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Sometimes it seems like there just aren’t enough hours in a day—and a healthy lunch is often the first thing sacrificed when you’re short on time. Instead of ordering takeout, try one of these recipes. These lunches take just a few minutes to make and will leave you completely satisfied. From classic sandwiches to quesadillas, here’s a list of lunch recipes you can put together from start to finish in five minutes flat.
Caprese Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese is a classic that we can always get behind, especially when it takes so little time and effort to make this treat. While a basic cheese on bread combo is great, throwing in some upgrades makes this lunch even better. Try this Italian inspired alternative—with mozzarella, sliced tomato, and basil—for an easier version of a panini.
Fresh Salsa
If you’re not a big lunch eater, this salsa recipe is something you should definitely try. Some people prefer grazing throughout the day rather than having designated meals. If you’re one of those people, this salsa is a great addition to your other trusty snacks. By blending together a few simple ingredients, you’ve got yourself a homemade dip in less than five minutes. Throw some cheese and sour cream on top for a midday nacho pick-me-up.
Spinach and Artichoke Quesadilla
If you want a restaurant quality lunch but only have a few minutes to spare, say yes to a quesadilla. Aside from the fact that these are so easy to make, you also have the option to switch up what you want to include based on what you’re craving that day. If you’re looking for a quick option that’s big on flavor, try this mozzarella, spinach, and artichoke hybrid. While it may not be the traditional route, it’ll leave you (and your tastebuds) very happy.
Chickpea Bowl
One of the best things about lunch is that it’s totally acceptable to turn anything into a complete meal by combining a few ingredients in a bowl. Mix together chickpeas and peas with olive oil and salt (plus any other spices you’re feeling), and add a dollop or two of Greek yogurt right on top of your pea mixture. Sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the bowl when you’re done, and your lunch is all set.
Rice Cakes
There are only so many sandwiches you can eat in a week without growing tired of bread. When you need a lighter option, opt for rice cakes. Spread avocado, hummus, greek yogurt, peanut butter, or just about anything else right onto these cakes, and you have a complete lunch in no time. Since your rice cake base is so simple, you can have all the fun you want when choosing which flavors to add. We guarantee your coworkers will be copying your creations.
Ramen and Veggies
If your college obsession with instant ramen packets lingers, you’ll love this lunch idea. While your noodles and spices are heating up, add fresh or frozen veggies right into the pot to make your lunch a well-balanced meal. Mushrooms, broccoli, and greens are all perfect ingredients to toss in at this point. Looking for more flavor? Add your favorite seasonings to bring a little heat to your ramen.
Adult PB&J
Take your childhood favorite, and give it a major flavor boost. By forgoing your standard jelly and using fresh fruit like pomegranate seeds, you can kick this sandwich up a notch. After you’ve added your peanut butter and fruit of choice, try toasting before you devour it.
Corn and Black Bean Lettuce Wraps
Much like the rice cakes, lettuce wraps give you the perfect blank slate to add any type of filling you want. A quick and easy way to put together a healthy and tasty lunch? Make yourself a mix consisting of corn, black beans, peppers, and spices. You can heat this mix up or keep it room temp if you prefer that. Once everything is combined, go ahead and add your filling into the lettuce cups. Add some fresh mango or avocado on top, and enjoy.
Fruit Filled Yogurt Bowl
One of the quickest ways to throw together a tasty lunch when you’re short on time is to create your own yogurt parfait. Making these at home is easy (and way more cost efficient) than going out and buying one..
Turkey and Jam Sandwich
Although sandwiches are an easy lunch option, it’s often hard to think of new ways to mix them up. Skip the standard deli cheese and mustard and try a few new flavor combos. By using a spreadable cheese and a sweet jam, your ordinary turkey sandwich becomes anything but boring.
Published on April 17, 2017