As summer approaches, the mercury rises, making it a perfect time to swap scorching hot meals for refreshing cold lunch ideas that’ll save you from hours of kitchen time. These easy-to-prepare options are not only ideal for meal prep but also ensure fewer days spent cooking and more time enjoying your free time.
Imagine having the freedom to take a cold lunch to work, skipping the microwave queue and devouring dinner at your leisure. The key lies in investing in high-quality meal prep containers and an ice pack, allowing you to enjoy your meals without sacrificing precious moments.
Vietnamese Spring Rolls
Transform the essence of Vietnamese cuisine by combining fresh vegetables, vermicelli noodles, and succulent shrimp within delicate rice paper wraps. The result is a mouthwatering spring roll experience that’s best enjoyed with a creamy peanut dipping sauce. For the perfect crunch in every bite, choose julienne-cut carrots, cucumber, and lettuce as your go-to veggies. Add any herbs you have on hand to elevate the flavor profile further. The harmony of textures and tastes will leave you craving more! To craft the dipping sauce, blend peanut butter with soy sauce for a rich and savory foundation. A touch of sugar helps balance out the saltiness of the soy, while a dash of chili oil can be added to give it an extra kick of heat. This delectable combination will have you coming back for more!
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Weekends are the perfect time to whip up a batch of this scrumptious chicken salad, which can be enjoyed in a variety of ways throughout the week. Consider using it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or even served atop a bed of crisp greens.
To take your chicken salad game to the next level, craft a rich and tangy dressing by combining mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Then, add in chunks of juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and thinly sliced red onion for added texture and flavor. Finally, toss in some dried cranberries and toasted walnuts to introduce sweet and nutty notes.
Looking for more inspiration for kid-friendly lunches? Click the link to discover a treasure trove of ideas.
Bacon Steak Wraps with Blue Cheese Dressing
The showstopper of these delectable wraps is undoubtedly the chuck steak, paired magnificently with crispy bacon, pungent blue cheese crumbles, and peppery fresh arugula. This harmonious union creates an unparalleled lunch wrap experience.
Elevate your steak by seasoning it with a trifecta of chili powder, salt, and pepper, further enhanced by the earthy undertones of oregano. The addition of fried onions and bell peppers injects a boost of nutritious goodness, making this a well-rounded meal.
The grand finale is achieved by drizzling a rich and creamy dressing over the entire ensemble. To craft this luxurious condiment, combine the velvety smoothness of sour cream with the tanginess of mayo, the piquancy of blue cheese, the subtle brightness of lemon juice, and the freshness of parsley. The result is nothing short of scrumptious!
Cold Sesame Noodles with Tahini
What’s truly remarkable about these sesame noodles is that they actually improve with time – they’re even more delicious the day after making them. This recipe has become a staple lunch for work, and it’s easy to see why: the combination of crunchy veggies and chewy brown rice noodles is nothing short of perfect. For the best results, be sure to include a variety of colorful vegetables in your mix, such as purple cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas. The real magic happens when you create a flavorsome nutty sauce to coat everything. To do this, simply combine tahini, tamari, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a balanced blend of spicy and sweet flavors. And just as the heat is about to overwhelm, the subtle sweetness of maple syrup kicks in, bringing everything together seamlessly.
Salmon Salad with Avocado
Salmon and dill take center stage in this vibrant salad, where the freshness of lemon meets the flaky texture of baked salmon. Its versatility is matched only by its adaptability – enjoy it on a bed of greens, between crispy crackers, or wrapped in crunchy lettuce leaves.
A satisfying crunch comes from celery and green onion, while avocado contributes a luxurious creaminess. A medley of flavors unfolds with the addition of lemon juice, zest, fresh dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. To tie everything together, stir in creamy Greek yogurt for a harmonious balance.
Salmon Asparagus Pasta Salad
Salmon and asparagus is a match made in heaven when paired with pasta, hard-boiled eggs, and a rich, creamy dressing that’s perfect for spring or summer. The addition of green onion slices adds a satisfying crunch to the dish. To create this mouthwatering meal, combine plain yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to form the base of your dressing, then enhance it with the bright flavors of dill, lemon juice, and zest, which will leave you feeling refreshed and herby.
Chicken Berry and Brown Rice Bowls
Savoring the harmony of flavors and textures, this meal brings together juicy shredded chicken, plump berries, and nutty brown rice in perfect balance. The crowning glory is a sweet poppy seed dressing that elevates the dish to new heights, making it a nutritious delight.The combination of shredded chicken, crisp green salad, and succulent blackberries and strawberries is a match made in heaven. Add some satisfying crunch from sliced sweet onion and toasted sunflower seeds, and you’ll be hooked.Meanwhile, the creamy dressing is a masterclass in flavors, blending Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, dry mustard, onion powder, and poppy seeds for a rich and tangy taste experience. A touch of honey adds natural sweetness that beautifully complements the berries.With this recipe, you can cook up a big batch of shredded chicken and explore even more delicious uses for it, including these other scrumptious recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Herbed Egg Avocado Salad
The secret to this egg salad’s exceptional taste lies in its generous use of fresh herbs. By incorporating a variety of fresh flavors, the dish is elevated from ordinary to extraordinary. Meanwhile, avocado takes center stage as it replaces traditional mayonnaise, lending not only creaminess but also a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
The combination of crunchy celery and silky boiled eggs creates a delightful textural contrast, while dill and parsley bring a bright, herbaceous note. To balance out the richness, a squeeze of lemon juice adds a touch of brightness, while Dijon mustard provides a subtle yet tantalizing kick.
Panzanella Salad with Grilled Chicken
This salad boasts a trifecta of flavors: crispy grilled bread, tender chicken, and sweet bell peppers. The freshness of various vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing bring it all together. When preparing your chicken, don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme for added depth. Before grilling the crusty bread, sprinkle on some salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance its flavor as well. A mix of ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and pungent green onions provide a satisfying texture contrast in the salad. Fresh parsley or basil leaves add a burst of freshness. To tie everything together, create a zesty vinaigrette by combining balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Cold Lunch Ideas for Kids
Perfect for busy parents, these kid-friendly lunch ideas can be whipped up quickly and easily, making them ideal for both packed lunches and impromptu meals on-the-go.
Homemade Lunchables
Incorporating creativity into your child’s lunches doesn’t have to mean sacrificing nutrition. Homemade Lunchables offer a healthy alternative to their store-bought counterparts. For instance, Nacho Lunchables can be elevated by combining crunchy chips with nacho sauce and mild salsa. The addition of baby carrots for dipping adds a delightful textural element. To round out the meal, consider including your child’s favorite fruit, a mini candy bar, and a fruit juice box. This thoughtful combination ensures that they’re fueled and satisfied throughout the day.
Pin Wheel Sandwiches
Making pinwheel sandwiches for your child’s packed lunch is a breeze! These versatile creations can be customized to suit their taste buds. Simply start by mixing garlic powder and chopped green onion into the cream cheese for an added depth of flavor. Then, layer this mixture onto a soft tortilla with your child’s favorite ingredients. Some ideal combinations include deli turkey or ham, melted Swiss cheese, and crisp lettuce.
Cucumber Sushi
Transforming a classic into a kid-friendly treat, this creative twist on traditional sushi is a game-changer! Ditch the seaweed and rice and instead use hollowed-out cucumber slices as the base. The possibilities are endless when it comes to filling these cucumbers with an assortment of tasty ingredients like cheese, deli meat, and thinly sliced carrots.
Rotisserie Chicken Salad
When it comes to repurposing leftover rotisserie meat, a chicken salad is an excellent choice. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. To create this tasty treat, combine chunks of juicy chicken with finely chopped yellow onion, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. The addition of fresh dill adds a delightful herby flavor that complements the other ingredients nicely. This delicious salad is not only perfect for wrapping or sandwiching in kids’ lunches but also makes a great snack or light meal. If you’re looking for more creative ways to use chicken, be sure to check out these other tasty wrap recipes.
Hummus Sandwich
Combine the freshness of wholegrain bread with the creaminess of hummus, layered between vibrant vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and spinach. For added zest, incorporate flavors such as lemon or garlic into your hummus. This adaptable lunch option allows you to mix and match veggies and flavors to suit your child’s unique tastes and preferences, making mealtime a delightful experience.
Chilled Veggie Pizza Using Crescent Rolls
Take pizza to the next level by using crescent roll dough in a chilled twist that makes for a fantastic appetizer. But what really elevates this dish is the creamy ‘sauce’ made with a harmonious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo. Add some depth with aromatics like dill, parsley, garlic, and onion powder to create a flavor profile that’s both rich and refreshing.
The real showstopper here, though, is the vibrant medley of colorful veggies that not only tantalize the eyes but also provide a nutritious punch. Broccoli, purple and green cauliflower, tomatoes, and green onions are all excellent choices. And to tie everything together, sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top for a burst of orange color that adds visual appeal.
Yogurt and Herb Summer Sandwich
Transform the flavors of summer into a delectable sandwich by combining creamy yogurt with an assortment of vibrant vegetables. For a smooth spread, finely chop your veggies of choice – tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions are ideal choices. To add a burst of freshness, incorporate herbs like cilantro, mint, basil, or mixed greens. Layer your creation by alternating the yogurt mixture with butter, crisp salad leaves, and a fruity chutney for a delightful sensory experience.
Turkey Roll-Ups
These vibrant turkey roll-ups are a delightful treat that can be whipped up with just a few ingredients. The use of spinach tortillas adds a pop of color to the dish. To assemble, simply spread some creamy avocado dip on each tortilla, followed by layers of Swiss cheese, sliced deli turkey, fresh spinach leaves, and crispy crumbled bacon. Once assembled, slice the roll-ups into manageable pieces before serving and enjoy! The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Cream Cheese Cucumber Sandwiches
To craft these effortless sandwiches, you’ll need just three unassuming ingredients. The star of the show is undoubtedly the refreshing crunch of cucumber, which provides a delightful contrast to creamier elements. The key to achieving a harmonious balance lies in combining softened cream cheese with fragrant fresh dill and chives, allowing their herby notes to shine through. Spread this mixture onto soft white bread, then top it with an even layer of butter and thinly sliced cucumber, allowing the textures and flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
A game-changing twist on the classic Caesar salad, this soft tortilla is filled with the bold flavors of its traditional counterpart. To take it to the next level, craft a rich and tangy dressing by combining minced garlic, lemon juice, parmesan, salt, and pepper into a creamy base. Elevate the flavor further by incorporating Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste, allowing each component to meld together in harmony. Then, assemble the wrap by layering crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes with tender chicken and salty bacon. The addition of grated parmesan adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness, while chopped croutons provide a satisfying crunch. For more mouth-watering tortilla wrap recipes perfect for lunch, check out these other delicious options.
Vegetarian Cold Lunch Ideas
A collection of scrumptious, plant-based cold lunch ideas await you, bursting with flavor and nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Red Kidney Bean Burger Bowls
Indulge in the wholesome goodness of kidney bean burgers, a protein-packed delight that’s sure to satisfy. Ditch the traditional bun and instead serve them with an array of fresh veggies and creamy avocado – a match made in heaven! To take it up a notch, add a pinch of garlic, cumin, and chili powder for a subtle kick, while bell pepper and scallions provide an extra layer of flavor. But that’s not all – sweet tomatoes, carrots, onions, and beets can also be added to create a vibrant medley of colors and tastes. And don’t forget to include some peppery arugula, crunchy green peas, and spicy radishes for added depth. This vegetarian lunch idea is a game-changer, perfect for packing in your bag or serving at home – it’s a flavorful and nutritious treat that’s sure to please!
Smashed Chickpea and Avocado Sandwich
The flavors in this delectable sandwich are expertly balanced, with the subtle cumin taste from the avocado and chickpeas serving as a perfect complement to the crunchy cucumber’s contrasting texture. Meanwhile, the combination of cumin, garlic, and chili powder infuses the dish with a spicy kick that’s sure to tantalize the palate.
To make the sandwich spreadable and easy to handle, be sure to add olive oil and lemon juice to your avocado and chickpeas mixture before assembling it between two slices of wholesome whole-grain bread. And don’t forget to top it off with a medley of fresh microgreens and other desired toppings.
Chickpea Salad with Cucumbers and Tomatoes
With its harmonious blend of textures and flavors, this healthy salad is a treat for the senses. Chickpeas add a satisfying crunch, while a medley of fresh vegetables – including cucumber, tomatoes, and sweet red onion – provide a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of elegance. Meanwhile, a zesty dressing made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, and garlic brings everything together, the juices from the veggies mingling with the flavors to create a truly irresistible taste experience.
Sweet Potato Couscous Salad
The essence of fall is captured in this hearty salad, where roasted sweet potatoes and toasted pumpkin seeds meld together in perfect harmony. A sprinkle of paprika on the sweet potato before cooking adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. To create a satisfying base, combine cooked couscous and sweet potato with peppery arugula and creamy mozzarella cheese. For a tangy and savory dressing, blend olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and parsley, then sweeten it naturally with honey.
Sweet and Salty Rainbow Orzo Salad
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this pasta salad, where contrasting tastes harmonize in perfect balance. The sweetness of golden raisins mingles with the savory essence of olives, carrots, and red onions, creating a delightful symphony on the palate. Meanwhile, cooking peas in butter and sugar unlocks their natural sweetness, an effect that can be replicated using honey or maple syrup for added depth. As the foundation of this dish, Orzo’s unique shape provides the ideal vessel for embracing the bold, herby notes of Greek dressing, crafted from a medley of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Oregano, thyme, and rosemary further enhance the experience, weaving together a tapestry of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Veggie Hummus Wrap
Indulge in the nutritional powerhouse that is this hummus wrap! The creamy union of avocado and crunchy veggies makes for a satisfying bite. When it comes to hummus, roasted garlic is an excellent choice, perfectly complemented by the subtle zing of dill and the warmth of ground black pepper. To add texture, crunchy elements like cucumber, red bell pepper, alfalfa, and shredded carrot are essential, while tender spinach provides a delightful contrast in texture.
Tofu Salad Sandwich
Give a traditional egg salad sandwich a twist by using a unique ingredient to make your tofu taste like eggs. The key is in the base of the ‘eggy’ filling, which is created by mixing together mayo, Dijon mustard, relish, lemon juice, and turmeric. But here’s the secret: Kala namak is the game-changer that makes this dish truly special. Simply combine crumbled tofu with green onion, celery, and a dash of Kala namak to create a filling that’s remarkably similar to its egg-based counterpart. And when you assemble your sandwich, don’t forget to add some crunch from radishes and freshness from crisp lettuce – and feel free to load up on the tofu as much as you like!
Avocado Quinoa Power Salad
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this delectable power salad, crafted from a medley of fresh ingredients and wholesome grains. The crowning glory is a basil dressing that bursts forth with the essence of sunshine.
Assemble your masterpiece by combining peppery arugula, refreshing chilled quinoa, juicy orange slices, and creamy avocado, all perfectly balanced to delight your palate. Add a satisfying crunch courtesy of raw walnuts for an added layer of texture.
To bring it all together, blend the essence of summer with fresh basil, zesty lemon juice, tangy apple cider vinegar, and rich olive oil. A pinch of garlic and a sprinkle of dried onion add depth and complexity to this heavenly dressing.
Buffalo Tofu Wrap with Easy Vegan Ranch
The showstoppers of this wrap are the crispy buffalo tofu strips and creamy avocado. A tangy homemade vegan ranch dressing expertly ties everything together. To achieve that perfect crunch, coat pressed tofu in non-dairy milk and cornstarch before air-frying it to a golden crisp perfection.To add some satisfying texture, fill your wrap with crunchy romaine lettuce and shredded carrots, then sprinkle in some shredded cheddar for an extra burst of flavor. Meanwhile, create your own ranch dressing by blending almond yogurt with lemon juice, white vinegar, fresh dill, parsley, garlic, and onion powders, allowing each ingredient to harmoniously combine into a rich and creamy sauce.
Sesame Soba Noodle Salad
A vibrant and flavorful cold noodle salad awaits! The harmonious blend of colors in the bowl is a feast for the eyes, with sweet and savory notes that tantalize the taste buds. The star ingredients – red bell pepper and cabbage, carrots, and edamame – bring a delightful medley of textures to the table, beautifully complemented by the tender soba noodles.The showstopper, however, is the dressing. A masterful combination of sesame oil, hoisin, soy sauce, and rice wine vinegar creates a sweet and tangy harmony that elevates the entire dish. A pinch of fresh garlic and ginger adds an extra layer of depth and warmth, while the finishing touch – a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving – adds a satisfying crunch to the experience.
Gluten Free Cold Lunch Ideas
Embracing a gluten-free lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety in your daily meals, particularly at lunchtime. Here’s a collection of creative and satisfying options to ensure you never have to settle for a bland meal.
Low Carb Mexican Meal Prep Bowls with Cauliflower Rice
In these vibrant Mexican meal bowls, a flavorful centerpiece takes center stage: spicy cauliflower rice. This nutritious grain substitute is elevated by the company of tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado slices, and peppery greens. A medley of chopped tomatoes and green bell peppers serves as the foundation for this aromatic mixture, to which dried onion, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, and chili flakes bring a depth of flavor.
Blueberry Basil Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
The combination of succulent blueberries, crunchy almonds, and crisp lettuce cups provides a delightful harmony of textures. The freshness of Greek yogurt and sweet basil adds a cooling touch, reminiscent of a warm summer’s day. In contrast, the savory flavor of chicken, celery, and onions is elevated by being mixed with other tasty ingredients and served on fresh lettuce leaves, ready to be enjoyed immediately.
Salsa Shredded Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
Creating this salsa-shredded chicken meal prep is remarkably straightforward. By serving it alongside nutrient-rich cauliflower rice, you’re amplifying the dish’s overall health benefits. Feel free to customize the spice level by incorporating your go-to salsa. To prepare the chicken, cook it in a flavorful broth and salsa sauce, then add a pinch of paprika and chili powder for an extra depth of flavor. Once cooked through, shred the chicken and allow it to mingle with the savory sauce. Meanwhile, roast vibrant bell peppers with olive oil and a light sprinkle of salt, as these colorful additions will complement your meal prep nicely when paired with the chicken and cauliflower rice.
Paleo Tahini Chicken Salad
This chicken salad breaks away from traditional mayo-based recipes by incorporating tahini instead, resulting in an egg-free alternative that also boasts a rich nutty flavour. The addition of carrots, celery, and onion provides a satisfying crunch, while plump raisins infuse the dish with a touch of sweetness.
Mediterranean Salad Bowls
Indulge in the authentic flavors of Greece with these mouthwatering salad bowls that will elevate your lunch game! The combination of textures and tastes is simply irresistible. The star of the show is tender Greek chicken marinated in a zesty yogurt-based sauce, which pairs perfectly with crisp romaine lettuce, refreshing cucumber slices, and juicy tomatoes. Add some crunch with chopped feta cheese and briny kalamata olives on top. For a dressing that’s both tangy and sweet, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. To give it an extra boost of herby goodness, add a sprinkle of fresh basil, parsley, oregano, and garlic powder.
Asian Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is a masterclass in balance, with a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, tangy, and umami flavors that will leave you craving more. The vibrant medley of vegetables – think red cabbage, snow peas, carrots, broccoli, and red bell pepper – provides a stunning visual appeal, while the mandarin slices add bursts of natural sweetness.To bring it all together, create your dressing using a trifecta of coconut aminos, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Then, amplify the flavor with minced garlic, ginger, and chili paste, which will add depth and complexity to each bite.
Tuna Potato Salad
To craft this delectable tuna potato salad, you’ll need just a handful of uncomplicated ingredients. Start by combining tender potatoes with canned tuna – opt for the oil-packed variety to inject a deeper flavor and creamier texture into your dish. The sweetness of red onions will also pair nicely with the savory flavors at play. For an effortless dressing, simply blend together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Finally, add some chopped parsley to give your salad a bright, herbaceous note that will elevate the entire composition.
Chilled Cucumber Soup
Indulge in a revitalizing summer treat by crafting a refreshing English cucumber soup, elevated by the creamy richness of coconut milk and the subtle nuances of fresh herbs. The harmonious union of flavors is further accentuated by the addition of lemon juice and zest, while the freshness of parsley and dill adds a delightful herby note. To elevate the dish to new heights, season with salt and cracked black pepper before serving. Garnish with cherry tomatoes, dill, and lemon zest for a visually stunning presentation. For more cooling soup recipes, explore our collection of refreshing options perfect for hot summer days.
Whole30 Egg Salad
A delightful and effortless egg salad recipe brings together the creaminess of mayonnaise, the smokiness of crispy bacon, and the richness of hard-boiled eggs. When served in crunchy lettuce leaves, it makes for a satisfying light lunch option. To elevate the dish further, add a tangy touch with sweet onion, a depth of flavor from Dijon mustard, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of green onions. Finally, finish the salad with a pinch of sea salt and some freshly ground black pepper to bring out the best in each ingredient.
Curry Chicken Salad
Transforming leftovers into a mouthwatering chicken salad is an art form. By combining crunchy celery, smooth mayonnaise, and tender shredded meat, you’ll create a harmonious balance of textures. The sweetness and crunch from red onion add depth to the dish, while curry powder takes center stage with its bold flavor. However, it’s not alone in its flavorful journey – lemon juice brings tanginess, honey provides natural sweetness, and Dijon mustard adds a spicy kick that complements both the lemon and honey perfectly. With all the prep work done, simply mix everything together in a bowl until it’s well combined, and you’ll have a salad that’s as effortless to make as it is delicious to eat.
