Your workday meal deserves just as much attention as dinner, but, let’s face it, putting together something 
healthy for your lunch break is tough on weekdays. These six recipes—including a blender soup, a vegetarian sandwich, a healthy wrap, and flavor-packed salads—go together quickly and may be packaged in advance, freeing up precious time on weekdays when work, kids, and other responsibilities take top priority. When noontime rolls around, you’ll be able to relax with a delicious lunch that may very well be the highlight of your day—and the envy of your coworkers.
Carrot-Almond Pâté Sandwiches
Serves 4 / This protein-rich pâté is a tasty alternative to hummus. To save time, look for roasted almonds, but make sure they aren’t salted. This sandwich keeps well from morning until lunchtime. Pack a handful of grapes for dessert. View recipe
Spinach and Chickpea Salad with Mango Dressing
Serves 4 / Use a super-ripe mango to ensure a smooth dressing. Toss salad with dressing just before serving; leftover dressing will keep for three days in the refrigerator. A whole-grain roll or baguette nicely rounds out the meal. View recipe
Chilled Tomato-Vegetable Soup with Pecan-Parmesan Crisps
Serves 3 / If you like gazpacho, you’ll love this refreshing soup. Vegetables may be diced in advance to save time, but for best texture and color, add them and the edamame just before serving. When making crisps, be certain to use shredded Parmesan instead of grated; thick shards help the crisps hold together better. View recipe
Mexican Chopped Salad with Avocado Dressing
Serves 6 / Use a very ripe avocado to ensure a smooth dressing. If you’re packing this to go, keep the tomatoes, lettuce, dressing, and tortilla chips separate; mix just before serving. Serve with warm corn tortillas, plus fresh mango slices for dessert. View recipe
Chicken and Avocado Wrap with Roasted Red Pepper Spread
Serves 4 /This sandwich keeps well from morning to lunch, but because avocados tend to brown and turn mushy, assemble it no more than six hours before you plan to eat it. View recipe
Yogurt and Vegetable Salad
Serves 3–4 / This salad is delicious on its own but is also the perfect accompaniment to leftover grilled salmon or chicken. It will last longer if you remove seeds from the tomatoes and cucumbers. Take along a whole-wheat pita and you’ve got yourself a meal. View recipe
