Remember those little plastic trays filled with crackers, cheese, and mystery meat that you used to beg your parents for at the grocery store?
Well, it’s time to give those nostalgic lunchables a grown-up, health-conscious makeover!
As adults, we need nutritious, balanced meals to power through our busy days, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun with our food.
Let’s dive into 15 healthy lunchables that’ll make your coworkers jealous and your taste buds dance.
1. Mediterranean Mezze Platter
Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Greece with this colorful and nutritious spread:
- Whole wheat pita triangles
- Homemade hummus
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese cubes
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
- A small container of tzatziki sauce
This protein-packed, fiber-rich combo will keep you satisfied and dreaming of your next vacation.
2. Sushi Roll Deconstructed
Who says you can’t have sushi for lunch? This deconstructed version is just as delicious:
- Brown rice
- Nori sheets
- Sliced avocado
- Cucumber sticks
- Cooked and chilled shrimp or smoked salmon
- Edamame
- A small container of low-sodium soy sauce
Mix and match to create your own hand rolls, or enjoy each component separately for a Japanese-inspired feast.
3. Breakfast for Lunch
Who doesn’t love breakfast foods? This protein-rich lunchable will keep you fueled all afternoon:
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Turkey bacon (cooked and chilled)
- Whole grain toast triangles
- Sliced apple
- Almond butter
- A small container of Greek yogurt
It’s like Sunday brunch in a box, minus the mimosas (save those for the weekend).
4. Southwest Fiesta
Spice up your lunch routine with this Tex-Mex inspired spread:
- Whole grain tortilla chips
- Black bean dip
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Grilled chicken strips
- Shredded lettuce
- A lime wedge for squeezing
Feel free to assemble mini tacos or just dive in with your chips. Either way, it’s a fiesta in your mouth!
5. Charcuterie Champion
Channel your inner food blogger with this sophisticated adult lunchable:
- Whole grain crackers
- Sliced prosciutto or turkey
- Aged cheddar cubes
- Green and red grapes
- Walnut halves
- Dried apricots
- A small container of whole grain mustard
It’s like a fancy cheese board, but totally packable and perfect for portion control.
6. Plant-Based Power Bowl
For our veggie-loving friends, this nutrient-dense combo will keep you energized:
- Quinoa
- Roasted chickpeas
- Steamed broccoli florets
- Shredded carrots
- Sliced almonds
- A small container of lemon-tahini dressing
Mix it all together for a Buddha bowl on-the-go, or enjoy each component separately.
7. Asian-Inspired Bento Box
Take a culinary trip to the Far East with this colorful and balanced meal:
- Brown rice or cauliflower rice
- Teriyaki tofu cubes
- Steamed edamame
- Sesame-ginger cucumber salad
- Mandarin orange segments
- A small container of sriracha mayo for dipping
It’s like your favorite takeout, but healthier and perfectly portioned.
8. Italian Antipasto Platter
Bring a taste of Italy to your lunch break with this classic combination:
- Whole grain breadsticks
- Mozzarella balls
- Cherry tomatoes
- Sliced bell peppers
- Artichoke hearts
- Rolled-up slices of lean turkey or chicken
- A small container of balsamic glaze
Mangia! This lunchable is sure to satisfy your Mediterranean cravings.
9. Breakfast Parfait 2.0
Who says parfaits are just for breakfast? This layered delight works any time of day:
- Greek yogurt
- Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Low-sugar granola
- Chia seeds
- A drizzle of honey
- Sliced almonds
Layer it all in a jar for an Instagram-worthy lunch that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
10. DIY Taco Tuesday
Every day can be Taco Tuesday with this customizable spread:
- Corn tortillas
- Seasoned ground turkey or lentils
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Low-fat shredded cheese
- A small container of salsa
- Sliced jalapenos (if you like it spicy)
Assemble your own tacos for a hands-on lunch experience that’ll make you forget all about that sad desk salad.
11. Chicken Caesar Wrap Kit
Give the classic Caesar salad a portable makeover:
- Whole wheat tortilla
- Grilled chicken strips
- Romaine lettuce leaves
- Parmesan cheese shavings
- Cherry tomatoes
- A small container of Greek yogurt Caesar dressing
Roll it up for a wrap, or enjoy it deconstructed – the choice is yours!
12. Protein-Packed Snack Box
Sometimes you just need a variety of snacks to get through the day. This protein-rich combo has got you covered:
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Turkey roll-ups
- Babybel cheese rounds
- Almonds and pistachios
- Carrot and celery sticks
- A small container of hummus
It’s like a greatest hits album of healthy snacks, all in one convenient package.
13. Mediterranean Grain Bowl
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast with this hearty and healthy bowl:
- Cooked and chilled farro or barley
- Grilled chicken or chickpeas
- Diced cucumber and tomatoes
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Kalamata olives
- A small container of Greek vinaigrette
Mix it all together for a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition.
14. Savory Waffle Sandwich
Who says waffles are just for sweet toppings? This savory twist will revolutionize your lunch game:
- Whole grain or protein waffles (toasted and chilled)
- Sliced turkey or ham
- Swiss cheese
- Sliced avocado
- Baby spinach leaves
- A small container of honey mustard
Assemble your sandwich at lunchtime for a fun and tasty meal that’s anything but boring.
15. Build-Your-Own Buddha Bowl
For those who love options, this DIY Buddha bowl kit is a dream come true:
- Quinoa or brown rice
- Roasted sweet potato cubes
- Steamed broccoli florets
- Edamame
- Sliced avocado
- Pumpkin seeds
- A small container of miso-ginger dressing
Mix and match to create your perfect bowl, packed with plant-based goodness and tons of flavor.
There you have it – 15 healthy lunchables that prove adulting doesn’t have to be boring or tasteless. These grown-up versions of your childhood favorite are not only delicious but also packed with the nutrients you need to conquer your day. Say goodbye to sad desk lunches and hello to exciting, nutritious meals that’ll make you look forward to your lunch break.
Remember, the key to sticking with healthy eating is keeping things interesting and enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to mix and match components from different lunchables to create your own unique combinations. And hey, if you want to arrange your food in a smiley face like you did when you were a kid, we won’t judge. After all, who says being a healthy adult means you can’t have a little fun with your food?
So go ahead, channel your inner child with these nostalgic yet nutritious lunchables. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you. Happy lunching, grown-ups!