This blog post covers adult lunchables – healthy, packable lunchboxes that keep you energized throughout the day. 

It’s time to move beyond those basic lunch ideas and explore the world of adult lunchables! 

Although many people don’t consider lunch breaks at work important, they do boost energy and thinking capacity. 

In fact, studies have shown that 73% of folks believe that lunch breaks boost their productivity, while 82% agree that regular breaks are key to staying on top of their game. 

So I decided to make your lunchtime something you can genuinely look forward to by sharing some delicious adult lunchables you can try!

25 Adult Lunchables Ideas

I have organized my ideas for adult lunchables into different fun sections. 

You will find tasty options for vegans, chicken entrees, beef fans, seafood lovers, sweet treats and even all-in-one combos.

All these recipe ideas are quick and simple, and for some, you can easily whip up the meal prep at the end of the week.

Vegan

1. Chickpea Salad Bento Box

This chickpea salad is healthy, vegetarian, and the easiest to make, requiring no cooking time. 

Just chop all the veggies, mix them with boiled chickpeas and season them with pepper and salt. 

Perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch that you can take anywhere!

• Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Vegan mayonnaise, Grapes, Carrots, Whole Wheat Flatbreads, Onion, Seasonings
• Additional Benefits: Vegan, High Fiber, Heart-healthy, Paleo-suitable
• Prep Time: 25 minutes

2. Sweet Potato with Black Beans and Salsa 

Sweet potato salsa salad isn’t your average recipe; it’s a complete lunch inspired by Mexican-stuffed sweet potatoes.  

This recipe combines it with black beans, creating a more flavorful dish you can enjoy easily at work!

• Main Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, Black beans, Veggies, Avocado, Coconut yogurt, Olive oil. 
• Additional Benefits: Gluten-free, Vegan, High Fiber, Paleo-suitable
• Prep Time: 55 minutes

3. Cold Soba Noodle Salad

If you prefer cold lunches, cold soba noodles may be a good option. 

This recipe is inspired by Japanese cuisine. 

It consists of buckwheat noodles tossed with crunchy veggies and garnished with umami peanut sauce. 

Best of all, each ingredient is plant-based while still guaranteeing to satsify your lunch cravings. 

• Main Ingredients: Soba noodles, Veggies, Peanut butter, Garlic, Ginger, Sugar
• Additional Benefits: Vegan, High Fiber, Paleo-suitable
• Prep Time: 20 minutes 

4. Caprese Easy Lunchbox Idea 

Now, time for an Italian-inspired recommendation: the classic Caprese salad!

This refreshing dish is made with slices of fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, all drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. 

For a delightful twist, the recipe adds slices of avocado, strawberries, and kiwi to complement the flavors beautifully. 

• Main Ingredients: Tomatoes, Fresh Mozzarella, Balsamic Glaze 
• Additional Benefits: Vegan, Rich in Vitamin C, Paleo-suitable 
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

5. Teriyaki Tofu 

This lunchbox is an East-Asian cuisine bringing vibrant flavors and healthy vibes to your meal.

As it is entirely vegan, featuring Tofu and broccoli, you can expect it to be exceptionally nutritious, healthy, and rich in protein. 

This recipe features steamed brown rice, adding the carbs you need to keep you moving throughout the day.

• Main Ingredients: Steamed Brown Rice, Tofu, Soy sauce, Vinegar, Broccoli, Sesame oil
• Additional Benefits: Vegan, Diabetic-friendly, Paleo-suitable
• Prep Time: 45 minutes

Chicken 

6. Chicken Wrap and Snack Box

We all have had chicken wraps. 

But this sepcial recipe is for a mixed lunchbox, including wraps filled with spinach, bell pepper, and chicken slices. 

Pair these high protein wraps with a side of vibrant fruit and veggie slices, and you’ve got a perfectly balanced meal featuring protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

• Main Ingredients: Chicken, Spinach, Whole Wheat Tortilla, Bell Peppers. 
• Additional Benefits: High protein, High Fiber, Healthy Immunity
• Prep Time: 10 minutes. 

7. Grilled Chicken Lunchbox

Grilled chicken is one of the easiest meal prep options, making it perfect for adult lunchables!

The pairing possibilities with grilled chicken are endless.

You can enjoy it with whole-wheat flatbreads, fresh vegetables, or even simple boiled brown rice for a satisfying meal on a busy workday.

• Main Ingredients: Chicken, Lemon, Mustard, Salt, Garlic Powder, Parsley, Olive oil
• Additional Benefits: Gluten-free, High protein, Healthy fats
• Prep Time: 20 minutes

8. Chicken Pepperoni Whole Wheat Pasta 

This recipe is for all pasta lovers and an easy way to satisfy your pizza cravings. 

The main twist? It’s made with whole wheat pasta instead of a crust.

And this is served cold, so you don’t have to worry about microwaving it. 

Just enjoy it during your lunch break. 

• Main Ingredients: Whole Wheat Pasta, Spinach, Pepperoni, Chicken, Mozzarella, Mustard powder, Lemon Dressing 
• Additional Benefits: Nut-Free, Soy-Free, Healthy Aging, Healthy Immunity
• Prep Time: 20 minutes

9. Chicken Pesto and Zucchini Noodles 

If you are doing the keto diet and still craving pasta, these zucchini noodles are the perfect choice. 

High in protein and low in carbs, they deliver all the flavor you miss, plus a dash of Parmesan for that delicious kick.

You can find the recipe here. 

• Main Ingredients: 
• Additional Benefits: Low-Carb, Keto, High-Protein, Egg-Free, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 40 minutes

10. Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice

Having butter chicken as adult lunchables is a fantastic idea!

Pairing it with cauliflower rice makes it keto-friendly, too.

With the recipe I shared, you can prep your meals for up to four servings. 

So why not give it a try?

• Main Ingredients: Ground chicken, Cheese, Garlic, Italian seasoning
• Additional Benefits: Keto, Low-Carb, High-Protein. 
• Prep Time: 25 minutes

11. Cheesy Chicken and Cauliflower Rice

This is another healthy keto, high-protein, low-carb recipe that is the perfect blend of flavors and textures!

Tender diced chicken combines with cauliflower rice and a generous melty cheese, creating a creamy, savory delight. 

• Main Ingredients: Broccoli, Chicken, Cauliflower, Cheese, Olive oil, Salt, Pepper
• Additional Benefits: Healthy fats, High Fiber
• Prep Time: 40 minutes

Beef 

12. Seasame Beef Bento 

Just picture tender strips of beef marinated in a rich sesame sauce and stir-fried to perfection for that mouthwatering flavor you crave. 

That’s a sesame beef, a perfect healthy meal prep for adult lunchables.  

Pack it with simple boiled brown rice and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!

• Main Ingredients: Beef steak, Soy sauce, Green onions, Brown Rice, Sesame seeds 
• Additional Benefits: High Protein, 
• Prep Time: 15 minutes

13. Grilled Beef Steak and Veggie Kebabs

Beefsteak kebabs are a fun and creative way to enjoy both vegetables and meat.  

The recipe is a breeze. 

Simply marinate the beef overnight to infuse it with delicious flavors. 

In the morning, thread the marinated beef onto skewers with colorful veggies, and grill them to perfection.

• Main Ingredients: Beef Steak, Soy sauce, Black pepper, Zucchini, Olive Oil, Red onion, Spices
• Additional Benefits: High-Protein, Low-Carb, Diabetes-Friendly, Nut-Free, Dairy-Free
• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes 

14. Ground Beef Lunchbox Tacos 

This ground beef recipe is perfect if you don’t enjoy meat in chunks! 

It’s simple and packed with flavor. 

Just cook the ground beef over a low flame, making it tender and juicy.

Pack it into your morning lunchbox with crunchy whole wheat tortilla chips and fresh veggies for a satisfying lunch. 

• Main Ingredients: Ground beef, Olive oil, Onion, Lettuce, Cheese, Spices, Tortilla chips, Avocado
• Additional Benefits: Nut-Free, Dairy-Free, Healthy Aging, Low-Sodium, Soy-Free
• Prep Time: 25 minutes

15. Mini Beef Sliders 

This is the most fun and unique adult lunchable idea you will encounter!

You can meal-prep the patties earlier, cook them when needed, and quickly assemble your lunchable some crunchy veggies, and your favorite dipping sauces. 

• Main Ingredients: Beef Mince, Red and Green pepper, Garlic, Grated carrots, Parsley, Soy Sauce, Buns
• Additional Benefits: High protein
• Prep Time: 15 minutes

Turkey

16. Turkey Avocado Lettuce Wrap 

Another wrap recipe is here, but with turkey as a meat option. 

These wraps are super healthy too, as the recipe uses lettuce as a wrap covering. 

Plus, you can customize them with your favorite sauces or spices!

• Main Ingredients: Lettuce, Tomatoes, Turkey, Avocado, Cheese, Mustard, Pickles
• Additional Benefits: Low-Carb, Gluten-free, Soy-free
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

17. Turkey Pinwheel Lunch 

Turkey pinwheel is another great adult lunchable to try if you like protein. 

You can easily make them at home and store them for a whole week. 

While this recipe has few ingredients, it is so versatile that you can mix and match according to your taste. 

• Main Ingredients: Low-carb Tortilla, Cheese, Light mayo, Turkey slices, Spinach, Condiments
• Additional Benefits: Low Carb, Soy-free, Sesame-Free, Diabetes-Friendly
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

Seafood

18. Grilled Tuna Sandwich 

Sandwiches are always a top choice for an easy, healthy lunch, and this quick grilled tuna recipe is no exception!

Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious and satisfying.

• Main Ingredients: Canned Tuna, Mayonnaise, Cucumber, Whole Wheat Slices. 
• Additional Benefits: Diabetes-Friendly, Nut-Free, Soy-Free
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

19. Cheese Board Lunch Box 

Another unique addition to your adult lunchable lineup: a Cheese Board Lunchbox! 

Instead of presenting it on a traditional board, all the delicious ingredients are packed neatly into a lunchbox for easy snacking.

• Main Ingredients: Salami slices, Pickles, Grapes, Apples, Cherries, Almonds, Bell Peppers, Whole Wheat Flatbreads
• Additional Benefits: 
• Prep Time: 5 minutes

20. Avocado Shrimp Keto Lunchbox

This lunchbox idea is a magical combo of flavors of olives, avocados, and shrimp in a healthy way. 

The best part is that you don’t need to put too much effort into it. 

Just mash the avocados and cook the shrimp ahead of time, and you’re all set!

• Main Ingredients: Pre-cooked shrimp, Avocado, Olives, Cheese cubes. 
• Additional Benefits: Keto, Gluten-free, Soy-free, Healthy Protein
• Prep Time: 10 minutes 

A bit of Everything 

21. Copycat Starbucks Protein Bistro Box 

The Starbucks Protein Bistro Box is a convenient and nutritious meal option that combines a variety of delicious components. 

And you can easily recreate the Starbucks Bistro recipe. 

• Main Ingredients: Eggs, Grapes, Apples, Cheese, Peanut Butter, Multi-grain flatbread, 
• Additional Benefits: Paleo, Healthy Immunity, Soy-free
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

22. The Leftover Lunchbox

The easiest approach to lunch is to keep things simple: pack your leftover dinners!

This means you can pack leftover dinners for lunch or cook an extra serving and save it. 

A quick, easy, and healthy option, and you no longer have to worry about your lunches! 

You can get more ideas here. 

• Main Ingredients: Anything from your last dinner. 
• Prep Time: 10 Minutes

23. Boiled Egg Snack Packs

The ultimate breakfast can double as a delicious lunch

Yes, we’re talking about eggs! 

This versatile ingredient can be transformed into a satisfying lunchbox meal that’s both tasty and nutritious.

• Main Ingredients: Eggs, Pita slices, Cucumber, Bell pepper, Olives, Whole Wheat/ Multigrain Flatbreads/Tortillas
• Additional Benefits: Diabetic friendly, Soy-free, Healthy Immunity
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

Sweet 

24. Peanut Butter and Banana Roll-Ups 

Not everyone wants savory for lunch, and that’s where these Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups come to the rescue! 

Simply spread some peanut butter on a whole-wheat tortilla, place banana slices on top, and roll it up. 

For some color and taste, you can add other fruits like strawberries and even toss in some pretzels for a delightful crunch.

• Main Ingredients: Whole wheat tortilla, Peanut butter, Banana,
• Additional Benefits: High fiber, Soy-free, Healthy Immunity 
• Prep Time: 15 minutes 

25. Chocolate Protein Pancakes 

Pancakes as adult lunchables instead of a healthy breakfast? Now that’s a killer idea, especially when made with protein powder! 

This recipe yields eight small pancakes you can easily add to your lunchbox.

Just like any good meal, pair them with some seasonal fruits, and you have a feast.

• Main Ingredients: Chocolate protein powder, Rolled Oats, Almond milk, low-fat Greek yogurt, Cocoa powder,
• Additional Benefits: Vegetarian, Gluten-free
• Prep Time: 15 minutes

That’s All for Easy Adult Lunchables Ideas!

I made sure that your lunch at work didn’t stay boring with all the adult lunchables I listed. 

So, make sure you don’t only just go for sandwiches; try mixing up ingredients and making something of your own. 

If you have tried something from the above recipes, let me know in the comments!

You May Also Like 

• 24 Simple and Healthy Meals For Diabetics: Easy to Make Recipe Ideas
• 27 Easy & Healthy High-Protein Snack Ideas That Are Perfect For a Low-Calorie Diet 

References

1. “The Power of the Lunch Break | Eurest.” Eurest, eurest.co.uk/news-blog/the-power-of-the-lunch-break-latest-research-proves-their-importance/#:~:text=Despite%20these%20findings%2C%20the%20research,the%20key%20to%20sustained%20productivity.