5 Budget-Friendly Lunch Box Ideas for Work
Bringing your own lunch to work is a smart way to save money. With so many delicious and budget-friendly options available, there’s no reason to spend a small fortune on restaurant meals. Here are some lunch box ideas that will keep you fueled and satisfied throughout the workday without breaking the bank.
Mason Jar Salads
Mason jars are perfect for preparing salads ahead of time, and they add a fun element to your lunch. Layer your favorite greens, veggies, beans, and protein sources in the jar, and store it in the fridge. Dressing goes on the bottom, and the greens stay crisp and fresh on top. When you’re ready to eat, just dump the jar contents into a bowl and enjoy. You can make a week’s worth of mason jar salads on Sunday night and have lunch ready to go for the entire week.
Veggie Wraps
Wraps are an excellent option for a hearty and satisfying midday meal. Fill a wrap with your choice of veggies, protein, and a spread of hummus or guacamole. Wraps can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to four days. Just wrap them up in plastic wrap and bring them to work.
Quinoa Bowls
Quinoa bowls are great for a healthy, filling, and budget-friendly lunch. Cook up some quinoa according to the package instructions, and mix in some veggies like roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and kale. Add some protein, like chickpeas or lentils, and top it off with a drizzle of dressing. You can make a big batch of quinoa bowls on Sunday and divide them into portions for the week ahead.
Leftovers
An easy way to save money and time is to pack leftovers for work. When you’re cooking dinner, make an extra serving or two and store it in the fridge. The next day, heat it up and pack it for lunch. Whether it’s leftover soup, stir-fry, or pasta, you can get creative with your leftovers. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container and heat them up in the microwave or a toaster oven at work.
Egg Salad
Egg salad is a classic lunch option that’s protein-packed and budget-friendly. Boil some eggs ahead of time, peel them, and mash them up with some mayo and mustard. Add some veggies like celery and onion for flavor and crunch. Pack your egg salad in a container with some crackers or whole-wheat bread and a side of fruit for a complete and satisfying lunch.
In conclusion: With these five budget-friendly lunch box ideas, you can save money and eat healthy at the same time. From mason jar salads to leftovers and egg salad, there are plenty of options to choose from. Prepping your lunch ahead of time will also save you time and make the workday run a little smoother.
