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Home » Lunch

29 Easy Lunches That Are Faster Than Waiting in a Drive-Thru

Published: Oct 14, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Easy lunches are a game-changer, especially when you want something quick and perfect for fall. With the season's flavors in mind, these recipes bring warmth and comfort to your table without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal to enjoy at home or something you can whip up between errands, these tasty options will hit the spot. Say goodbye to long waits in drive-thrus and hello to meals that are as convenient as they are delicious.

A close-up image of gochujang cauliflower tacos on a plate, accompanied by a small bowl of lime slices and sliced red onions.
Vegan Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Close up of cacio e pepe in white bowl with fork and spoon.
Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Bucatini cacio e pepe is a classic Italian dish that uses just three ingredients and can be prepared in no time. This straightforward recipe is a great choice for those busy days when you crave comfort food without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Spicy Alfredo Pasta

An overhead iimage of two spicy alfredo pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy Alfredo sauce, with its creamy red pepper base, is ready in just 30 minutes. This easy and flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, making it a go-to choice for quick and satisfying fall lunches.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta

Easy Cranberry Salad with Pecans

An image of cranberry salad with pecans served in a white salad bowl with a fork on the side.
Easy Cranberry Salad with Pecans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cranberry pecan salad features tangy goat cheese and sweet cranberries, and it’s ready in just 10 minutes. Packed with protein, this quick and nutritious dish is perfect for a healthy fall meal that won’t take up your time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cranberry Salad with Pecans

Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

A close-up image of gochujang cauliflower tacos on a plate, accompanied by a small bowl of lime slices and sliced red onions.
Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Korean spiced cauliflower tacos are not only crispy but also versatile, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. These customizable tacos allow you to mix and match toppings, ensuring a quick and enjoyable lunch on busy fall days.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli pesto pasta with toasted lemon zest and cherry tomatoes takes only 30 minutes to make. This simple yet vibrant dish is a fantastic option for those seeking a flavorful and quick meal during hectic fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Horizontal image of fried rice in a white bowl with brown chopsticks on the side.
Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fried rice, made in just 15 minutes with leftover rice, is a versatile and easy meal solution. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and allows you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Leek and Mushroom Pasta

An overhead image of cooked leek mushroom pasta in a pan.
Leek and Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Light and creamy leek and mushroom pasta can be prepared in one pot in just 40 minutes. This recipe combines fresh herbs and cheese for a meal that is both simple and bursting with flavor, perfect for busy fall nights.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

A top-down view of stir-fried green beans with coconut on a white plate, accompanied by a white napkin and fork.
Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Green beans stir-fried with coconut and Indian spices come together in just 30 minutes. This South Indian dish adds a burst of flavor to your lunch and is a healthy option that complements your fall meals effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

A straight view of cooked jeera rice in a white plate.
Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Jeera rice, or cumin-infused basmati rice, is a staple in Indian cooking and doesn’t require a pressure cooker. Fluffy and easy to prepare, it serves as a versatile side that pairs beautifully with various fall dishes.
Get the Recipe: Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

Kale Harvest Salad

An overhead image of kale salad in a large serving bowl.
Kale Harvest Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This fall kale salad with carrots and dates can be prepared in just 15 minutes. It's a quick and nutritious choice that works well as a light main course or a side dish, fitting seamlessly into your autumn meal plans.
Get the Recipe: Kale Harvest Salad

Kale Salad With Cranberries

A horizontal image of kale salad with cranberries.
Kale Salad With Cranberries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kale salad with cranberries, lemon, and nuts is ready in just 5 minutes. This quick and refreshing side dish enhances any fall meal while being efficient and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries

Spinach Avocado Salad

An overhead image of spinach avocado salad in a wooden bowl with lemon in the background.
Spinach Avocado Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spinach and avocado summer salad features cherry tomatoes and radishes finished with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This light and refreshing option is perfect for quick cookouts or as a fresh side during the early fall.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Avocado Salad

Panko Crusted Rockfish

panko crusted rockfish on a plate with spinach.
Panko Crusted Rockfish. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Panko-crusted rockfish provides a light yet satisfying seafood dinner with its crispy coating. In about 25 minutes, you can enjoy this easy recipe that’s perfect for comforting fall evenings without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Rockfish

Italian Chicken Cutlets

Breaded italian chicken cutlets on a black plate with sliced lemon.
Italian Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Italian chicken cutlets are quick to prepare and versatile, offering a crispy and savory option for lunch. This easy recipe ensures that you can enjoy a flavorful and uncomplicated meal during busy fall days.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Cutlets

Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic

Roasted brussels sprouts with pomegranate and goat cheese.
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Air fryer Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, drizzled with balsamic, feta, and pomegranate. This quick side dish adds flavor to your fall meals and is easy to whip up any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic butter chicken bites, cooked on the stovetop in just 20 minutes, yield tender chicken pieces in a savory sauce. This quick recipe is perfect for a fast fall dinner when you're short on time but still want great flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeye's Copycat)

Blackened chicken tenders in a white dish.
Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeye's Copycat). Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Blackened chicken tenders are juicy and savory, inspired by the popular recipe from Popeye's. They offer a healthier and more affordable option for a flavorful addition to your fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeye's Copycat)

Curry Chicken with Onion

Curry Chicken with Onion inside golden pan.
Curry Chicken with Onion. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Juicy chicken combined with caramelized onions in a spicy curry sauce creates a comforting fall dish. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at your fall dinner parties.
Get the Recipe: Curry Chicken with Onion

Sauteed Rainbow Chard

Side view of white bean salad in bowl with tongs.
Sauteed Rainbow Chard. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Sauteed rainbow chard, made with just three ingredients, is a simple and healthy side dish. This quick recipe is great for those looking for an easy way to enhance their meals during the fall season.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Rainbow Chard

Creamy Broccoli With Sun-Dried Tomatoes

A pan of creamy broccoli with sun-dried tomatoes with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Broccoli With Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy broccoli with sun-dried tomatoes is a stovetop side dish that takes only 25 minutes to prepare. It adds nutrition to your meals while being easy to make, making it a perfect option for busy fall nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli With Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Pasta Aglio Olio e Peperoncino

pasta aglio olio e peperoncino is mixed with a black pasta fork.
Pasta Aglio Olio e Peperoncino. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Aglio Olio e Peperoncino features pasta paired with golden garlic, rich olive oil, fresh basil, and spicy Calabrian chili peppers. This straightforward dish is perfect for a quick dinner that packs a punch of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Aglio Olio e Peperoncino

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach, made in one pan and ready in 30 minutes, combine shrimp, tomatoes, spinach, and coconut milk. This meal is both simple and impressive, making it a great choice for autumn dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuna Pesto Pasta

A plate of tuna pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, a copper fork, and a pink linen next to a pan full of tuna pesto pasta.
Tuna Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Tuna pesto pasta with burst cherry tomatoes, spinach, and garlic is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This easy-to-make dish combines fantastic flavors, making it ideal for busy fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Pesto Pasta

Coconut Cauliflower Rice

Coconut Cauliflower Rice inside golden plate with lime slices.
Coconut Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Coconut cauliflower rice is a flavorful and healthy side dish that can be prepared quickly. This nutritious option pairs well with various fall meals, adding a satisfying element without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cauliflower Rice

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shake and bake pork chops are a simple way to achieve crispy and flavorful pork without frying. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe ensures you can enjoy a fast and satisfying fall dinner any night.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Spicy Tofu Tacos

Side view of tacos on a plate, one with bite taken out.
Spicy Tofu Tacos. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Spicy tofu tacos provide a meat-free alternative with bold spices and a satisfying texture. They’re perfect for Taco Tuesday or whenever you want a quick and fulfilling plant-based meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tofu Tacos

Tomato Burrata Salad

An assembled tomato burrata salad with sliced basil and burrata on a cutting board and a bowl of chopped heirloom tomatoes.
Tomato Burrata Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Tomato burrata salad enhances the classic caprese with heirloom tomatoes, fresh burrata cheese, and tangy balsamic reduction. This refreshing option is perfect for summer and transitions beautifully into early fall.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Burrata Salad

Air Fryer Pizza

A pizza is being cooked in an air fryer.
Air Fryer Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air fryer pizza offers a quick and easy way to enjoy pizza with a crispy crust and melted cheese. It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when you want something fun and satisfying to eat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza

Indian-Style Okra Curry

A black bowl filled with vegetables on a table.
Indian-Style Okra Curry. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Bhindi masala gravy (okra curry) is an easy stir-fry of fresh okra with onions and tomatoes. This mild dish creates a warm and comforting option for a hearty fall meal without requiring a lot of time.
Get the Recipe: Indian-Style Okra Curry

More Lunches

A bowl of Sheet Pan Bibimbap with a pair of chopsticks.
Sheet Pan Bibimbap. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tired of sandwiches? Try these 40 quick and easy lunches that are packed with flavor and perfect for busy days when you want something fresh!
Read it Here: 40 Lunches That Will Save You From Another Boring Sandwich

More Quick Fall Dinners

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Check out 32 quick fall dinners you can make in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but flavor is a must!
Read it Here: 32 Quick Fall Dinners You Can Make in Under 20 Minutes

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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