When it comes to work lunches, it seems the only thing people bring are salads — which, don't get me wrong, are great — but sometimes you want a little something more.
So we rounded up our 14 favorite make-ahead lunch recipes that are definitely not salads.
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1. Chickpea Shawarma Sandwiches
Pro tip: Pack the chickpea filling, sauce, and pitas separately to prevent them from getting soggy. Get the recipe.
2. Southwestern Cream Cheese Chicken Wraps
Feel free to use a store-bought rotisserie chicken to make these wraps a breeze to meal prep. Get the recipe.
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3. Onigirazu (Rice Sandwich)
These simple rice sandwiches call for fresh shiso leaves, but you can leave them out or use your favorite herb instead. Get the recipe.
4. Hoisin Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Hold off on assembling these wraps until you're just about to eat — otherwise the lettuce may get soggy before lunch comes around. Get the recipe.
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5. Chicken Burrito Bowl
This wholesome work lunch has everything you need in it: Veggies, protein, and some brown rice to keep you energized until work is over. Get the recipe.
6. Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This recipe uses a homemade lemon herb dressing, but feel free to use your favorite store-bought dressing to save yourself some time. Get the recipe.
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7. Italian Chicken Wrap
Chicken, roasted red peppers, spinach, and provolone cheese give these pinwheel sandwiches a ton of flavor without a ton of work. Get the recipe.
8. Cold Sesame Noodles With Crunchy Vegetables
Load these cold sesame noodles up with chicken or shrimp to make this lunch even heartier. Get the recipe.
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9. Veggie Nori Wraps
A simple dipping sauce made with tahini and miso takes these veggie-loaded nori wraps from good to great. Get the recipe.
10. One-Pan Italian Sausage and Veggies
Make a big batch of these veggies on Sunday, then eat them over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice all throughout the week. Get the recipe.
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11. Lemony Broccoli, Chickpea, and Avocado Pita Sandwiches
These pita sandwiches are spread with smashed avocado, but if you're worried about it turning brown you can easily substitute it for hummus. Get the recipe.
12. Vegetarian Greek Pitas
These pitas call for feta cheese, but you can leave it out if you're looking for a vegan option. Get the recipe.
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13. Muffuletta Sandwiches
This muffuletta uses a homemade giardiniera to give it a ton of flavor — which is not as hard to make as it sounds — but you can use your favorite store-bought variety instead (which is found in the pickle section of most grocery stores). Get the recipe.
14. Pesto Quinoa With White Beans
This hearty quinoa salad is tossed in a homemade pesto made with fresh arugula to give it a pop of peppery flavor. Get the recipe.
Looking for more lunch inspiration? Check out these posts:
• 27 Clever Tips For Anyone Who Packs Their Own Lunch
• 19 Packable Lunches With Five Ingredients Or Fewer
• 27 Ways To Make Your Sad Desk Lunch Happier
