7 Cheap, Easy, and Healthy Lunch Recipes for Work

By MaiPeralta | Mar 26, 2015 | 12:46 PM EDT

Most people buy pre-made lunches at work because it is convenient but when you think about it, the cost eventually adds up to quite a sum in a month. Making your own healthy lunch to bring to work helps you save money and your waistline.

Here are seven cheap brown-bag lunch ideas you can take to work:

1.) Broccoli, Ham, and Pasta Salad

Yields: 5 servings, 2 cups each

Calories: 306 calories

Total Prep Time: 50 minutes

Craving for pasta at lunch? This is a recipe you can make ahead of time or simply the night before you go to work. According to Eating Well, this dish is perfect if you have leftover ham at home.

2.) Roast Beef and Horseradish Wrap

Yields: 1 serving

Calories: 230 calories

Total Prep Time: 5 minutes

Want a fuss-free lunch? This tasty recipe from Women's Health does not require the use of any spoon or fork. This wrap recipe incorporates fresh raspberries, beef, and horseradish.

3.) Roasted Corn, Black Bean, and Mango Salad

Yields: 1 serving

Calories: 204

If you are craving for Mexican food, consider this recipe from My Recipes as a healthier alternative. This low-calorie dish contains lots of protein and fiber perfect for a filling midday meal.

4.) Pesto Turkey Club

Yields: 1 serving

Calories: 390 calories

Total Prep Time: 10 minutes

Not all sandwiches are created equal and this recipe from Health.com is guaranteed to make for a healthy and decadent lunch (thanks to pesto and turkey bacon) for fewer calories than store-bought lunch food. For dessert, get yourself an apple to complete the meal.

5.) BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Yields: 1 serving

Calories: 324 calories

Total Prep Time: 10 minutes

Again, another recipe that makes use of cooked leftovers. This recipe is from Eating Well and makes a quick, easy, and healthy meal you can easily make in the mornings. You can never go wrong with chicken and sandwich.

6.) Curry Chicken Wraps with Nectarine Chutney

Yields: 5 servings, 2 cups each

Calories: 283 calories

Total Prep Time: 2 hours, 20 minutes

Add a little bit of spice and variety with this dish from My Recipes. This recipe is basically a grilled chicken wrap with an exotic kick. If nectarines are hard to come by in your area, you can substitute it with peaches. It may take a bit of time to prepare, but every bite will be worth it.

7.) Tuna Salad with Celery and Radishes

Yields: 2 servings

Calories: 399 calories

Total Prep Time: 10 minutes

This is a revamped classic tuna salad recipe from Real Simple. All ingredients can easily be found in the kitchen. Make sure to serve with crackers for added texture and flavor.

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