12 Energizing Lunches That’ll Power You Through the Day
When you need a lunch that keeps you going through the day, it’s important to choose meals that are filling and energizing. These lunches are made to fuel you up without slowing you down, helping you power through your afternoon. Each option combines satisfying ingredients for a lasting meal. With these energizing choices, you’ll be ready to handle whatever the day brings.
Greek Quinoa Salad
This Greek Quinoa Salad takes about 30 minutes to make and combines quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives. The quinoa gives it a light, nutty flavor, while the veggies add a refreshing crunch. With feta cheese and a lemony olive oil dressing, it’s savory with a hint of brightness. It’s a perfect choice to keep you energized throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad
Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl
The Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl is a quick 25-minute lunch that features juicy grilled shrimp, hearty grains, and fresh veggies. The shrimp adds a tender, slightly smoky flavor, complemented by the earthy grains and a tangy dressing. Avocado and leafy greens add freshness, making each bite a balanced mix of flavors. This bowl is perfect for a midday boost that keeps you full.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl
Roasted Cabbage Steaks
These Roasted Cabbage Steaks take about 40 minutes and are topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of cheese. The roasted cabbage becomes tender with slightly caramelized edges, and the bacon adds a smoky crunch. It’s a savory and filling dish that’s surprisingly hearty for a vegetable-based option. Perfect for a satisfying lunch that’s a little different.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Chicken Shawarma Plate
This Chicken Shawarma Plate is ready in 45 minutes and is packed with marinated chicken, warm spices, and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, with a bit of smoky heat from the spices. It’s served with a creamy garlic sauce for a bright, tangy finish. This meal is full of vibrant flavors and perfect for powering you through your day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate
Panko Crusted Rockfish
The Panko Crusted Rockfish takes 30 minutes to prepare and features tender fish fillets coated in crispy panko crumbs. The rockfish is mild, while the crust adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite light but flavorful. A lemon wedge on the side brightens it up, making the dish feel fresh. It’s a great choice for a lunch that’s both light and filling.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Rockfish
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet
This Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is ready in 30 minutes and combines tender chicken breasts with a rich balsamic cream sauce. The balsamic vinegar adds a sweet tanginess, while the creamy sauce makes it feel indulgent without being too heavy. It’s paired with veggies for a balanced, satisfying meal. This is a comforting dish that’s ideal for keeping you fueled through the afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet
Zucchini Noodle Salad
The Zucchini Noodle Salad is a 20-minute dish made with spiralized zucchini, fresh tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing. The zucchini noodles have a refreshing crunch, while the tomatoes add a juicy burst of flavor. Tossed with olive oil and lemon, this salad is light but still satisfying. It’s a perfect lunch for when you want something fresh and energizing.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad
Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf
This Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf takes 40 minutes and combines juicy pork chops with succulent shrimp. The pork is grilled to perfection with a smoky, savory flavor, while the shrimp adds a touch of sweetness. The pairing creates a hearty, balanced meal that feels like a treat. It’s perfect for a satisfying lunch that’ll power you through the day.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf
Buttermilk Brined Turkey
The Buttermilk Brined Turkey takes a bit longer at around 3 hours, but the result is worth it. The turkey breast comes out tender and juicy, thanks to the buttermilk brine, with a rich flavor that’s comforting and familiar. It’s perfect for a special lunch or when you want something a little more substantial. While it takes longer to prepare, it can still be made in advance and used for lunch. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Brined Turkey
Loaded Bruschetta Recipe
This Loaded Bruschetta is a quick 15-minute recipe featuring toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The tomatoes are juicy and sweet, balanced by the tangy balsamic and fragrant basil. It’s a light, yet flavorful bite that’s perfect for a simple, refreshing lunch. This bruschetta brings a burst of flavor that’ll keep you going.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Bruschetta Recipe
Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast
This Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast takes about 45 minutes and features tender turkey coated in a crunchy hazelnut crust. The hazelnuts add a rich, nutty flavor, while the turkey remains juicy and succulent. Paired with a simple side salad, it’s a satisfying meal that feels a little special. Perfect for a midday pick-me-up that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast
25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger
This Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger takes only 25 minutes and brings together juicy beef patties, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado. The beef is hearty and rich, while the bacon adds a salty crunch and the avocado smooths everything out. All the flavors work together for a satisfying, flavorful bite. It’s a great option to keep you going through the day.
Get the Recipe: 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger