10 Delicious Brown Bag Lunch Ideas for 2 Weeks

Brown bag lunches are a great way to mix up your workweek meals while saving money and time. Over the next two weeks, we'll share some easy and tasty packable lunch ideas that won't break the bank. From wraps to salads, these meals will keep you fueled without the fuss. Let’s get started and make lunchtime something to look forward to!

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish. With its mix of chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, it delivers a tasty punch in every bite. It's also simple to prepare, making it a perfect option for your brown bag lunches.

The combination of flavors is delightful, with the creaminess of chickpeas balancing the crunch of cucumbers and the sweetness of tomatoes. You can whip this up in no time, and it stays delicious even after a couple of days, making it great for meal prep!

Chicken Caesar Wrap

The Chicken Caesar Wrap is a delightful and easy-to-make lunch option that packs a punch of flavor. With tender grilled chicken, crisp lettuce, and a creamy Caesar dressing, each bite is a delicious mix of textures and tastes. It's fresh, satisfying, and perfect for those busy days when you need a quick meal that doesn't skimp on quality.

This wrap is not only simple to prepare, but it's also a great way to use up leftover chicken. Just roll everything up in a tortilla, and you’re ready to enjoy a tasty and nutritious lunch. Plus, it’s easily customizable—add your favorite veggies or swap in a different protein for a new twist!

Ingredients

• 2 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or croutons for added crunch

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the sliced chicken with Caesar dressing until well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the Wrap: Lay the tortillas flat and distribute the chopped lettuce evenly on each. Top with the chicken mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Add any optional toppings if desired.
3. Wrap It Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll tightly from the bottom to the top to secure the filling.
4. Slice and Serve: Cut the wraps in half and enjoy immediately, or pack them for lunch!

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Pasta salad with Italian dressing is a delightful blend of flavors that's perfect for a quick lunch. It's light yet filling, making it a great option for your brown bag meals. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and zesty dressing provides a refreshing taste that will have your taste buds dancing.

This recipe is super simple to prepare, and it comes together in just a few steps. You can even make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile choice for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/4 cup Italian dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, red onion, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Add Dressing: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop. Enjoy!

Caprese Sandwich with Pesto

The Caprese Sandwich with Pesto is a delightful mix of fresh flavors that will brighten up your lunch. It's simple to make, combining juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all brought together with a zesty pesto spread. This sandwich is a perfect balance of taste and freshness, making it a great choice for a quick meal that feels a bit gourmet.

Not only does it taste amazing, but it's also a breeze to prepare. Ideal for brown bag lunches, this sandwich holds up well and can be enjoyed at room temperature, making it a convenient option for busy days. Let's get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 slices of your favorite bread (ciabatta works well)
• 1 medium tomato, sliced
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Lightly toast the slices of bread if desired for extra crunch.
2. Spread the Pesto: On one slice of bread, spread a generous layer of pesto sauce.
3. Add the Cheese: Layer the mozzarella slices evenly over the pesto.
4. Add the Tomato: Place the fresh tomato slices on top of the mozzarella, seasoning with a little salt and pepper.
5. Finish with Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Top and Serve: Place the second slice of bread on top. Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy your fresh Caprese creation!

Hummus and Veggie Platter

This hummus and veggie platter is a colorful and tasty option for a quick lunch. It combines crunchy vegetables with creamy hummus, making it a healthy choice that’s easy to prepare. The fresh veggies add a satisfying crunch, while the hummus offers a rich, nutty flavor that complements them perfectly.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it’s also versatile. You can mix and match your favorite vegetables, making it suitable for any palate. Whether you’re at home or packing for work, this platter is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal that keeps you energized.

Ingredients

• 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 carrots, cut into sticks
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 stalk celery, cut into sticks
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut all the vegetables into sticks or slices. Arrange them on a large platter.
2. Serve the Hummus: Place a generous bowl of hummus in the center of the platter.
3. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh herbs around the platter for a pop of color.
4. Enjoy: Grab your favorite veggie stick, dip it in the hummus, and enjoy a refreshing snack or lunch!

Turkey and Avocado Wrap

This Turkey and Avocado Wrap is a tasty and nutritious choice for your brown bag lunch. With layers of turkey, creamy avocado, and fresh veggies wrapped in a soft tortilla, it’s not only delicious but also super easy to make!

The combination of flavors creates a satisfying and refreshing meal that will keep you energized throughout the day. Perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy option, this wrap is a winner for lunches or even an on-the-go snack!

Ingredients

• 1 large tortilla
• 4 slices of turkey breast
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach or lettuce
• 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: your favorite dressing or hummus

Instructions

1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread a thin layer of hummus or dressing on the tortilla if desired.
3. Layer the turkey, avocado, spinach, cucumbers, and shredded carrots evenly on top.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Starting from one end, carefully roll the tortilla tightly to enclose the filling.
6. Slice the wrap in half diagonally and enjoy, or pack it in your lunch container for later!

Fruit and Yogurt Parfait

If you're looking for a quick and tasty lunch option, a fruit and yogurt parfait is a delightful choice. It combines creamy yogurt, fresh fruits, and crunchy granola for a perfect blend of textures and flavors. This treat is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great pick-me-up for those busy days ahead.

The best part? Putting together a parfait is super simple and can be customized with your favorite fruits and yogurt types. Layering these ingredients in a jar makes it not only easy to transport but also visually appealing!

Ingredients

• 2 cups yogurt (plain or flavored)
• 1 cup granola
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 banana, sliced
• Honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
• Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Start with a clean jar and add a layer of yogurt at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of granola on top of the yogurt.
3. Layer a mix of your favorite berries and banana slices over the granola.
4. Repeat the layers until the jar is full, finishing with a layer of yogurt and fruit on top.
5. If desired, drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top and garnish with mint leaves.
6. Seal the jar and enjoy it right away or refrigerate for later!

Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl

This Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the earthy richness of black beans, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying lunch.

It's simple to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it great for meal prep. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, too, like fresh tomatoes or cilantro, for an extra pop of freshness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
2. Remove from heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, cilantro, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Serve warm or let it cool down before packing it into your lunch container. Enjoy your nutritious meal!

Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable Fried Rice is a delightful and easy dish that brings together the comforting flavors of rice and fresh veggies. It's a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand. The result is a satisfying meal that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing.

This dish is perfect for brown bag lunches, as it holds up well and is just as delicious cold as it is warm. With its savory notes and colorful ingredients, it's sure to brighten your midday meal. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it an excellent choice for busy days!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, peas, and carrots)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
4. If using, push the vegetables to one side and scramble the egg in the skillet until fully cooked.
5. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through.
6. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped green onions before serving.

Savory Spinach and Feta Quiche

This Savory Spinach and Feta Quiche is a delightful blend of flavors that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your lunchbox. Creamy feta cheese pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy days.

Whether you're enjoying it warm or cold, this quiche is versatile enough to be a standout in any brown bag lunch. It’s easy to slice and pack, ensuring you have a tasty meal ready whenever hunger strikes!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until soft. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until combined.
4. Add the sautéed spinach and onion mixture to the egg mixture, then stir in the crumbled feta. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and spread it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or pack slices for a delicious brown bag lunch!