Finding cheap lunch ideas for work that are easy to prepare and don’t break the bank can be a challenge. Whether you’re working from home or commuting to the office, these affordable, quick, and nutritious meals will keep you fueled throughout the day without spending too much. These recipes use common ingredients that are easy to store, prep, and take to work.

Why Choose Homemade Lunch for Work?

• Save money: Buying lunch every day can add up quickly. Prepping meals at home is a cost-effective solution.
• Healthier options: Homemade lunches allow you to control the ingredients, making it easier to maintain a balanced diet.
• Convenience: Packing your lunch in advance saves time during busy workdays.

1. Mason Jar Salads

A mason jar salad is perfect for an office lunch because it stays fresh, looks appealing, and is easy to prepare.

Ingredients (per jar):

• 1/2 cup quinoa ($0.50)
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced ($0.20)
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes ($0.50)
• 1/4 cup chickpeas ($0.40)
• Olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dressing ($0.10)

Total cost per jar: Approximately $1.70

Instructions:

1. Layer the ingredients in a mason jar, starting with the quinoa and ending with the salad greens (optional).
2. Add the dressing just before eating to keep everything crisp.

2. Tuna and Crackers

For a quick and light lunch, tuna and crackers are both affordable and easy to pack for work.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of tuna ($1.00)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise ($0.20)
• 8-10 whole-grain crackers ($0.50)
• A handful of baby carrots ($0.30)

Total cost per meal: Approximately $2.00

Instructions:

1. Mix the tuna with mayonnaise and pack it in a small container.
2. Pair it with crackers and baby carrots for a simple, protein-packed lunch.

3. Turkey and Hummus Wrap

A turkey and hummus wrap is a nutritious, quick-to-make lunch option that you can assemble the night before.

Ingredients:

• 1 tortilla ($0.75)
• 2 slices of turkey deli meat ($0.75)
• 2 tablespoons hummus ($0.30)
• 1/4 cup spinach ($0.20)

Total cost per wrap: Approximately $2.00

Instructions:

1. Spread hummus on the tortilla, then add turkey slices and spinach.
2. Roll up the wrap and pack it for an easy, ready-to-eat lunch.

4. Rice and Bean Bowl

A rice and bean bowl is filling, cheap, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal lunch for a long workday.

Ingredients (per serving):

• 1/2 cup cooked rice ($0.25)
• 1/2 cup black beans ($0.40)
• 1/4 cup salsa ($0.30)
• 1 tablespoon shredded cheese (optional) ($0.25)

Total cost per meal: Approximately $1.20

Instructions:

1. Heat the rice and beans, and top with salsa and shredded cheese.
2. Pack in a microwave-safe container for a hearty lunch at work.

5. Egg Salad Sandwich

An egg salad sandwich is a simple, budget-friendly lunch that’s easy to make and pack for work.

Ingredients:

• 2 hard-boiled eggs ($0.60)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise ($0.20)
• 2 slices of whole-grain bread ($0.50)

Total cost per sandwich: Approximately $1.30

Instructions:

1. Mash the hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise.
2. Spread the egg salad between two slices of bread, and pack for a quick, protein-rich lunch.

Bonus Tips for Packing Cheap Lunches for Work

• Prep in bulk: Make meals that can be prepared in large quantities, like rice bowls or pasta salads, and pack them for multiple days.
• Use leftovers: Incorporate leftovers from dinner into your lunch. This saves time and reduces waste.
• Invest in reusable containers: Keep your lunch fresh with airtight, leak-proof containers that are easy to transport and reheat at work.

Conclusion

These cheap lunch ideas for work are budget-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for busy workdays. From mason jar salads to turkey wraps, these meals are sure to save you time and money while keeping you fueled and satisfied throughout the day.