• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
always use butter
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Air Fryer Resources
    • Subscribe!
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipe Roundups

    23 Easy Meal Prep Lunches to Keep You Energized All Week

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on June 4, 2025, updated June 3, 2025 - Leave a Comment

    Meal prepping can be a game changer for busy weeks, helping you stay energized and focused. With 23 easy lunch ideas, you can prepare nutritious meals in advance that are both satisfying and simple to make. These recipes will keep you fueled throughout the day without the stress of last-minute cooking.

    California Roll Bowl

    A serving of California roll bowl.
    Photo Credit: Living Chirpy.

    A California Roll Bowl combines fresh avocado, crunchy cucumbers, and imitation crab into one tasty dish. It's a simple meal that brings together great flavors and textures. The addition of zesty sriracha sauce adds a nice kick to it. This bowl is perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week. It's a quick and satisfying option that keeps you feeling energized.

    Save This Recipe Form

    Want to save this recipe?

    Enter your email below & we'll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get more great recipes from us each week!

    Get the recipe

    Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    Chickpea salad sandwich.
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This sandwich is perfect for meal prep and makes lunchtime easy. It's flavorful and simple to prepare, helping you stay energized all week long. With just a few ingredients, you can whip it up quickly. This is a great choice for busy days when you need something satisfying. Enjoying a homemade sandwich can really brighten your lunch routine.

    Get the recipe

    Freezer Burritos with Beans, Rice, and Cheese

    Freezer Burritos with Beans, Rice, and Cheese
    Photo Credit: Bowl of Delicious.

    This is a great opportunity to prepare a batch of freezer burritos filled with beans, rice, and cheese. Simply heat them up in the microwave for a quick and satisfying lunch. They are budget-friendly, simple to put together, and really delicious. You can easily make them vegan or customize them by adding extras like shredded chicken. These burritos are perfect for meal prep and will keep you fueled throughout the week.

    Get the recipe

    Chickpea Mason Jar Salad

    Mason jar salads.
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    A salad in a jar is a convenient option for lunch that you can easily take with you. It’s a great way to keep your energy up during the week. Packed with fresh ingredients, this salad is both healthy and satisfying. You can prepare it ahead of time, making your busy days a little easier. Enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal without any fuss.

    Get the recipe

    Mediterranean Orzo Salad

    Mediterranean Orzo Salad.
    Photo Credit: The Short Order Cook.

    This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is fresh, tasty, and simple to prepare. Packed with healthy vegetables and dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s a great choice for any meal. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this salad, which is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s vegan and vegetarian friendly, but you can also add feta and salami if you want something more filling. This salad is an excellent option for meal prep, picnics, and potlucks.

    Get the Recipe

    Brie Grilled Cheese with Turkey

    Brie Grilled Cheese with Turkey
    Photo credit: Midwest Foodie

    Turkey Brie Grilled Cheese is a great option for lunch. It combines turkey, fresh greens, and creamy Brie cheese, all brought together with a touch of mustard. This sandwich is satisfying and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays. Enjoy it as a quick meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. It's a delicious way to keep your lunch interesting.

    Get the recipe

    Halloumi Salad

    A serving of grilled halloumi cheese salad.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Halloumi salad is a fantastic choice for lunch prep, packed with fresh greens, chickpeas, tomatoes, and olives, all topped with a creamy balsamic dressing. It’s simple to put together and offers a satisfying meal that you can enjoy all week long. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful option for any lunch. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up something delicious without much effort. This salad is perfect for keeping you energized and satisfied during busy days.

    Get the recipe

    Curried Cauliflower Chickpea Wraps

    Cauliflower chickpea wraps.
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Curried Cauliflower Chickpea Wraps are a simple and flavorful option for meal prep. Packed with Indian spices, these wraps are perfect for adding some variety to your lunches. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer, making them convenient for busy days. Enjoy them fresh or heat them up for a quick meal. This is a great way to keep your lunches interesting and satisfying throughout the week.

    Get the recipe

    Roasted Vegetable Salad

    Roasted Vegetable Salad
    Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

    Roasted vegetable salad adds a nice twist to your lunch routine. It's packed with flavor and has a tangy dressing that complements the veggies perfectly. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it versatile for any meal. This salad is great on its own or paired with your favorite protein. It's a simple way to keep your lunches interesting and satisfying.

    Get the recipe

    Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Bowls

    Cauliflower hummus bowl.
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This vegan bowl is loaded with protein from hummus, roasted cauliflower, and crunchy pumpkin seeds. It's a great option for picnics, gatherings, or meal prepping to stay energized throughout the week. The combination of flavors and textures makes it satisfying and enjoyable. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it convenient for busy days. Enjoy this nutritious bowl as a filling lunch that keeps you going.

    Get the recipe.

    Cashew Caprese

    Caprese salad with cashews.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This caprese salad gets a tasty twist with added spinach and cashews, giving it a nice crunch and extra nutrients. The vinaigrette adds a burst of flavor that really brings everything together. It's a filling option that works well for lunch prep, helping you stay energized all week long. This salad is easy to make and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. Perfect for those busy days when you need something quick and healthy.

    Get the recipe

    Smoked Salmon Nicoise Salad

    Smoked Salmon Nicoise Salad.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons.

    The Smoked Salmon Nicoise Salad is colorful and full of flavor, making it a great choice for a light meal. This salad is perfect for lunch or when you want to serve something impressive without too much effort. With its mix of fresh ingredients, it’s both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger spread. This dish is sure to brighten up your day.

    Get the recipe

    Halloumi Wraps

    A halloumi wrap.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    These wraps are a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. They combine halloumi cheese, pesto, and crunchy walnuts for a delicious and different taste. Perfect for lunch, they are easy to prepare and pack. Enjoy them at home or take them on the go. These wraps are sure to keep you satisfied throughout the day.

    Get the recipe

    Cold Soba Noodle Salad

    Cold soba noodle salad.
    Photo credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    Cold noodle salad is a simple and refreshing option for lunch. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite protein or enjoyed as is for a light meal. This dish is perfect for those busy days when you want something quick and satisfying. It’s a great way to keep your lunches interesting throughout the week. Enjoy this salad as a delicious and convenient choice for your midday break.

    Get the recipe

    Vegan Poké Bowls

    A vegan poké bowl.
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Vegan Poke Bowls are a great option for lunch, giving a healthy twist to the traditional Hawaiian dish. They are packed with tofu, kale, and a tasty vegan dressing, making them both nutritious and satisfying. Preparing these bowls is easy, and they can be made ahead of time for the week. This meal is perfect for anyone looking to eat well without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy these bowls as a filling and delicious meal that keeps you energized.

    Get the recipe

    Quinoa Bowls

    Quinoa Breakfast Bowls
    Photo credit: Seasonal Cravings.

    A Quinoa Bowl with egg, tomatoes, and avocado is a fantastic option for any meal of the day. Packed with protein, it will keep you feeling full and satisfied. This dish is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare. It's perfect for busy days when you need something quick and healthy. Enjoy this bowl as a hearty breakfast, a filling lunch, or a light brunch.

    Get the recipe

    Greek Yogurt Egg Salad

    Greek yogurt egg salad.
    Photo credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    Egg salad is a great addition to your sandwiches for lunch. It's easy to make and offers a healthy option to keep your meals balanced during the week. Packed with protein, it helps keep you satisfied and energized. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it convenient for busy days. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.

    Get the recipe

    Burger Bowls

    A veggie burger bowl.
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Lunch can be fun again with this burger bowl packed with fresh vegetables. It's a healthy option that will fill you up and keep you going throughout the day. You can use veggie burgers or stick with your favorite meat if you prefer. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious lunch that you can look forward to all week.

    Get the recipe

    Burrito Bowls

    Burrito bowl.
    Image credit: Katie Trant.

    Vegetarian Burrito Bowls are filled with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and fresh vegetables. This dish is perfect for meal prep, offering a healthy and satisfying option for lunch. It's plant-based and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets. These bowls are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Enjoy a nutritious meal that keeps you energized and ready to tackle your day.

    Get the recipe

    Healthy Chicken Salad

    Chicken salad in a sandwich.
    Photo credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    This creamy salad is a fantastic addition to your sandwiches and will brighten up your lunch. It's a tasty choice that will keep you feeling full and happy all week long. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, it pairs well with various ingredients. Preparing it ahead of time makes lunchtime a breeze. Enjoy this salad as a reliable go-to for your meal prep.

    Get the recipe

    Taco Pasta Salad

    Taco Pasta Salad.
    Photo Credit: The Cookin' Chicks.

    This taco pasta salad is a fun twist on your favorite tacos. It combines all the classic taco flavors into a hearty pasta dish that's perfect for lunch. This meal is great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. Whether you're serving it at a gathering or just need a quick dinner, it’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Sweet Potato & Feta Cheese Salad

    A plate of sweet potato salad.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This salad is perfect for lunch, bringing together a mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy tastes. The zesty Lemon Tahini Dressing adds a nice kick, making it enjoyable whether you eat it by itself or alongside something else. It's a filling choice that can keep you energized throughout the day. Easy to prepare, this salad fits well into a busy week. Enjoy it as a refreshing meal that doesn't require much effort.

    Get the recipe

    Ceasar Salad

    kale cesar salad.
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This vegetarian take on a classic dish will add some color to your lunch. It's a solid choice to keep you energized all week long. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it on busy days. This dish is sure to keep your lunches interesting and satisfying.

    Get the recipe

    More Recipe Roundups

    • Chicken thigh tray bake.
      22 Dump-And-Go Recipes That Will Make You Love Cooking Again
    • Tikka masala.
      22 Delicious Crockpot Chicken Meals You Can Just Set and Forget
    • 19 Family Friendly Slow Cooker Meals That Are Perfect for Meal Prep
    • Orzo pesto salad.
      22 Quick Summer Salads That Are Bursting with Flavor

    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Sliced air fryer roast beef.
      Air Fryer Roast Beef
    • top down view of a tortellini casserole
      Cheesy Tortellini Casserole with Spinach
    • Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake [Dump and bake!]
    • sliced rib eye steak topped with salt
      How to Cook a Rib Eye Steak Without a Cast Iron Skillet (3 Methods)

    Popular Articles

    • Pepperoni pasta salad.
      19 Family Friendly Pasta Recipes We’re Making All Summer Long
    • Chicken cacciatore.
      20 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes for Stress-Free Cooking
    • Corn chowder.
      25 Slow Cooker Dinners You’ll Be Making All Summer Long
    • Ham and potato casserole.
      25 Layer and Bake Casseroles We’re Making All Summer Long

    We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

    All affiliate links are always marked with "*" or "affiliate".

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    A collage of sites where always use butter content has been featured.

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Disclaimer
    • Disclosures
    • Editorial Policy
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up!

    Contact

    • Contact
    • info@alwaysusebutter.com
    • Pink Giraffe Ventures AB, Runstens Byväg 51, 147 91 Grödinge, Sweden
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    Copyright © 2018-2025 Pink Giraffe Ventures AB