29 Summer Lunch Recipes That Just Got Me Through

ByMandy Applegate

When the days heat up, lunch shouldn’t feel like another chore. That’s where having 29 quick, breezy options comes in handy. They’re light enough to keep moving but still hit the spot. Great for poolside breaks, park picnics, or pretending the back porch counts as a tropical getaway.

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

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.

Light vegetables combined with a hearty pasta create an easy yet pleasing dish. Pasta Primavera brings a perfect mix of freshness and warmth to lunch. It’s versatile enough to stand alone or work as part of a bigger meal. Great for those days when a lighter but flavorful dish is needed.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Avocado Toast

Various avocado toasts with toppings including cherry tomatoes, fried eggs, black olives, and feta cheese on a parchment-lined surface.
Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy texture pairs with a delicious crunch to make this quick option stand out. Avocado Toast is simple yet feels fresh and upgraded. It’s customizable depending on how you serve it, which makes it perfect for lunch. A reliable choice for something easy but enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A bright and fresh twist on traditional pasta that’s hard to resist. Best Lemon Pasta balances light flavors with a rich, comforting base. It’s great on its own or paired with a simple side dish. Perfect for when there’s a need for something quick yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized wraps filled with layers of enjoyable textures make this meal option fun to eat. Pinwheel Sandwiches are perfect for easy serving at lunch tables. They’re mess-free while still managing to be filling and versatile. Ideal for sharing or as the main element of a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mix of pasta and refreshing add-ins to create a balanced and easy-to-eat dish. Mediterranean Orzo Salad keeps flavors simple while standing out as a healthy lunch option. Works well as both a side and a main meal for lighter appetites. Perfect for something quick yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

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.

Customizable bowl that packs bold flavors and pleasing textures in one go. Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl is great for assembling with a mix that caters to individual preferences. It’s hearty while still feeling fresh, making it a great lunch idea. Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute pickup.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich yet straightforward pasta dish that brings comfort to any table. Cacio e Pepe relies on simple elements to create a standout lunch recipe. It’s a great option when nothing too complicated is needed but flavor is key. Easy to prepare, easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy and hearty without being overly heavy, this soup is a comforting option. White Bean Soup brings warmth to the table while offering a balanced lunch choice. It’s smooth yet full of texture, making it both light and fulfilling. Ideal for pairing with a slice of bread or a simple side.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

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.

Crispy on the outside with a soft interior, Zucchini Fritters are perfect for lunch. These fritters create a nice balance between a light meal and a snack. Great when paired with a dip or placed alongside something heartier. They’re easy to grab and go, which makes them super convenient.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

Veggie Sliders

Close-up of a Veggie Burger Slider with a fried patty, sliced cucumber, shredded purple cabbage, greens, and mayonnaise in a bun. In the background, a blurred portion of another slider and a dish are visible.
Veggie Sliders. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mini but full of flavor, these sliders offer a plant-based twist on a classic option. Veggie Sliders are great for adding variety to simple lunch menus. Small enough to try different toppings yet filling enough on their own. Fun to eat and perfect for groups or solo meals.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Sliders

Elevated Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen with soft-boiled egg, vegetables, and sesame seeds.
Elevated Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Basic noodles get a complete upgrade in this versatile lunch recipe. Elevated Ramen Noodles combine classic comfort with add-ins that make it stand out. It’s perfect when a quick meal is needed without compromising on flavor. Great on its own or paired with a lighter side option.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Easy Flatbread

Three freshly cooked flatbreads on a plate.
Easy Flatbread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft bread meets a variety of choices for toppings to create a simple yet tasty meal. Easy Flatbread is super versatile, making it great for quick lunches. Perfect as a snack or full meal, depending on how you serve it. A go-to option for something warm and satisfying without the effort of larger dishes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich, earthy flavors cover every bite of this easy-to-make favorite. Mushroom Pizza brings a unique twist with its toppings while delivering classic lunch vibes. Great for sharing or keeping for yourself as a complete meal. Offers the perfect balance of fresh and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm veggies paired with a cool pasta base ensure that each bite is just right. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies brings out the best of simple textures and flavors. It’s hearty enough for a meal but light enough for second helpings. Perfect for prepping ahead when there’s a busy day coming up.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Chickpea Nuggets

A plate of chickpea nuggets with a bowl of sauce.
Chickpea Nuggets. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy bites that offer a meat-free option without sacrificing flavor. Chickpea Nuggets are simple yet filling, making them a great go-to lunch recipe. They’re easy to pair with dips or other sides, depending on what’s needed. Perfect for enjoying with others or keeping all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Nuggets

Easy Burrito

Someone stacking veggie burritos.
Easy Burrito. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A rolled-up bundle of flavor that works for nearly any craving. Easy Burrito brings together bold textures and a solid balance of elements. It’s simple to adjust based on what’s on hand, making it flexible for quick lunches. A convenient way to keep things mess-free and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito

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.

All the best pizza elements stacked on top of a crispy baguette base. French Bread Pizza takes a classic dish and makes it perfect for quick lunches. The crust stays firm enough to handle extra toppings and sauces. A fun way to enjoy lunch without much effort.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza

Udon Noodles

A close-up of stir-fried noodles with green beans, red bell peppers, and carrots, garnished with sesame seeds.
Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Thick chewy noodles provide the perfect base for a quick and filling lunch. Udon Noodles highlight simple flavors that hold up with endless topping possibilities. They’re hearty enough to stand alone in a bowl or mix with other sides. A great alternative to more familiar pasta dishes.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table.
Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gooey melted cheese inside a crunchy layer makes this a stress-free option. Cheese Quesadilla keeps things simple but never boring, ideal for busy days. It’s quick, comforting, and easy to pair with dips or sides. Perfect for when nothing else in the fridge sounds good.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A chilled pasta dish that offers a balance between light and hearty flavors. Macaroni Salad is a dependable choice for days when something easy but filling is needed. It’s perfect for prepping ahead if simplicity is the priority. Great for lunches at home or packing to go.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Corn Fritters

A stack of corn fritters topped with a dollop of cream and chopped green onions, served on a plate with a bowl of dipping sauce nearby.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Small crispy bites packed with a lightly sweet center make these great for splitting. Corn Fritters are versatile enough for light snacking or a complete meal. Pair with a dip or enjoy plain, they work well either way. An easy recipe that’s great for sharing during lunch breaks.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

All the best parts of pizza turned into a bowl-friendly option without the crust. Pizza Salad mixes hearty elements with the freshness of greens to balance things out. It’s an exciting twist for fans of toppings who want a lighter lunch idea. Simple to assemble and fun to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layered ingredients on a crispy base give these tarts their unique appeal. Caprese Pesto Tarts are perfect for when you want something that feels a bit more special. They’re small enough to enjoy as part of a mix but filling as a standalone. A fun choice when lunch deserves something different.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Italian Pasta Salad

Bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a green bowl.
Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic cold dish filled with options that work for lunch or sides. Italian Pasta Salad stays balanced between crunchy and soft add-ins. Quick to prep and easy to store makes it a go-to for busier weeks. A reliable recipe for any kind of meal.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kabobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skewered veggies cooked perfectly over an open flame add variety to any lunch lineup. Grilled Veggie Kabobs are simple yet feel more exciting than a basic vegetable side. Great for pairing with grains or as a standalone light meal. They’re easy to prep and always welcome on the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Morel Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of cavatappi pasta with morel mushrooms, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Morel Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bold mushrooms bring an earthy quality to a simple pasta base. Morel Mushroom Pasta feels indulgent yet remains straightforward to create for lunch. Perfect when you want something warm but not too heavy. An excellent twist for mushroom lovers who enjoy something beyond basic options.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Honeycrisp Salad

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

Crisp fresh elements come together for a balance of lightness and crunch. Honeycrisp Salad is a refreshing choice for when you need a break from heavier meals. Works great as a main or paired with warm sides like bread or soup. A reliable mix for keeping things easy yet thoughtful.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Tortilla Pizza

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

Thin crispy bases, topped however you like, turn this into a fun lunch option. Tortilla Pizza blends convenience and creativity without overthinking things. Quick to make and easy to serve, everyone gets what they want. Perfect for last-minute meals that still have a homemade feel.
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.

Earthy flavors and comforting textures inside a soft shell make these a great taco option. Mushroom Tacos are perfect for something handheld yet still unique. They pair well with both classic and modern sauces, depending on your vibe. A fun change for lunch that stays flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tacos

A vegetarian for over 45 years, Mandy has taught herself to be creative in the kitchen, using traditional appliances and air fryers. Traveling extensively, Mandy loves learning and adapting vegetarian recipes from across the world.

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