Lunch Recipes
Midday meals to fuel your afternoon — from quick bites to proper sit-down lunches.
Lunch should be something to look forward to, not a sad sandwich at your desk. Our lunch collection ranges from quick wraps, salads, and soups that take minutes to prepare, right through to more substantial dishes perfect for a weekend lunch with friends. Every recipe is designed to be satisfying, flavourful, and safe for your dietary needs.
Latest Lunch Recipes
990 recipes in this category
Tuna Patties
These tuna patties have become a weeknight favorite in my kitchen because they're ready in under twenty minutes and honestly cost just a few dollars to make. I love that canned tuna is packed with omega 3 fatty acids that are great for your heart and brain, plus it means no special shopping required. The bright lemon juice and fresh herbs keep things from tasting fishy, and that little kick of hot sauce adds so much flavor without any fuss. They're crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfect with just some lemon wedges on the side.
Chicken à la King
This elegant chicken à la king is one of my go to dishes when I want something that feels fancy but comes together in under an hour. The beauty of this recipe is how simple it actually is, despite tasting like you spent all afternoon cooking. Sautéed mushrooms and tender chicken in a creamy, wine infused sauce make this absolutely comforting, and the mushrooms bring wonderful umami flavor plus beneficial compounds that support immune health. It's perfect for using up leftover chicken, which keeps costs down, and everything comes together in just 40 minutes total. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Minestrone in minutes
When you're craving a warming, homemade soup but don't have much time, this is the recipe I turn to. Minestrone in minutes comes together in just eight minutes of cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something nourishing and delicious. Using frozen vegetables means there's no chopping involved, and they're actually packed with nutrients since they're frozen at peak ripeness. The pesto stirred through at the end adds wonderful flavor without any fussing, while the whole thing costs very little to make. It's honest, satisfying comfort food that proves you don't need hours in the kitchen to eat well.
Speedy lentil coconut curry
This speedy lentil coconut curry is my go to weeknight dinner when I need something wholesome on the table fast. With just twenty minutes of cooking time, it comes together quicker than you'd think, and the best part is it relies on simple pantry staples and frozen veg so there's minimal prep involved. Green lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this a genuinely nourishing meal that keeps you satisfied, and the creamy coconut milk balances the warming spices beautifully. Serve it over brown rice with a dollop of yogurt for pure comfort in a bowl.
Roasted carrot & whipped feta tart
This is one of my go to tarts when I want something that looks impressive but doesn't require much fussing around. Roasted carrots get sweet and tender while you prep everything else, and the whipped feta is so creamy you'd never guess it's actually quite good for you with all that protein and probiotics from the yogurt. The whole thing comes together in about an hour and uses just a block of puff pastry to do the heavy lifting, so there's minimal skill required. It's perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping, and honestly tastes even better the next day when all those flavors have had time to get cozy together.
Basa fillet with garlic, spring onion & paprika butter
This is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in just fifteen minutes flat. Basa is such an affordable white fish, and it's naturally lean and packed with protein, making it perfect for a lighter meal that still feels satisfying. The garlic and paprika butter transforms these delicate fillets into something really special, while the spring onions add a fresh, bright note. Serve it over rice or potatoes with your favourite vegetables, and you've got an impressive dinner that tastes like you've spent far more time in the kitchen than you actually have.
Monte Cristo sandwich
Here's my go to sandwich when I want something impressive but don't have much time. The Monte Cristo is basically a fancy take on a classic club sandwich, but dipped in egg and pan fried until it's golden and crispy. I love making this because it comes together in just twenty minutes total, and you probably have most of the ingredients already in your kitchen. The ham and turkey give you lean protein while the Emmental adds a lovely nutty flavor, and honestly, it's so satisfying that you won't need much else for lunch. Best of all, it's budget friendly and requires minimal effort, which means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Harissa broccoli & flatbreads
This is my go to weeknight dinner when I want something really quick but still feels special. I've been making these soft, pillowy flatbreads paired with roasted broccoli and harissa for about a year now, and honestly, it never gets old. The whole thing comes together in just thirty minutes, which means you can have dinner on the table faster than ordering takeaway. What I love most is that broccoli is absolutely packed with vitamins and fiber, so you're getting something genuinely good for you alongside food that tastes indulgent. The flatbread dough is embarrassingly simple too, requiring just three ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It's become my favorite way to impress people without actually breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Spicy root & lentil casserole
This is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and tastes absolutely comforting. The combination of warming spices with earthy root vegetables and protein packed red lentils creates something really satisfying that feels fancy but requires barely any fuss. Red lentils are brilliant because they're packed with fiber and plant based protein, so this casserole keeps you full and energized without breaking the bank. Everything goes into one pot, the flavors meld beautifully, and you end up with a nourishing meal that's perfect for cold evenings.
Prawn & harissa spaghetti
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 15 minutes, which means you can have a restaurant quality meal on the table before you know it. The harissa paste brings this wonderful smoky, spiced depth that makes the prawns and cherry tomatoes sing, while the broccoli adds a nutritious punch of vitamins and fibre to keep things wholesome. It's simple enough that you don't need any fancy cooking skills, yet impressive enough to serve when friends drop by. Best of all, it uses just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, so you won't break the bank making it.
Easy risotto with bacon & peas
This is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in just under an hour and honestly feels fancy without any fuss. The bacon adds such a delicious savory depth, while the frozen peas are a lifesaver that keep this budget friendly and require zero prep work. Plus peas are packed with fiber and protein, so you're getting something genuinely nutritious alongside all that creamy, comforting rice. Whether you're cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this risotto delivers every single time.
Healthy chicken burritos
These healthy chicken burritos are my go to weeknight dinner when I want something satisfying but nutritious. They come together in just 35 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for busy evenings. I love using wholemeal tortillas and black beans, which are packed with fibre to keep you fuller for longer. The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward it is, with most ingredients either straight from the cupboard or quick to prepare. You can easily meal prep these or customize them to suit everyone's tastes, which makes them ideal for feeding a family without fuss.
Spanakopita
You're going to love this spanakopita, honestly. It's a Greek spinach pie that comes together in just forty minutes, and the best part is how simple it really is. I throw together spinach, feta, eggs, and sundried tomatoes in crispy filo pastry, and suddenly you've got something that tastes fancy but requires barely any effort. Spinach is absolutely packed with iron and vitamins, so you're eating something genuinely nutritious. Since everything comes straight from the pantry or fridge, there's no hunting around for obscure ingredients either. Perfect weeknight dinner or impressive enough for guests.
Brussels sprouts winter salad with clementine dressing
This bright winter salad has become my go to when I need something nourishing but quick. Raw brussels sprouts and kale are packed with vitamins and fiber that keep me feeling energized through the cold months, and the best part is there's no cooking required for the greens themselves. The clementine dressing brings such a lovely citrusy sweetness that makes even vegetable skeptics ask for seconds. Pine nuts and pomegranate seeds add a luxurious touch, but honestly, the whole thing comes together in under 40 minutes and costs far less than ordering a salad out. It's my favorite way to make winter vegetables feel exciting again.
Hummus flatbread pizzas with roasted veg
Here's my favorite go to when I want something that feels a bit special but doesn't require much fuss. These hummus flatbread pizzas come together in under an hour and are packed with roasted vegetables that make them feel so much more satisfying than your typical takeaway. The hummus base is brilliant because it's naturally creamy and packed with protein and fiber, so you're getting real nutrition without any heavy cream or cheese. What I love most is how simple the whole thing is to pull together, especially the yogurt and flour dough that barely needs any kneading. It's one of those recipes that looks impressive when it hits the table but actually takes very little effort in the kitchen.
Flamiche
My family absolutely loves this flamiche, a traditional French leek tart that comes together surprisingly quickly. The beauty of this recipe is that it's ready in just over an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor. Leeks are the star here, and beyond being delicious, they're packed with vitamins and minerals that support heart health. The combination of buttery leeks, tangy crème fraîche, and nutty cheese creates something truly special that tastes far more impressive than the minimal effort it requires. Serve it warm with a simple salad and you've got an elegant meal that proves you don't need complicated cooking to impress the people you love.
Vegan burritos
These vegan burritos have become my go to meal whenever I need something satisfying yet quick to pull together. What I love most is that they're genuinely affordable to make and come together in under 40 minutes total, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The black beans are packed with fiber and protein, keeping you full for hours, while the avocado adds creamy richness that makes these feel totally indulgent. Everything gets wrapped up in soft tortillas with fresh coriander, lime, and a chipotle tomato sauce that's honestly addictive. Trust me, once you make these once, you'll be craving them constantly.
Vegan jambalaya
This vegan jambalaya is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 45 minutes from start to table. I love how the smoked paprika and chilli give it that authentic Louisiana warmth without needing any meat, and the brown basmati rice provides wonderful fiber to keep you satisfied long after dinner. The best part? It's incredibly affordable since everything comes straight from the pantry or produce section, and you only need one pot. Serve it warm with extra parsley on top and watch everyone come back for seconds.
Vegan chickpea curry jacket potatoes
This is one of my favorite go to meals when I want something satisfying and wholesome without spending ages in the kitchen. Fluffy baked sweet potatoes topped with a fragrant chickpea curry is comfort food at its finest, and honestly, it costs next to nothing to make. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A which is brilliant for your skin and eyes, plus they're naturally sweet so they pair beautifully with the warming spices. The whole thing comes together in under an hour, and most of that time is just letting the oven do the work for you. It's the kind of dish that tastes like you've spent all afternoon cooking when really you've barely broken a sweat.
Vegan chilli
This vegan chilli is my go to weeknight dinner when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 45 minutes of cooking time, you'll have a big pot of warming, flavourful goodness on the table. I love how budget friendly it is too, mostly using pantry staples and affordable vegetables. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and are packed with vitamin A, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious. Topped with lime wedges and creamy guacamole, it's genuinely one of those meals that tastes indulgent while being completely plant based and wholesome.
Katsu sandos
These katsu sandos are my go to when I want something impressive but don't have much time. The beauty of this recipe is that it comes together in just twenty minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. I love using prawns and pork because they cook so fast and stay incredibly tender when breaded and fried. The shredded cabbage slaw adds a wonderful freshness and crunch, plus cabbage is packed with vitamin C which supports your immune system. The sweet and tangy sauce pulls everything together beautifully, creating these crispy, juicy sandos that feel indulgent but are surprisingly simple to make. Trust me, once you try this, you'll be making them constantly.
Classic lasagne
There's nothing quite like homemade lasagne to bring everyone to the table, and this classic version is honestly easier than you'd think. I've been making this for years, and it's become my go to dinner when I want something impressive but don't need to spend all day cooking. The lean beef mince is packed with protein and iron, which is brilliant if you're looking to keep things nutritious without sacrificing flavor. What I love most is that it comes together in just over an hour and a half, and most of that time is just the oven doing the work while you relax. Once you nail this recipe, you'll be making it on repeat.
Cheat's ramen noodle soup
When I'm craving authentic ramen but don't have hours to simmer bone broth, this is my go to shortcut. Using quality chicken stock as your base means you can have a deeply flavoured, restaurant worthy bowl on the table in just 40 minutes without any fuss. The ginger is packed with anti inflammatory properties and really lifts the whole broth, while the five spice and Worcestershire sauce add layers of umami complexity that taste like you've been cooking all day. It's honestly one of the easiest ways to impress yourself with dinner, and because you're mostly just heating and combining ingredients, there's minimal cleanup involved too.
Hearty pasta soup
This is my go to recipe when I want something comforting but don't have much time. It comes together in just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The beauty of this soup is how simple it is to throw together, plus it's incredibly budget friendly since it relies on pantry staples and frozen vegetables. Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that's great for your heart health. The creamy tortellini makes it feel indulgent while the fresh basil adds a bright finishing touch that takes it from ordinary to something special.
Chunky vegetable soup
This chunky vegetable soup is one of my go to meals when I want something wholesome and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 30 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, you'll have a warming bowlful ready before dinner time. I love how packed it is with vegetables like asparagus and broad beans, which are brilliant sources of fiber and keep you feeling full. The best part? It's incredibly affordable to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Every spoonful is hearty and delicious, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Pasta e fagioli
This is my go to comfort food when I want something hearty and deeply satisfying without breaking the bank. Pasta e fagioli is the kind of rustic Italian dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and the best part is how economical it is to make. Dried beans are incredibly affordable and packed with fiber and plant based protein, so you're getting serious nutrition for very little money. The long, slow cooking time means you can mostly leave it to simmer away while you get on with other things, and the result is a thick, creamy soup where the beans break down into the broth and create their own wonderful sauce. It's pure comfort on a budget.
Giant Yorkshire pudding Sunday lunch
There's something truly special about a proper Sunday lunch, and this giant Yorkshire pudding takes it to the next level. What I love most is how simple it actually is to pull together in just over an hour, even though it looks impressively restaurant worthy. The Yorkshire pudding puffs up into this glorious golden creation that becomes the star of the plate, while underneath you've got a beautiful seared steak and all the trimmings. Broccoli is packed with vitamin C and fibre, so you're getting real nutrition alongside the indulgence. Best of all, this meal won't break the bank, making it perfect for feeding people you love without the fuss.
Meal prep: pasta
Here's my go to pasta recipe when I want to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. I've loaded it with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and wholemeal pasta, which is packed with fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. The beauty of this one is that it comes together in just 50 minutes from start to table, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something nourishing fast. Plus, the ingredients are simple staples you probably already have on hand, so it won't break the bank either.
The breakfast club
My go to weekend breakfast is this absolute belter called The Breakfast Club. It's a proper fry up that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank, and honestly, it's dead simple to throw together. The beauty of this one is that you can have everything on the table in under an hour, which means more time enjoying your breakfast rather than slaving over the stove. Mushrooms are the real hero here because they're packed with B vitamins that give you sustained energy throughout the day. Trust me, once you master this recipe, you'll be making it every Saturday morning.
Leek & kale hash with sage fried eggs
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight dinners that feels way more impressive than the effort it takes. Crispy potatoes get tossed with earthy kale and sweet leeks, then topped with eggs fried in sage butter that makes your whole kitchen smell amazing. Kale is packed with nutrients and vitamins that keep you feeling great, and honestly, the whole thing comes together in under an hour. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly and uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Perfect when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending ages in the kitchen.
Cheese omelette
My go to recipe when I'm short on time is this simple cheese omelette. It's ready in just ten minutes flat, making it perfect for busy mornings or quick lunches. Eggs are packed with protein and choline, which supports brain health, so you're getting real nutrition in something incredibly easy. A handful of sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the fluffy eggs, and honestly, with just a few pantry staples, this costs almost nothing to make. It's foolproof too, even if you're new to omelette cooking.
Smashed peas on toast
This is one of my go to breakfasts when I'm short on time but want something that actually feels nourishing. Fresh peas are packed with protein and fibre, which keep you satisfied all morning long. The whole thing comes together in just 15 minutes, and honestly, you probably have most of these ingredients already in your kitchen. I love how the bright mint and lemon make such a simple dish feel special, while a sprinkle of chilli adds just enough heat to wake up your taste buds. Toast it, top it, maybe add an egg if you're feeling fancy, and you've got yourself a proper breakfast.
Kimchi double-cheese toasties
You absolutely have to try these kimchi double cheese toasties because they're honestly one of my favorite quick lunches. The beauty of this recipe is that it comes together in just twenty minutes total, making it perfect for those days when you want something delicious but don't have much time. I love how the spicy, funky kimchi cuts through the richness of the melted cheddar and emmental, and that ginger in the kimchi is fantastic for digestion. Plus, you probably have most of these ingredients on hand already, which means minimal shopping and maximum flavor. Trust me, these toasties are about to become a regular in your rotation.
Spicy chicken & avocado wraps
These spicy chicken and avocado wraps are my go to when I need something delicious on the table fast. The whole thing comes together in just thirteen minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you don't want to spend ages cooking. What I love most is that avocado is packed with healthy fats that keep you feeling satisfied, so these wraps are genuinely nourishing, not just tasty. The ingredients are simple and affordable too, nothing fancy or hard to find. One chicken breast goes a long way, and that squeeze of lime with the chilli powder creates real flavor without any complicated techniques. Trust me, once you make these once, they'll become a regular in your rotation.
Mortadella, burrata & pistachio pesto ciabatta
This is one of my favorite quick lunches when I want something that feels fancy but comes together in under an hour. Mortadella and burrata are a match made in heaven, and the homemade pistachio pesto takes it to another level. I love that pistachios are packed with heart healthy fats and protein, so you're getting real nutrition alongside the indulgence. The best part? You need just a ciabatta loaf and a handful of ingredients from your deli counter and pantry. No complicated cooking required, just assembly and a quick toast. It's the kind of sandwich that makes you feel like you've put in effort when really you've barely lifted a finger.
Smoked salmon, quinoa & dill lunch pot
This is my go to lunch when I want something that feels fancy but comes together in just fifteen minutes. The beauty of using ready to eat quinoa is that there's virtually no cooking involved, which means you can have a nutritious, satisfying meal on the table faster than you'd think. Quinoa is packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids, making it perfect for keeping you full through the afternoon. The smoked salmon adds a lovely richness while the fresh dill, cucumber and radishes keep everything bright and crisp. It's one of those dishes that looks impressive but honestly couldn't be simpler to put together.
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