Nikole Stewart
We all want something nutritious and delicious for lunch that will give us enough energy to power through the day. But sometimes that doesn’t mean we want another sandwich. For fast lunch ideas that don’t include mashing meat, cheese, and veggies between two buns, keep reading to learn about our favorite options. From salads to noodles, we have the perfect fast lunch ideas.
6. Mediterranean Bean Salad
Beans are not only packed with protein, but they’re also full of fiber, which helps you stay full and satisfied for longer. That, paired with feta cheese for a tangy, creamy bite, cucumbers, onion, and tomatoes for a nice crunch, common Mediterranean seasonings, and a vinaigrette, makes for a delicious and fast lunch. Plus, if you’re not a fan of salads because they get soggy from the dressing, this is a great alternative that stays crisp and fresh longer.
5. Salmon Grain Bowl
Fish is always a great protein source because it’s full of omega-3, which is perfect for reducing inflammation and supporting cognitive function. Pair that with quinoa, veggies, and a delicious dressing, and you have one of the best fast lunch ideas. You can also make various versions, like this delicious Green Goddess option that includes the iconic dressing over avocado, cabbage, and spinach.
4. Grilled Skirt Steak Salad
Steak isn’t just reserved for dinner. One of the best fast lunch ideas is this delicious and hearty grilled skirt steak salad. The smoky, savory flavor of the steak paired with corn, red onion, romaine lettuce, and either feta or blue cheese is the perfect way to energize yourself during the afternoon. You can dress a blue cheese dressing or a basic vinaigrette.
3. Chinese Cold Sesame Noodles
Not interested in salads or bowls? Then have some noodles for lunch. These cold noodles are perfect if you hate reheating something, and offer the perfect balance of nutty, tangy, and savory. For this dish, you just need to cook your noodles and then combine it with your sauce. Your sauce is made with garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame seeds, and chili flakes. Add that in your bowl along with vegetables like carrots, peppers, and onions.
2. Antipasto Pasta Salad
Antipasto is easy to put together, lasts throughout the week in the fridge so you can easily meal-prep, and is hearty and flavorful. All you need is cooked pasta along with cut-up meat and cheese with olives, onions, tomatoes, mozzarella, peppers, and whatever else you might like. Toss in Italian dressing and package up for lunch.
1. Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl
Forget tuna salad, make a spicy tuna bowl instead. There are so many ways to make it, for instance, like a sushi bowl or a basic tuna salad bowl, but a favorite style is like a poke bowl. For this, make sure you have high-quality, sushi-grade tuna, cube it up, and marinade it in soy sauce, sesame chili oil, ginger, and green onions. From there, just assemble in a dish, with rice at the bottom, topped with the marinated tuna, topped with onions, sesame seeds, cucumbers, avocado, and spicy mayo.