Finding the right lunch to take to work or on the go can be a challenge, especially when you’re looking for something that is both tasty and travel-friendly. A packed lunch should be convenient, easy to eat, and, of course, delicious. Whether you’re packing lunch for a busy workday or for a trip, these 17 delicious and packable lunch ideas are perfect for keeping you fueled and satisfied throughout the day. These recipes are not only easy to prepare in advance but also hold up well to being transported, making them ideal for work, travel, or school. From hearty salads to wraps and bowls, these lunches are guaranteed to make your day a little bit easier—and a lot more delicious.
1. Grilled Chicken and Hummus Wraps
Grilled chicken, hummus, and crunchy veggies like cucumbers and bell peppers are wrapped up in a whole-wheat tortilla for a healthy, satisfying lunch. These wraps are portable, packed with protein, and full of fresh flavors. You can even add a little feta cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Get the recipe: Grilled Chicken and Hummus Wraps
2. Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Veggies
This quinoa salad is light yet filling, with chickpeas providing a hearty source of protein. Toss it together with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, and dress with a lemony vinaigrette. It’s the perfect meal to prep on Sunday and have ready for the week ahead. Get the recipe: Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Veggies
3. Turkey, Cheese, and Avocado Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb option, these turkey, cheese, and avocado lettuce wraps are a great choice. Simply layer turkey slices, cheese, and creamy avocado in large lettuce leaves, and you’ve got yourself a portable lunch that’s full of healthy fats and protein. Add a slice of tomato or a few slices of cucumber for extra crunch. Get the recipe: Turkey, Cheese, and Avocado Lettuce Wraps
4. Mason Jar Salad
Mason jar salads are a fantastic way to prep a lunch that stays fresh and crisp. Layer your ingredients, starting with the dressing at the bottom, followed by hearty vegetables (like carrots and cucumbers), protein (such as grilled chicken or chickpeas), and greens at the top. When you’re ready to eat, just shake it up! Get the recipe: Mason Jar Salad
5. Tuna Salad with Crackers
Tuna salad made with Greek yogurt (instead of mayo) is a healthy and protein-packed option. Pair it with whole-grain crackers or fresh veggies for dipping. This classic lunch is simple, satisfying, and easy to pack for travel or work. Get the recipe: Tuna Salad with Crackers
6. Burrito Bowls
Burrito bowls are customizable and easy to pack. Combine cooked brown rice, black beans, grilled chicken, and your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese. Everything can be packed into a container and eaten straight from the bowl, making it the perfect on-the-go lunch.
Get the recipe: Burrito Bowls
7. Chicken Caesar Wraps
Turn your favorite salad into a wrap by combining grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and a light Caesar dressing. These wraps are easy to make, hold up well, and can be wrapped tightly to prevent any mess during transport. Get the recipe: Chicken Caesar Wraps
8. Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps
Egg salad is a classic lunch choice, but serving it in crisp lettuce leaves instead of bread makes it a light, low-carb option. Mix boiled eggs with avocado, Greek yogurt, mustard, and spices for a creamy, satisfying filling. Get the recipe: Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps
9. Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Pasta salad can be made ahead and packed for lunch easily. Roast your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, then toss with cooked pasta and a simple balsamic vinaigrette. Add some feta cheese or olives for extra flavor and texture. Get the recipe: Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
10. Couscous and Veggie Bowl
Couscous makes a great base for a healthy lunch bowl. Pair it with roasted veggies, hummus, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice. This Mediterranean-inspired bowl is filling, vibrant, and easy to pack for travel or work. Get the recipe: Couscous and Veggie Bowl
11. Rice Paper Rolls with Shrimp and Veggies
Fresh rice paper rolls are a fun, light lunch option that’s easy to pack. Fill rice papers with shrimp, shredded carrots, cucumber, lettuce, and herbs. Serve with a side of peanut or hoisin dipping sauce for a tasty, healthy meal that’s ready to go wherever you do. Get the recipe: Rice Paper Rolls with Shrimp and Veggies
12. Chicken, Apple, and Walnut Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines grilled chicken with crisp apple slices, crunchy walnuts, and mixed greens. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it’s a flavorful, satisfying lunch that’s perfect for a midday pick-me-up. Get the recipe: Chicken, Apple, and Walnut Salad
13. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos
Stuff whole-wheat tortillas with mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, and a little cheese for a filling and healthy burrito. Add some salsa and avocado for extra flavor. These can be made in advance, and they freeze well for an easy grab-and-go lunch. Get the recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos
14. Salmon Salad with Cucumber and Avocado
A simple salmon salad can be made by mixing canned or grilled salmon with fresh cucumber, avocado, and greens. Toss in a lemon vinaigrette for a light yet filling lunch. This combination of healthy fats and protein will keep you full and satisfied. Get the recipe: Salmon Salad with Cucumber and Avocado
15. Caprese Salad with Chicken
A classic Caprese salad is made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Add grilled chicken for protein and turn this salad into a more substantial lunch that’s fresh, satisfying, and easy to pack. Get the recipe: Caprese Salad with Chicken
16. Vegetable Frittata
Frittatas are a great way to use up leftover vegetables and create a protein-packed, portable lunch. Bake your favorite veggies into eggs, then slice and pack individual servings for an easy meal on the go. You can add cheese or herbs to make it more flavorful. Get the recipe: Vegetable Frittata
17. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a great meal prep option for lunch. You can stuff them with a mixture of quinoa, ground turkey, black beans, and cheese. Bake them ahead of time, and they’re ready to grab and go when you need them. Get the recipe: Stuffed Bell Peppers
These 17 delicious, packable lunch ideas are perfect for anyone looking to eat well while staying on the go. Whether you prefer wraps, salads, bowls, or something entirely different, these meals are designed to be easy to prepare and convenient to take with you. They’re not only healthy but also flavorful and satisfying, ensuring that you’ll enjoy your lunch no matter where you are. Prepare ahead, pack them up, and enjoy a stress-free, nourishing lunch while you focus on your busy day.
