Quick Vegan Lunch Ideas for Busy Days and On-the-Go Meals

By
Irving Hansen
Updated
A colorful vegan wrap filled with roasted vegetables and greens alongside carrot sticks and a piece of fruit on a wooden table.

Wrap It Up: Easy Vegan Wraps for Quick Lunches

Wraps are a fantastic go-to for busy days. They are versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from hummus to roasted veggies. Simply spread your favorite spread on a tortilla, add fresh greens, and roll it up for a nutritious meal.

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.

Hippocrates

For example, a hummus and cucumber wrap can be refreshing and satisfying. Pair it with some carrot sticks or a piece of fruit for a well-rounded lunch. The best part? You can make them in advance and grab them on your way out.

Related Resource
Easy Vegan Recipes to Simplify Your Weekly Meal Prep
Elevate your meal prep with easy vegan recipes that save time and add variety to your weekly lunches and dinners.

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like avocado, black beans, or even leftover quinoa. This way, you can keep your lunches exciting and tailor them to your taste!

Salad Jars: Prep Ahead for On-the-Go Nutrients

Salad jars are a clever way to enjoy salads without the sogginess that often comes with packing them. Layer your ingredients in a mason jar, starting with the dressing at the bottom, followed by sturdy veggies, grains, and leafy greens on top.

A layered salad jar with cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and spinach against a white background.

When it’s time to eat, just shake it up and enjoy! This method keeps your salad fresh and crunchy, making it perfect for lunch. Try combinations like chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and spinach for a filling option.

Versatile Vegan Lunch Wraps

Wraps are an easy, customizable option for quick lunches, allowing you to mix and match ingredients.

Plus, you can prepare several jars at once, saving time during your busy week. Just grab one from the fridge, and you’re ready to go!

Chickpea Salad: Protein-Packed and Flavorful

Chickpea salad is a protein powerhouse that’s super easy to throw together. Just mash some canned chickpeas, add diced celery, onion, and your favorite vegan mayo for a creamy delight. This salad is not only filling but also packed with nutrients.

Eating plants is not only good for your health, but also for the health of the planet.

Unknown

You can enjoy it on its own or spread it on whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich. Add some leafy greens or sprouts for extra crunch and nutrition. It’s a delightful dish that can be made in minutes.

Related Resource
Creative Plant-Based Protein Recipes for Everyone to Enjoy
Looking to boost your meals? Explore tasty plant-based protein recipes that pair perfectly with your vegan lunches for added flavor.

What’s more, chickpea salad stores well in the fridge, so you can make a big batch for the week. Just portion it out for a quick lunch whenever you need it!

Smoothie Bowls: A Quick and Delicious Meal Option

Smoothie bowls are a delightful way to enjoy a quick meal while getting a dose of fruits and veggies. Simply blend your favorite fruits with some spinach or kale, pour it into a bowl, and top with granola, nuts, or seeds.

This vibrant meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing—a perfect Instagram moment! You can customize your bowl with seasonal fruits or whatever you have at home, making it a versatile option.

Salad Jars for Freshness

Salad jars are a clever way to enjoy fresh salads on-the-go without the sogginess, thanks to their layering method.

Smoothie bowls can be prepped ahead of time by freezing ingredients in bags. Just blend in the morning, and you’ll have a refreshing meal ready in minutes!

Vegan Sushi: Roll Your Way to a Quick Lunch

Making vegan sushi at home might sound daunting, but it’s surprisingly easy and fun! Use sushi rice, nori sheets, and a variety of fillings like avocado, cucumber, and carrots. Roll them up, slice, and you have a stunning meal ready.

These bite-sized delights are perfect for on-the-go lunches. Pair them with soy sauce or a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick. Plus, you can make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Related Resource
Versatile Vegan Salads: Refreshing Side Dishes for Every Season
Looking to elevate your lunch? Explore vibrant vegan salads that pair perfectly with your busy meals for added nutrition and flavor.

Sushi also allows for creativity—feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your cravings. It's a fun way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet!

Quinoa Bowls: A Hearty and Satisfying Meal

Quinoa bowls are an excellent option for a filling lunch packed with protein. Start with cooked quinoa as your base and pile on your favorite veggies, beans, and a zesty dressing. This meal is not only nutritious but also incredibly customizable.

For instance, a bowl with black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and avocado can transport you to a sunny beach. You can prepare your quinoa in advance and mix-and-match toppings for variety throughout the week.

Protein-Packed Chickpea Salad

Chickpea salad is a nutritious and easy dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a hearty sandwich filling.

These bowls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to create several combinations in one go. Just store them in the fridge, and you’ll have delicious lunches ready at your fingertips!

Pasta Salad: Quick, Easy, and Always Satisfying

Pasta salad is a classic that can be made vegan and packed with flavor. Cook your favorite pasta, and toss it with veggies, olives, and a simple vinaigrette for a quick meal. This dish is perfect for using up leftover vegetables and can be served cold or warm.

Imagine a colorful mix of cherry tomatoes, spinach, and artichokes in a light lemon dressing—it’s both refreshing and filling! Pasta salad is also a great dish to make ahead of time, as the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge.

A quinoa bowl filled with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and avocado, with fresh herbs around it.

Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy. It’s a versatile dish that never goes out of style!

References

  1. Smoothie Bowls: The New Breakfast TrendMichael Green, Foodie Magazine, August 1, 2023