Lunch made healthy – easy ideas for WFH or office days
Need some healthier lunch inspiration? Feeling the pinch on your bank account, and your time?
Rising prices seem to be affecting everything, from groceries to energy. As a result, people are left looking for ways to cut back on expenses wherever possible.
One expense that can quickly add up is lunch for work. To make matters worse, sometimes it seems like the “healthier” lunch options are more expensive!
However, with a bit of planning and creativity, it’s possible to enjoy delicious and nutritious lunches without breaking the bank. Here are some tips…
Take time (doesn’t have to be loads) to plan your lunch
You don’t have to become one of those “meal prep is my personality” people. Just pick one hour on Sunday (press play on your favourite podcast or playlist), and batch cook a couple of easy lunches. For example:
A salad jar containing couscous or quinoa salad with roasted veg and feta
A tray of seasoned chicken thighs or tofu to mix and match
A soup or stew that gets better over time (hello, chilli!)
Pop them into containers (or jars), and you’ve got lunches sorted for at least a few days. Easy.
Mix it up so you don’t get bored
Nobody wants to eat the same sandwich every day. Mix up textures and flavours to keep lunch exciting:
Crunch: Add nuts, seeds, or sliced veggies
Zing: A squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar goes a long way
Creaminess: Avocado, hummus, or a dollop of Greek yoghurt can turn a “meh” meal into something magic
Embrace leftovers for lunch
Leftovers are your best friend when it comes to saving money on lunches, so instead of letting them go to waste, re-purpose them into a delicious lunch for the next day. Think things such as stir-fries, salads, wraps, or grain bowls.
DIY snack foods
Make your own snacks such as trail mix, energy bars, granola bars or yogurt pots at a fraction of the cost. Not only will this save you money, but it also allows you to customise your snacks to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
And if you don’t have time to make your own snacks, Graze has a fantastic range of healthier snacks for you to enjoy. They’re certainly a favourite in our office.
Think portable (even for WFH)
If you’re working from home, it’s still worth “packing” your lunch – either literally or mentally. By prepping it in advance, it means you’re not tempted to nibble your way through the cheese in the fridge at 1pm.
For office days, aim for stuff that travels well and doesn’t make your desk smell like a chip shop (yes Henry, we’re looking at you!).
Pasta salads with pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives
Frittatas or egg muffins
Rice paper rolls or wraps with a dipping sauce
Bonus tip: keep a little stash of healthy bits at work – herbal or fruit tea bags, oatcakes, peanut butter, and a sneaky dark chocolate square for emergencies.
Keep hydrated (because tea doesn’t count…entirely)
Yes, we Brits love a cuppa, but don’t forget to keep the water flowing too. Dehydration can feel like hunger and lead to those 3pm “accidental” biscuit binges.
Jazz up your water bottle with fresh fruit slices, mint, or a splash of squash.
Don’t be too strict with yourself
Healthy doesn’t mean perfect. It’s all about balance. If you want that sausage roll on Friday, have it, but just make sure your week’s not entirely built on beige food and wishful thinking.
Final thoughts
Planning healthy lunches isn’t about going full Gwyneth Paltrow. Ultimately, it’s about making workdays easier, tastier, and keeping that brain fuelled for whatever nonsense the inbox throws your way.
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