20 Flavorful Delicious Lunch Recipes for Busy Weekdays
As the workweek begins, many of us find ourselves scrambling to come up with quick and satisfying lunch ideas that can fuel our bodies and minds. With busy schedules and multiple responsibilities, it can be overwhelming to decide what to make or where to start. Fear not! We’ve got you covered with this collection of 20 delectable lunch recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic comfort foods to international flavors and global cuisine, these recipes cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and indulgent or light and refreshing, we’ve got a recipe that’s perfect for your busy weekday lunch routine.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Grilled Chicken
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of grilled chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and melted parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in heavy cream over medium heat until lightly browned.
4. Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with basil.
5. Combine cooked pasta and grilled chicken in the skillet. Toss to coat with creamy sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
Elevate your salad game with this bold and spicy dish that combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the crunch of noodles and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted peanuts, red bell pepper, carrots, and cucumber.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, and sriracha (if using).
4. Pour the peanut sauce mixture over the noodle salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with the comforting warmth of quinoa, the creamy richness of chickpeas, and the bright zing of Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled feta cheese, chopped olives, or diced bell peppers for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, garlic, parsley, and mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with crumbled feta cheese, chopped olives, or diced bell peppers if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking quinoa), plus prep time
Enjoy your Mediterranean Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl!
Loaded Sweet Potato with Black Beans and Avocado
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful loaded sweet potato, bursting with the creaminess of avocado and the richness of black beans. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or shredded cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add black beans and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, slice them open and top each half with black beans, mashed avocado, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or shredded cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon with Rice
Sweet and spicy fusion, this honey sriracha glazed salmon is a flavorful twist on traditional baked salmon. Paired with fluffy rice, it’s a quick and easy dinner option that will satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the sheet.
4. Brush the honey-sriracha glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Sprinkle garlic powder over the glaze.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with cooked rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocados with Balsamic Drizzle
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing and flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad. Creamy avocado halves are filled with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil, then drizzled with rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Divide the tomato-cheese mixture evenly among the avocado halves.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
6. Just before serving, drizzle each avocado half with balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation only)
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Sesame Seeds
This classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and nutty sesame seeds. With just a few ingredients and simple cooking steps, you can have this flavorful dish on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips according to package instructions or grill to desired doneness.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Add cooked beef, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with this creamy, savory recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms and spinach with the comfort of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and spinach; cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
5. Place a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle with cheese; add the mushroom-spinach mixture on half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Couscous
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs. Serve with a side of fluffy couscous for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 wooden skewers
– Couscous for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve with couscous and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Fried Rice
This mouthwatering dish combines sweet and savory flavors with the perfect balance of textures. Juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and fluffy rice come together in a delightful Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the mixture evenly onto the chicken breasts.
3. Cook the chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add pineapple, cooked rice, and cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring even distribution.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Vegetable and Hummus Wrap
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with roasted vegetables and creamy hummus, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/2 cup mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and red onion)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Spread the hummus evenly on the tortilla.
5. Top with the roasted vegetables and chickpeas.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
Savor the flavors of Italy with this rich and creamy tomato soup, elevated by crispy grilled cheese croutons.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat), buttered
– Shredded mozzarella cheese for croutons
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add diced tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Butter bread slices on both sides. Place under broiler until golden brown and crispy (2-3 minutes per side).
6. Top each crouton with shredded mozzarella cheese; return to broiler until melted.
7. Serve soup hot, garnished with grilled cheese croutons.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Get ready to savor the sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ pulled pork, served on soft sliders with a refreshing side of coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1/4 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
– Pickle slices and chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
3. Place pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot and add BBQ sauce. Cover with lid.
4. Braise for 6-8 hours or until pork is tender and easily shreds with two forks.
5. Split hamburger buns and toast lightly.
6. Assemble sliders by placing shredded pork on each bun, topping with cheese, coleslaw, pickle slices, and cilantro.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (braising time), plus assembly time.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with Cranberries
This refreshing salad combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the sweetness of cranberries and the savory flavor of chicken, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. With its light and airy texture, this salad is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken breast to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped cranberries.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the mixed greens on a serving plate or individual plates.
6. Spoon the chicken salad mixture over the greens.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cranberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
This spicy pasta dish combines the flavors of cajun sausage, heavy cream, and penne pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal. With minimal prep work and only one pot to clean, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cajun sausage, sliced
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the pasta, chicken broth, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Zucchini and Feta Fritters with Tzatziki
These crispy fritters are a delicious twist on traditional Greek cuisine, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the lightly beaten egg and mix until just combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each fritter.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with Tzatziki sauce (recipe below).
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Korean Beef Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this iconic dish, featuring tender beef and a spicy gochujang sauce. Bibimbap, which translates to “mixed rice,” is a staple in Korean cuisine, and our version adds an extra layer of depth with the savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Assorted vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Marinate beef in a mixture of gochujang paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or pan-fry the beef until cooked through.
3. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
4. Arrange vegetables on top of the rice.
5. Slice the grilled beef into thin strips and place on top of the vegetables.
6. Drizzle with gochujang sauce (mix equal parts gochujang paste and soy sauce) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto
A creamy and flavorful risotto dish packed with succulent shrimp, tender asparagus, and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, heat chicken broth and white wine (if using) to a simmer.
4. In a large skillet, sauté asparagus in olive oil over medium-high heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add Arborio rice to the skillet with asparagus and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Gradually add warmed chicken broth mixture to the rice, stirring constantly.
7. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until risotto is creamy. Stir in cooked shrimp and butter-garlic sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Turkey Panini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful panini, featuring tender turkey, creamy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. This easy-to-make sandwich is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 2 oz. sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one slice of bread with pesto sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with sliced turkey breast, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
5. Place the second slice of bread on top to complete the panini.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese (if using) is melted.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of lentils and chickpeas with the aromatic spices of Morocco, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get inspired by these 20 flavorful lunch recipes, perfect for busy weekdays! From creamy pasta dishes to international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad, or Mediterranean Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl. Or, indulge in sweet potato bowls, salmon with honey glaze, or caprese-stuffed avocados. Other highlights include cheesy quesadillas, shrimp skewers, and more! Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for quick and easy meal ideas, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
