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21 Healthy Work Lunchbox Ideas for Adults | Easy Meal Prep Recipes

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Need a fresh lunch? Try this cool, zesty Quinoa, Tomato, and Chickpea bowl. Just simmer the quinoa, cool it, and combine! Easy steps for maximum flavor payoff. Complete with nutritional facts.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dry Quinoa
  • 2 cups Water or vegetable broth
  • 1 (15-ounce) can Chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium English cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup Crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cook the quinoa by combining 1 cup of dry quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth in a small pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool completely.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the dressing while the quinoa cools. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a dash of black pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, rinsed chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced cucumber. Gently toss the mixture together.
  4. Step 4: Divide the quinoa and vegetable mixture evenly into four individual meal prep containers. This ensures consistent portion control for each workday lunch.
  5. Step 5: Top each container with 2 tablespoons of crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the top just before sealing, or store the dressing separately in small containers to be added right before eating to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Refrigerate immediately for up to 4 days.

Notes

  • For the freshest taste and best texture, keep the lemon-olive oil dressing in a small separate container and pour it over the salad right before eating.
  • Since this is a cold, refreshing dish, ensure your lunchbox container is airtight and keep it properly chilled; the crispness of the cucumber and tomato is best enjoyed straight from the refrigerator.
  • For a more filling meal, pair this bright, hearty salad with a smear of hummus or a small portion of grilled salmon or chicken breast.
  • To maximize the flavor of your base, cook the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water, and ensure you season the broth generously with salt before simmering.

Nutrition