Years before becoming a lunch guy
The other day, I stumbled upon a headline that was so intriguing I instantly shared a screenshot with five folks: “King Charles ‘Shrieked’ When He Encountered Saran Wrap for the First Time”…
“It’s cling film, darling,” Camilla reportedly clarified to her 75-year-old spouse. This tidbit has been circulating due to a new disclosure about the king: he has started partaking in lunch “for the first time,” as per tabloids. And, while I’ve needed three to five meals each day throughout my life, I’m intrigued by what he eats since lunch always baffles me.
A few weeks back, I delivered some meals for a friend who had just welcomed a baby, including lunch for the following day. I picked up a sourdough loaf from a local vendor, roasted some cauliflower, and packed goat cheese so she could create a lovely little sandwich. “Is this your usual lunch fare?!” she messaged me the next day. “I wish,” I responded. “Currently, I’m having a bowl of cereal.”
Breakfast offers a wonderful moment to pause before diving into work, and the duty of preparing dinner serves as a good reason to wrap things up, but lunch often arrives during the most hectic times. I work from home, and I find myself standing in front of the fridge or kitchen cabinets, looking around as if it’s my first time figuring out how to whip up anything for myself. By the way, King Charles has half an avocado for lunch. I resonate with the unnamed Palace insider who referred to it as “more of a snack, really.”
If I’m not extremely hungry, I usually opt for a smoothie. Typically, it consists of one scoop of protein powder, peanut butter, a frozen banana, frozen blueberries, a dash of ginger and cinnamon, plus water to ensure the resulting purple mixture is more liquid-like. Occasionally, I whip up scrambled eggs and toast, although I find it more gratifying to have breakfast at dinner rather than at lunch. A snack plate with whatever pickles or olives are lying around in the fridge, alongside cheese, crackers, an apple, and pistachios makes for a pleasant low-effort lunch. I used to consume more sandwiches, but I’m attempting to minimize my meat intake at home. Beyond the classic grilled cheese, I generally view vegetarian sandwiches as needing extensive prep like roasting, which doesn’t align with my schedule for lunch. (Am I mistaken?)
So, I’m in need of some assistance: What do folks eat for lunch nowadays? Do you stick to the same thing daily? I’d love to hear about your effortless midday meals, your go-to sandwich (extra praise if it’s vegetarian), or your detailed Sunday meal prep that pre-empts the weekday lunch dilemma.
P.S. Discover what 15 culinary innovators have for lunch, and we ventured to a bodega with Smitten Kitchen.
(Photo of Prince Charles — before his lunch guy days — by Peter Dunne/Daily Express/Getty Images.)
**Lunchtime Conundrum: Simple and Tasty Meal Suggestions**
Lunchtime can often pose a dilemma. Whether you’re working remotely, preparing a meal for the office, or simply trying to quickly assemble something between tasks, the query of “What should I eat?” can become unexpectedly stressful. You desire something quick to make, nutritious, and undeniably tasty. However, during busy moments, it’s easy to fall into a monotonous cycle of dull meals. Worry not! We’ve compiled some easy yet fulfilling meal ideas that will transform your midday break into something to relish.
### 1. **The Classic Grain Bowl**
Grain bowls are a lifesaver at lunchtime. They’re adaptable, quick to create, and can be tailored to match your preferences. Start with a foundation of brown rice, quinoa, or farro, and layer on your preferred toppings. Roasted veggies, leafy greens, avocado, and a protein source like grilled chicken, tofu, or a soft-boiled egg create a well-balanced meal. Drizzle it with a zesty dressing—think tahini, lemon vinaigrette, or a straightforward olive oil and balsamic mix—and you have a delicious bowl ready in minutes.
**Pro Tip:** Prepare a batch of grains at the start of the week and keep them in the fridge. This way, you can swiftly assemble a grain bowl whenever needed.
### 2. **Mason Jar Salads**
For those seeking a meal that’s convenient and easily prepped in advance, mason jar salads are perfect. The secret to keeping these salads fresh lies in the layering method. Begin with the dressing at the base (to prevent soggy greens), followed by sturdy ingredients like beans, grains, or proteins, and finish with delicate greens on top. When it’s time to eat, just shake the jar and enjoy!
**Recipe Idea:** Consider a Mediterranean-inspired mason jar salad featuring chickpeas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and a lemon-oregano dressing.
### 3. **Avocado Toast with a Twist**
Avocado toast is a lunch favorite, but it can be more exciting. Enhance your avocado toast with unique toppings. Try smashed avocado paired with a poached egg, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy twist. Alternatively, embrace a Mediterranean flair with hummus, sliced cucumbers, and a dash of za’atar seasoning.
**Pro Tip:** Opt for whole-grain or sourdough bread to boost fiber and flavor.
### 4. **Wrap It Up: Simple Wraps and Burritos**
Wraps are an excellent choice for packing a variety of flavors and textures into one convenient meal. Whether you prefer a tortilla, pita, or lettuce wrap, the combinations are limitless. Fill your wrap with lean proteins like turkey, grilled chicken, or falafel, and include fresh veggies, hummus, or tzatziki for an explosion of flavors.
**Recipe Idea:** Consider a southwest-inspired wrap containing black beans, corn, avocado, shredded lettuce, salsa, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
### 5. **Soup and Sandwich Pairing**
There’s an undeniable comfort in a hot bowl of soup paired with a sandwich. The advantage of this combo is that you can prepare a large batch of soup at the week’s start and enjoy it over several days. Combine it with a straightforward sandwich—think grilled cheese, turkey and avocado, or a veggie-loaded panini.
**Pro Tip:** Choose soups that are hearty and nutrient-rich, like lentil soup, minestrone, or butternut squash bisque.
### 6. **DIY Sushi Rolls**
Feeling adventurous? Why not try crafting your own sushi rolls? You don’t need to be a sushi master to succeed—just grab some nori sheets, cooked sushi rice, and your favorite fillings. Good options include cucumber, avocado, smoked salmon, and crab sticks. Roll them up, slice, and serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger.
**Pro Tip:** If rolling sushi seems daunting, consider making a deconstructed sushi bowl instead. Stack the ingredients in a bowl and indulge!
### 7. **Egg Muffins**
Egg muffins are a protein-rich choice that can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week. Simply whisk eggs with your favorite vegetables, cheese, and spices, pour the mixture into a muffin tin, and bake. These mini frittatas are ideal for a quick on-the-go lunch.
**Recipe Idea:** Try a blend of spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
### 8. **Pasta Salad**
Pasta salad is an excellent make-ahead option that can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Choose whole-grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber.
