I Made 21 Summer Lunch Recipes and Got to Sit Down

ByMandy

Making all 21 felt less like work and more like having a few tricks up your sleeve for once. The kind of lunches that don’t make you sweat think too hard or wash a pile of dishes just to eat. There was even time to drink something cold while sitting down like a normal person. That alone made them worth repeating.

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone knows a salad isn’t all about greens; sometimes, it’s about balance. Waldorf Salad mixes crisp, fresh textures with a touch of creaminess for a combination that’s hard to pass up. It’s a classic that feels modern enough for any lunch table.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Grilled chicken skewers with red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and onions are served on a white plate, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Skewers aren’t just about grilling food; they’re about fun, bite-sized flavors. Grilled Chicken Kabobs take juicy bites of chicken and pair them perfectly with a variety of other ingredients. These work well for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Artichoke Pizza

A pizza with artichokes, tomatoes and spinach.
Artichoke Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza can be reimagined in so many ways, and this is a great example. Artichoke Pizza brings something a little unexpected to your usual slice, with its unique twist. Every bite makes you rethink how pizza should taste.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A Caesar salad with grilled chicken, penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, croutons, and shredded cheese, topped with Caesar dressing on a bed of lettuce.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s hard to resist a dish that brings two favorites together into one. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines the creamy flavors of a Caesar salad with the hearty bite of pasta. It all comes together to make lunchtime feel more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

French Bread Pizza

Four slices of French bread pizza with tomatoes and cheese on a cutting board.
French Bread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Convenience doesn’t always mean compromise, and this is proof. French Bread Pizza turns a simple loaf into something that feels just right for a quick lunch. It’s versatile and a go-to option for your next easy meal.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza

Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Stack of golden-brown fritters topped with a red sauce, showing crispy edges and bits of herbs.
Air Fryer Chicken Fritters. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes crispy foods get overlooked, but they don’t always have to be fried. Air Fryer Chicken Fritters give you all the crunch you could want without the guilt of heavy oils. It’s a snack that doesn’t feel like one.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Green Salad

A close-up of a fresh green salad with mixed leafy greens, cucumber slices, and pecans on a plate with a gold fork.
Green Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A lot of folks think simple means boring, but that’s not always true. Green Salad is all about fresh, clean flavors that don’t need much dressing up. It’s a go-to for when you want something light yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Green Salad

Lobster Roll

A close-up of a sandwich roll filled with chunks of seasoned lobster meat, garnished with chopped chives.
Lobster Roll. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few lunches feel as fresh and indulgent without being heavy as this one. Lobster Roll brings together soft bread and tender ingredients to create a laid-back yet classy option. It’s one of those dishes that never feels out of place.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

It’s always fun when veggies take center stage in a dish. Pasta Primavera does exactly that by combining fresh ingredients and making them the highlight. This dish makes lunchtime feel lighter without leaving you hungry.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, smaller dishes bring bigger flavors, and this is one of those times. Ham and Cheese Sliders pack everything you enjoy from a sandwich into a compact, tasty option. Ideal for when you want something quick and easy without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Taco Salad

A taco salad served in an edible tortilla bowl, topped with ground meat, lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado, and shredded cheese.
Taco Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Why settle for tacos or salads when you can have both at once? Taco Salad combines the crunch and spices you love in a taco with the refreshing feel of a salad. It’s what you make when you can’t decide between two tasty choices.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate.
Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rolls are always satisfying, but adding a crunch takes it to another level. Shrimp Tempura Roll manages to hit that crisp, fresh combo you’ll keep coming back for. Whether it’s lunch or a snack, this roll is always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mixing textures and flavors isn’t just for dinner; you can enjoy it anytime. Antipasto Salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients come together beautifully. It’s hearty without being too heavy and great for a midday boost.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Spicy Udon Noodles

Close-up of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, including carrots, green beans, and chopped red peppers, garnished with sesame seeds. Chopsticks are picking up some noodles.
Spicy Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing some heat to lunch is always a good call. Spicy Udon Noodles have the kick you’ve been craving, with a chewy texture to match. It’s perfect for breaking up everyday meals. It’s hard to beat how filling and tasty it is.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mixing sweet with crunch can completely change how you look at a salad. Honeycrisp Salad brings a fresh combination of ingredients without overcomplicating things. It’s a great option when you want light, balanced flavors.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Sweetcorn Fritters

Sweetcorn fritters in a stack.
Sweetcorn Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something about small bites that pack a punch of flavor. Sweetcorn Fritters offer a crispy texture with a soft bite inside that makes them hard to put down. Perfect for side dishes or as the star of your meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweetcorn Fritters

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tacos aren’t just reserved for full-size portions anymore. Mini Tacos give you big flavor in small bites, making them perfect for when you’re on the go. They’re fun, shareable, and still feel like the tacos you know and love.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you don’t have time for a full pizza, why not make it simple? Tortilla Pizza takes everything you love about pizza and puts it on a thin base. It’s quick, fun, and doesn’t require any extra steps or waiting. It’s a creative way to change up lunch.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Mushroom Tacos

Three soft tacos filled with lettuce, mushrooms, shredded cheese, and cherry tomatoes, garnished with a lime wedge.
Mushroom Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tacos can surprise you with the variety of ways they can be made. Mushroom Tacos switch things up by making mushrooms the star ingredient. It’s a fun and creative twist on a go-to favorite. They’re flavorful, hearty, and anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tacos

Zucchini Fritters

A stack of zucchini fritters topped with sour cream, thinly sliced shallots, and a sprig of dill.
Zucchini Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Vegetables don’t always need to be boring or straightforward. Zucchini Fritters make them interesting by adding that crispy, golden twist. A great pick for anyone who wants more than just a plate of greens.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Why leave home when you can make something just as good? Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl brings all those classic layers and flavors to your table. It’s everything you love packed into one bowl without waiting in a long line.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

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