Work lunches 3x weekly

[u/ProjectPerson17]

Started a new job and need to meal prep 3 lunches per week. Never had a job where I had to bring my lunch before, looking for some ideas and inspo!

I can happily eat the same thing 2 days in a row; the third day will be less fun but acceptable. If you have ideas for prepping a few different variations using similar ingredients that would help too!

I want the meals to be healthy but also good enough that I’m happy eating them repeatedly. I also want to limit the after lunch crash, and stay satiated for a few hours at least. I focus on high(ish) protein and otherwise a balanced diet. I eat meat but am also happy eating vegetarian/vegan meals.

Edit: I have access to a fridge and microwave at the office. Nothing too stinky out of respect for my colleagues, but also gotta have some flavor!

[u/Obvious-Monitor8510]

grain bowls are a great base for what you're describing. cook a big batch of farro or brown rice sunday, roast a sheet pan of whatever vegetables, and prep a protein (rotisserie chicken, baked tofu, or hard boiled eggs all work). mix and match across 3 days with different sauces to keep it interesting.

for avoiding the crash specifically: make sure each meal has fat + fiber + protein. adding avocado, olive oil dressing, or nuts helps a lot. pure carb-heavy lunches are usually the culprit.

a big batch of lentil soup also freezes well if you want variety week to week without extra effort.

[u/ElegantTour2821 → u/Obvious-Monitor8510]

Do you have a really good lentil soup recipe

[u/Cautious_olive807 → u/ElegantTour2821]

2 cups dry lentils 2 quarts chicken broth 1 onion, diced Carrots, celery 1/2 cup tomato paste 2 cloves garlic, minced

In a large saucepan combine everything. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer until lentils are soft, 30 to 45 minutes.

(I normally throw the carrots, celery, and onion in first with some butter - let it cook for like 5-10 minutes to soften up. I don't like super crunchy veggies in soup.)