Inexpensive Healthy Lunch Ideas

39 Cheap, Healthy Lunch Ideas for Anyone on a Budget Taste of Home from www.tasteofhome.com

Introduction

When it comes to lunch, it can be challenging to find healthy options that are also affordable. However, with a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without breaking the bank. In this article, we will share some inexpensive healthy lunch ideas that are easy to make and will keep you energized throughout the day.

1. Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to combine.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition:

Calories: 250

Protein: 6g

Fat: 10g

Carbohydrates: 35g

2. Veggie Wrap

Ingredients:

1 whole wheat tortilla
1/4 cup hummus
1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers)
1/4 cup feta cheese

Instructions:

Spread the hummus evenly on the tortilla.
Place the mixed vegetables and feta cheese on top of the hummus.
Roll the tortilla tightly and cut it in half.

Nutrition:

Calories: 300

Protein: 10g

Fat: 12g

Carbohydrates: 40g

3. Chickpea Salad

Ingredients:

1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the chickpea salad and toss to combine.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition:

Calories: 220

Protein: 8g

Fat: 8g

Carbohydrates: 32g

4. Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

1 cup dried lentils
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Rinse the lentils and remove any debris.
In a large pot, sauté the carrot, celery, onion, and garlic until softened.
Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Nutrition:

Calories: 280

Protein: 18g

Fat: 2g

Carbohydrates: 50g

5. Greek Salad

Ingredients:

2 cups mixed greens
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Nutrition:

Calories: 180

Protein: 6g

Fat: 14g

Carbohydrates: 10g

Conclusion

Eating a healthy lunch doesn't have to be expensive. By choosing affordable ingredients and preparing your meals at home, you can enjoy nutritious lunches without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer a quinoa salad, veggie wrap, chickpea salad, lentil soup, or Greek salad, these inexpensive options will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and budget-friendly lunch!