25+ Quick and Delicious Basic Lunch Recipes to Try Busy Days

Lunchtime can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially when you’re looking for quick, easy, and delicious meals to fuel your day.

Whether you’re working from home, packing for a busy day, or simply trying to avoid the same old routine, having a collection of basic lunch recipes on hand is a game-changer.

These recipes are not only simple to prepare but also full of flavor and nutrition, helping you stay energized without spending hours in the kitchen.

From fresh salads to satisfying wraps, and hearty bowls, the following 25+ basic lunch recipes are perfect for any occasion.

Say goodbye to monotonous meals and welcome an array of easy, mouth-watering options into your lunch routine!

25+ Quick and Delicious Basic Lunch Recipes to Try Busy Days

Having a variety of easy-to-make, basic lunch recipes can be the key to enjoying your midday meal without feeling overwhelmed.

These 25+ recipes provide an assortment of flavors and ingredients to help you customize your lunch experience based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you’re craving something fresh, light, or filling, there’s something in this list for everyone.

Keep this guide handy, and let these recipes inspire your next lunch adventure.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a satisfying, healthy meal that won’t break the bank or your schedule.

Classic Chicken Caesar Wrap

A delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-make wrap perfect for a quick lunch. This Classic Chicken Caesar Wrap combines juicy chicken breast, crisp romaine lettuce, and a creamy Caesar dressing all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Ideal for those busy days, this wrap is both nutritious and packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 large tortilla wrap
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
• 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
• ¼ cup Caesar dressing
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Warm the tortilla in a pan for a few seconds to make it more pliable.
2. In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well-coated.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the chicken mixture in the center of the tortilla and fold in the sides before rolling it up tightly.
5. Slice the wrap in half and serve with extra dressing or fresh veggies on the side.

This Classic Chicken Caesar Wrap is a perfect combination of creamy, savory, and crunchy, offering a well-rounded lunch that you’ll look forward to. It’s easy to customize, too, by adding ingredients like tomatoes or avocado for extra nutrition and flavor.

Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowl

This colorful Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowl is loaded with wholesome ingredients that fuel your body and taste great. A balance of protein-packed quinoa, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing makes this bowl a healthy and filling lunch option. Plus, you can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for busy days.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp hummus
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, add the cooked quinoa as the base.
2. Arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and shredded carrots on top of the quinoa.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese over the vegetables.
4. In a small bowl, mix olive oil and lemon juice to create a light dressing, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the bowl, then add a dollop of hummus in the center.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a make-ahead lunch option.

This Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowl offers a refreshing and vibrant lunch that’s full of nutrients. It’s versatile enough for any season and can be easily adapted by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. The variety of textures and flavors keeps every bite interesting and satisfying.

Avocado Egg Salad Sandwich

A modern twist on a classic lunch, the Avocado Egg Salad Sandwich replaces traditional mayo with creamy avocado, creating a healthier, delicious sandwich that’s quick to prepare. This meal combines protein-rich eggs with the healthy fats of avocado, offering a nutrient-packed sandwich perfect for a midday energy boost.

Ingredients:

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• ½ ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 slices of whole-grain bread
• 1 handful of spinach or arugula leaves

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
2. Add the chopped hard-boiled eggs and Greek yogurt to the mashed avocado. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the avocado egg salad onto one slice of bread.
5. Top with spinach or arugula leaves, then place the second slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
6. Cut the sandwich in half and serve.

This Avocado Egg Salad Sandwich is a creamy and delicious take on a traditional favorite. The avocado adds a silky texture and rich flavor, complementing the eggs perfectly while keeping the sandwich light and nutritious. It’s an ideal option for anyone looking for a satisfying, wholesome lunch that’s both simple and satisfying.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

A fresh and vibrant lunch option, this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is packed with flavor and loaded with fiber, protein, and nutrients. The mix of crunchy veggies, hearty chickpeas, and tangy dressing creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick, wholesome lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, and serve.

This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is light yet filling, offering a great balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep. The salad’s tangy dressing and fresh ingredients make every bite refreshing, leaving you satisfied without feeling weighed down.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pita

For a quick and delicious lunch, this Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pita is a perfect choice. The creamy feta and fresh spinach make a flavorful combination that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s easy to put together, making it a great option for a busy day when you want something warm and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 large pita bread, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the chopped spinach, feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and sun-dried tomatoes if using. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Carefully stuff each pita half with the spinach and feta mixture.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the pita halves for about 1-2 minutes on each side until slightly crispy and warmed through.
4. Serve warm with a side of fresh veggies or your favorite dipping sauce.

This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pita is a wonderful combination of creamy and savory flavors. The feta cheese adds richness, while the spinach provides essential nutrients, making it a balanced and delightful lunch. Its warm, toasted pita shell adds a satisfying crunch, perfect for a midday meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful.

Tuna Avocado Lettuce Wraps

These Tuna Avocado Lettuce Wraps are a refreshing, low-carb lunch that’s both light and satisfying. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the tuna, creating a nutritious, protein-packed filling that’s deliciously seasoned and wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 can tuna, drained
• ½ ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
• Romaine or butter lettuce leaves

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the tuna, mashed avocado, Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the tuna mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf and roll up.
4. Serve immediately, or keep chilled for later.

These Tuna Avocado Lettuce Wraps offer a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional sandwiches. The crisp lettuce wraps add texture and make this meal feel light and refreshing, while the avocado and tuna mixture provide a creamy, flavorful filling that’s packed with protein and healthy fats. Ideal for anyone looking for a fresh, low-carb lunch option.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito Bowl

A hearty, vibrant, and nutritious bowl, this Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito Bowl is full of flavor and easy to prepare. The roasted sweet potatoes, combined with protein-rich black beans, offer a satisfying meal that’s both filling and packed with vitamins and fiber. This bowl is perfect for a meat-free lunch or a healthy, balanced meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• ½ cup salsa (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potato with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread it evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy on the edges.
2. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the black beans and corn in a small pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until warmed through.
3. In a bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, and lime juice.
4. Top with chopped cilantro and a spoonful of salsa if desired.
5. Serve warm and enjoy.

This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito Bowl is packed with earthy, smoky, and tangy flavors, offering a satisfying meal without feeling heavy. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and black beans makes it rich in both protein and fiber, while the lime and cilantro add freshness. This bowl is customizable with your favorite toppings, like avocado, guacamole, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Turkey and Hummus Wrap

This Turkey and Hummus Wrap is a simple yet flavorful option for a quick lunch. The lean turkey provides a great source of protein, while the creamy hummus adds richness and moisture to the wrap. Paired with fresh veggies like spinach, cucumbers, and tomatoes, this wrap is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 large whole wheat tortilla
• 4 slices deli turkey breast
• 2 tbsp hummus (any flavor)
• ½ cup spinach leaves
• ¼ cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup tomato, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread hummus evenly across the center.
2. Layer the turkey slices on top of the hummus, followed by the spinach, cucumber, and tomato.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go to create a secure wrap.
5. Slice the wrap in half and serve immediately.

The Turkey and Hummus Wrap is an easy-to-make lunch that’s both light and satisfying. The combination of turkey, fresh veggies, and creamy hummus makes this wrap packed with flavor, protein, and healthy fats. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick, balanced meal that’s both filling and delicious.

Veggie and Pesto Zucchini Noodles

A refreshing and low-carb twist on pasta, this Veggie and Pesto Zucchini Noodles dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, veggie-packed meal. The zucchini noodles serve as a lighter base, while the pesto adds a burst of basil flavor, complemented by the roasted veggies. This dish is an easy-to-make, healthy lunch that’s both satisfying and nutrient-dense.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and bell peppers, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened.
2. In another pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender but still crisp.
3. Once the veggies are cooked, toss the zucchini noodles with the sautéed tomatoes and bell peppers. Add the pesto and mix until everything is well-coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.
5. Serve warm and enjoy.

This Veggie and Pesto Zucchini Noodles dish is a light yet flavorful lunch that’s perfect for anyone looking to cut back on carbs without sacrificing taste. The pesto brings a fresh, herbaceous kick to the dish, while the sautéed veggies add color and texture. It’s an ideal meal for those seeking a quick, nutritious, and satisfying lunch.

Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad

This Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad is a protein-packed, healthy, and filling lunch that’s perfect for any time of day. The grilled chicken provides lean protein, while the creamy avocado adds richness and healthy fats. Combined with fresh greens and a light dressing, this salad is both satisfying and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• 1 small cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill the chicken on medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add the sliced grilled chicken and avocado to the salad.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, and honey (if using). Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy.

This Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad is a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. The grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor, while the creamy avocado complements the freshness of the greens and veggies. With a light dressing, this salad makes for a filling yet refreshing lunch that can easily be customized with your favorite salad toppings.

Caprese Sandwich

A simple yet delicious sandwich, the Caprese Sandwich is made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This Italian-inspired sandwich is perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch. It’s light, flavorful, and can be prepared in just a few minutes, making it an ideal option for busy days.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices whole-grain or ciabatta bread
• 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or vinegar
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread slices lightly in a toaster or on a grill pan to give them some crispness.
2. Layer the fresh mozzarella slices on one piece of toasted bread, followed by the tomato slices and fresh basil leaves.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the second slice of toasted bread on top and press gently to combine.
5. Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.

This Caprese Sandwich is a vibrant and refreshing lunch that’s packed with the classic flavors of Italy. The creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil make for a delicious combination that’s both light and satisfying. A drizzle of balsamic glaze brings a tangy sweetness to the sandwich, elevating the flavors. Perfect for a quick meal with minimal effort.

Spicy Chickpea and Avocado Wrap

A flavorful and filling wrap, the Spicy Chickpea and Avocado Wrap combines seasoned chickpeas with creamy avocado, creating a satisfying lunch that’s full of bold flavors. The chickpeas provide protein and fiber, while the avocado adds richness and a smooth texture. This wrap is perfect for anyone craving a plant-based lunch that’s both spicy and nourishing.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 whole wheat tortilla wrap
• ½ cup lettuce or spinach leaves
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chickpeas and sauté for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to crisp up slightly.
2. Season the chickpeas with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat evenly.
3. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice until smooth.
4. Lay the tortilla flat and spread the mashed avocado evenly over it.
5. Add the seasoned chickpeas on top, followed by the lettuce or spinach.
6. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice it in half. Serve immediately.

This Spicy Chickpea and Avocado Wrap is a bold and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. The seasoned chickpeas bring a smoky, spicy kick, while the creamy avocado balances out the flavors. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this wrap is as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s a great plant-based lunch choice that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Grilled Veggie and Hummus Pita

A light, nutritious, and flavorful option, the Grilled Veggie and Hummus Pita is a great lunch choice that’s both satisfying and packed with fresh ingredients. The smoky grilled vegetables paired with creamy hummus make for a delicious combination that’s rich in flavor and nutrients, perfect for a quick and healthy midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole wheat pita bread
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp hummus
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat. Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
3. While the vegetables are grilling, warm the pita bread for about 1 minute in the grill or oven.
4. Once the vegetables are done, slice the pita in half and spread hummus generously inside each pocket.
5. Stuff the pita halves with the grilled vegetables and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

This Grilled Veggie and Hummus Pita is a healthy and satisfying meal, full of vibrant flavors and textures. The grilled vegetables add a smoky, charred element, while the hummus provides creaminess and richness. It’s an ideal lunch for those looking for a vegetarian option that’s both easy to make and packed with nutrients.

Shrimp and Mango Salad

A refreshing and tropical salad, this Shrimp and Mango Salad is light yet full of flavor. The sweetness of the mango complements the savory shrimp, while the tangy dressing adds a burst of freshness. This salad is perfect for a sunny day or whenever you’re craving a light, satisfying lunch that’s packed with protein and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Add the cooked shrimp and diced mango to the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lime wedges or cilantro, if desired.

This Shrimp and Mango Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, with a refreshing citrus dressing that ties it all together. The shrimp provides a protein boost, while the mango adds a tropical sweetness, making this salad an energizing, light lunch that’s easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick, refreshing meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.

Avocado, Tomato, and Chickpea Toast

This Avocado, Tomato, and Chickpea Toast is a hearty and satisfying lunch option that’s quick to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. The creamy avocado, paired with fresh tomatoes and crunchy chickpeas, creates a well-rounded dish that’s rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making it both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices whole grain or sourdough bread
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• ½ cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread slices in a toaster or on a grill pan until golden brown and crisp.
2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with a fork and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chickpeas for 3-5 minutes, until they are slightly crispy. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the mashed avocado generously onto each slice of toast.
5. Top with diced tomatoes and sautéed chickpeas.
6. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately.

This Avocado, Tomato, and Chickpea Toast is a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a light lunch. The avocado adds a creamy richness, while the chickpeas provide a crunchy, protein-packed element. The fresh tomatoes bring brightness and a burst of flavor, making this toast a well-balanced option that’s both delicious and easy to make.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!