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 garlic clove.

Grill the chicken breast until fully cooked, then slice it into thin strips. In a large skillet, sauté the vegetables in a little olive oil and garlic until tender-crisp. Add the grilled chicken to the pan, then pour in the soy sauce and stir to combine. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld. Pack it in your lunchbox for a hearty, healthy meal!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Bowl

A sweet potato and black bean bowl is a filling, plant-based lunch option that’s both hearty and flavorful. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and black beans provides a great mix of fiber, protein, and vitamins. You can easily customize this bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa for added flavor. This meal is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for various dietary preferences. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for work or school.

You’ll need 1 medium sweet potato, cubed and roasted, 1 cup of black beans, cooked, and one-half an avocado, sliced. You can also add 1 tablespoon of olive oil for roasting, salt and pepper to taste, and any toppings you prefer, such as salsa or cilantro.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and roast the cubed sweet potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper for 25-30 minutes, or until tender. In a bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes and black beans. Top with avocado slices and any other toppings you prefer. Stir gently to combine and season with extra salt or pepper if needed. Pack it in your lunchbox for a nourishing, plant-based meal.

Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps

Egg salad lettuce wraps are a light, low-carb alternative to traditional sandwiches. The egg salad is creamy and satisfying, while the crisp lettuce provides a refreshing crunch. This meal is simple to prepare and easy to pack for work or school. You can customize the egg salad with your favorite mix-ins like mustard, pickles, or herbs for added flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying lunch without the heaviness of bread.

For these wraps, you will need 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of mustard, 2 large lettuce leaves for wrapping, and salt and pepper to taste.

In a bowl, combine the chopped hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined. Spoon the egg salad into the center of a lettuce leaf and wrap it tightly. Repeat with the second lettuce leaf, then pack it for a quick and healthy lunch. These wraps are perfect for a light and nutritious meal.

Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese salad skewers are a fun and easy way to enjoy the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. These bite-sized skewers are perfect for a quick lunch or snack, and they’re light yet satisfying. The combination of fresh ingredients makes them refreshing and delicious, while the balsamic glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish. You can pack these skewers in a lunchbox for a portable, no-fuss lunch. They’re a great option for a fresh, flavorful meal.

You will need 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls, one-fourth cup of fresh basil leaves, and 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze.

On small skewers, alternate threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Once all skewers are assembled, drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor. Pack them in your lunchbox for a refreshing, easy-to-eat meal. These skewers are light, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch!

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

This Mediterranean couscous salad is light, flavorful, and easy to make. With ingredients like cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, it offers a fresh taste that will brighten up your lunch. Couscous provides a light base that absorbs the flavors of the dressing, making every bite delicious. It’s a perfect choice for a refreshing lunch that still feels filling and balanced. This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep.

You will need 1 cup of couscous, one-half cup of cucumbers, diced, one-fourth cup of Kalamata olives, sliced, one-fourth cup of feta cheese, crumbled, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the couscous according to package instructions and allow it to cool. In a large bowl, combine the couscous with cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture, and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pack it in your lunchbox for a satisfying, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Veggie-Packed Rice Paper Rolls

Rice paper rolls are a fun and fresh way to enjoy a healthy lunch. These rolls are filled with colorful vegetables and herbs, making them a light yet filling option. You can dip them in a tasty peanut or soy-based sauce for extra flavor. These rolls are perfect for those who love to enjoy a fresh, crunchy meal while still getting plenty of nutrition. They’re simple to make and great for a grab-and-go lunch.

You will need 4 rice paper wrappers, 1 cup of shredded carrots, 1 cup of cucumber, julienned, one-half cup of bell pepper, sliced, 1 cup of fresh mint leaves, and 1 cup of cooked vermicelli noodles. For dipping sauce, use 2 tablespoons of peanut butter or soy sauce.

Soak the rice paper wrappers in warm water for about 10 seconds or until soft. Lay the wrapper flat and layer the shredded carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, and mint leaves in the center. Add the vermicelli noodles if desired. Roll the wrapper tightly around the filling and slice into halves. Serve with peanut butter or soy sauce for dipping.

Grilled Veggie and Hummus Wraps

Grilled veggie and hummus wraps are a great option for a flavorful and healthy lunch. The roasted vegetables add a smoky flavor, while the hummus provides creaminess. These wraps are easy to prepare and pack, making them a great choice for work or school. The added crunch from lettuce and cucumbers makes each bite satisfying. It’s a meal that’s both filling and nutrient-packed.

You will need 1 whole wheat wrap, 1 cup of grilled vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant), 2 tablespoons of hummus, one-half cup of lettuce, and one-fourth cup of cucumber slices.

Grill the vegetables until they are tender and slightly charred. Lay the wrap flat and spread the hummus evenly on the center. Layer the grilled vegetables, lettuce, and cucumber slices on top. Fold the sides of the wrap and roll it tightly. Slice in half and pack for an easy, nutritious lunch.

Roasted Veggie and Pesto Pasta Salad

This roasted veggie and pesto pasta salad is a great make-ahead lunch that’s packed with flavor. Roasted vegetables add a rich, caramelized flavor that complements the herby pesto sauce. The pasta provides a hearty base, making this meal both filling and nutritious. The best part is that you can make it in advance and enjoy it for a few days. It’s a perfect lunch for busy workdays or school lunches.

You will need 1 cup of cooked pasta, 1 cup of roasted vegetables (such as sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini), one-fourth cup of pesto, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and roast the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper for 25 minutes. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once the vegetables and pasta are done, combine them in a large bowl and add pesto. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning as needed. Pack it in your lunchbox for a delicious, filling lunch.

Spicy Tuna Salad Lettuce Cups

These spicy tuna salad lettuce cups are a simple yet flavorful lunch option that’s perfect for a low-carb meal. The spicy tuna pairs perfectly with the crisp lettuce, making each bite light and refreshing. It’s easy to make and can be packed in minutes. This meal is high in protein and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and energizing. It’s a great choice for those looking for a quick and nutritious lunch.

You will need 1 can of drained tuna, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of sriracha, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and 4 large lettuce leaves.

Mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice in a bowl. Lay the lettuce leaves flat and spoon the tuna mixture into each leaf. Wrap the lettuce around the tuna salad and serve. These spicy tuna cups are perfect for an easy and flavorful lunch. Pack them in your lunchbox for a protein-packed meal.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.