Creating appealing and practical office meals can feel like a daily challenge. As summer arrives, salads and cool dishes rise to the top of the menu, but the best combinations aren’t always obvious.
That’s why five varied, wholesome options are recommended for easy planning and convenient packing.
rice salad
One of the season’s simplest and most satisfying choices, this dish works wonderfully for a midday meal. Use brown rice for a healthier twist and mix in your favorite vegetables. Common add-ins include tuna, peas, carrots, corn, and apples, yet the possibilities are endless: broccoli, bean sprouts, red fruits, or your preferred spices. Cook the rice with garlic and salt, then let it cool before folding in the other ingredients. If broccoli goes in, it can cook with the rice for a cohesive texture. A light dressing can be as simple as a teaspoon of mustard whisked with honey and olive oil for a subtle lift.
vegetable casserole
This is a traditional Spanish staple that travels well to the office and reheats nicely. If heating is not ideal, ready-to-warm options are widely available. Another approach is to repurpose leftovers from the previous day’s vegetables by sautéing them with bacon, turkey, ham, or chicken, then packing them into the container. The result is a comforting, satisfying meal that still feels fresh and versatile when reheated.
pea salad with tomatoes and boiled eggs
Peas stay fresh and flavorful even after a touch of cooking, and legumes like chickpeas are a great way to bolster the meal with protein. Cooked peas are convenient, or use pre-cooked ones for speed. Combine them with cherry tomatoes and a hard-boiled egg. This combination makes a reliable weekday option, especially when paired with a favorite sauce or vinaigrette.
zucchini and onion omelet
Egg-based dishes often save the day on rushed mornings. Omelets or tortillas can be prepared ahead and enjoyed hot or cold. This zucchini and onion version, paired with cottage cheese or fresh cheese, tomatoes, and a handful of mild sprouts, makes a tasty, portable lunch. A simple swap—replacing potatoes with light zucchini—keeps the dish light while preserving satisfying flavor and texture.
quinoa pan
Quinoa offers a healthy alternative to pasta or rice and adds variety to the daily lineup. It can be cooked from scratch or bought in precooked cups for a quick heat-and-eat option. Pair quinoa with grilled turkey or chicken slices and finish with wild asparagus, mushrooms, onions, and scrambled eggs for a bright, balanced meal. A touch of seafood, such as grilled shrimp, can elevate the dish further for a protein-rich option. (Citation: culinary best practices for batch-prepped meals)