Now that I’m working from home full time, I have to prioritize making lunch because I don’t have a cafeteria to run to for days I don’t make one. I also don’t want to make DoorDash-ing a habit because that gets expensive. So, of course, I turn to my trusty Trader Joe’s for quick, simple lunch ideas. Whether it’s something easy I can pop into the microwave or something I can whip up swiftly on my lunch break, these Trader Joe’s lunch ideas will have you saying goodbye to driving through and grabbing fast food during your lunch hour.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

I made this recently for Brett and me, and he enjoyed it so much that he asked if he could pack some of the leftovers for his lunch. You can add chicken for protein, but I thought it was perfect for a lighter lunch.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 package Trader Joe’s farfalle
• 1 container Trader Joe’s buffalo style chicken dip 
• 1 cup Trader Joe’s celery, diced

DIRECTIONS

1. Cook the farfalle according to the package instructions.
2. After straining, add noodles to a large bowl.
3. Fold buffalo dip into the pasta until the dip becomes a smooth and creamy sauce that evenly coats the noodles.
4. Add the diced celery to the bowl, combine, and serve.

Burrata, Prosciutto & Arugula Flatbread

Prosciutto is one of my favorite things, and this is one of my favorite lunch options. I sometimes even serve this as dinner when I’m not up for cooking. This serves two meals for me, but I don’t find it the same once it’s leftover and reheated.

Carnitas with Salsa Verde Burrito

Trader Joe’s has a variety of burritos, and the carnitas with salsa verde is my fave for lunch. All you need to do is throw it into the microwave for a few minutes. Not only is it quick to serve, but it’s filling, leaving you satisfied for the afternoon.

Chicken Tikka Masala

This is probably my most frequently purchased item; I always throw at least one of these into my cart when grocery shopping. It’s more budget-friendly than ordering takeout and doesn’t compromise on flavor. Pair it with the Trader Joe’s garlic naan for a delicious lunch.

Miso Ginger Soup

This soup is perfect for the days that you want something on the lighter side. I used the chicken gyoza, but you can use any of their frozen dumplings. Add a package of Asian Vegetables with Beijing Style Soy Sauce for a more well-rounded lunch.

DIRECTIONS

1. Optional: Microwave the vegetables according to the package instructions, but don’t use the sauce.
2. Heat the broth on the stove.
3. Add the frozen potstickers to the broth and gently boil for 2-3 minutes or until soft and thoroughly heated.
4. If including, add the microwaved vegetables to the broth.
5. Combine and serve.

Naan Flatbread With Gyro and Tzatziki

A simple lunch to throw together where no cooking is required. You don’t need to make homemade naan; the frozen version lasts longer, allowing multiple servings with only three easy ingredients. Also, the gyro is seasoned and cooked, so you only need to pop it in the microwave.

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and heat garlic naan for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes.
2. Place gyro slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 30 seconds.
3. Top the garlic naan with tzatziki and gyro.

New England Clam Chowder

The soup section is a recent discovery, and I was pleasantly impressed by the selection and flavor. I typically have soup by itself, but it also pairs well with a side salad. I’m eyeing the lobster bisque and the unexpected cheddar broccoli to try next time.

Pork Fried Rice

A pan of savory pork belly fried rice makes for a quick, satisfying meal. If you’re not a fan of pork belly, you can substitute it with a protein of your choice. Feel free to get creative with add-ons, garnishes, or toppings.

DIRECTIONS

1. Make the eggs.
2. Cook the pork belly according to the package instructions. I prefer to slice it first rather than brown the whole piece.
3. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan or wok.
4. Add vegetable fried rice to the pan.
5. Cook on medium, stirring continuously for 5 minutes until thoroughly cooked.
6. Stir in pork belly and eggs.
7. Toss everything in soyaki sauce (a little goes a long way) and serve.

Siracha Shrimp Bowl

If you’re in a time crunch or can’t muster up the energy to throw even something quick together, Trader Joe’s has a freezer filled with simple meals that only require heating in the microwave. I always have a couple readily available for the days I have lunch meetings.

Steamed Pork & Ginger Soup Dumplings

These soup dumplings are perfect for a lighter lunch or work great as a side. They burst in your mouth with soup and serious flavor (thanks to the ginger). I prefer these because xiao long bao is traditionally filled with pork, but there is a chicken version.

What are some of your favorite Trader Joe’s lunch ideas? I’ve also previously shared quick and easy 3-ingredient Trader Joe’s meals for more ideas. xo