11 Plant-Based Back to School Lunch Recipes

plant based lunch ideas

Colorful Hummus and Veggie Wraps

vibrant veggie hummus wraps

Colorful Hummus and Veggie Wraps are a vibrant and nutritious option for a plant-based lunch. These wraps are packed with fresh vegetables and creamy hummus, making them both delicious and satisfying. They are perfect for meal prep or a quick bite on the go!

Ingredient Quantity
Whole wheat tortillas 4 large
Hummus 1 cup
Bell peppers (assorted) 1 cup, sliced
Cucumber 1, thinly sliced
Carrot 1, grated
Spinach or lettuce 2 cups
Avocado 1, sliced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Spread a generous layer of hummus over each tortilla.
  2. Layer the sliced bell peppers, cucumber, grated carrot, spinach, and avocado on top of the hummus.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Roll the tortillas tightly to form wraps, then slice in half and serve immediately. Enjoy!
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Quinoa and Black Bean Salad

protein packed quinoa salad

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is a protein-packed, flavorful dish that makes for an excellent plant-based lunch. This salad is loaded with nutritious ingredients, bringing together the earthy taste of quinoa and black beans, complemented by fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing. It’s not only perfect for meal prep but also light enough for a quick and healthy option on busy days.

Ingredient Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup (uncooked)
Black beans (canned) 1 can (15 oz), rinsed and drained
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Red onion (diced) 1/4 cup
Corn (canned or frozen) 1 cup
Avocado (diced) 1 medium
Fresh cilantro (chopped) 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, and avocado.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad, add chopped cilantro, and toss everything gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to enhance flavors. Enjoy your invigorating salad!
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Pita Pockets With Falafel and Tzatziki

crispy falafel in pita

Pita Pockets with Falafel and Tzatziki are a delightful plant-based lunch option that combines crispy, herb-infused falafel balls stuffed inside warm pita bread, topped with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce and fresh vegetables. This dish offers a satisfying texture and flavor, making it perfect for a quick meal or a gathering with friends.

Ingredient Quantity
Falafel mix 1 box (about 15 oz)
Water 1 cup
Olive oil For frying
Pita bread 4 pieces
Cucumber (diced) 1 medium
Tomato (diced) 1 medium
Red onion (thinly sliced) 1/2 medium
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup
Tzatziki sauce 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Prepare falafel mix according to package instructions, combining it with water and allowing it to rest.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, then form falafel into small balls and fry until golden brown on all sides.
  3. Warm pita bread in a dry skillet or oven.
  4. Once the falafel are cooked, stuff them into pita pockets along with diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, and parsley.
  5. Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the stuffed pita pockets, serve immediately, and enjoy!
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Sweet Potato and Chickpea Buddha Bowl

nutritious plant based bowl

Sweet Potato and Chickpea Buddha Bowl is a vibrant and nutritious plant-based dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner. This bowl combines roasted sweet potatoes with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh greens, and a tangy dressing, resulting in a wholesome meal that is as visually appealing as it is satisfying.

Ingredient Quantity
Sweet potatoes (cubed) 2 medium
Canned chickpeas (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Cooked quinoa or rice 1 cup
Spinach or kale 2 cups
Avocado (sliced) 1 medium
Tahini 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Water 1-2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cubed sweet potatoes and drained chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
  2. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  3. Prepare a bed of cooked quinoa or rice and top with fresh spinach or kale.
  4. Add the roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas on top of the grains.
  5. Slice avocado and place it in the bowl. Drizzle tahini and lemon juice over the top.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato and Chickpea Buddha Bowl!
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Mini Vegetable Sushi Rolls

mini vegetable sushi rolls

Mini Vegetable Sushi Rolls are a fun and healthy way to enjoy an assortment of fresh vegetables wrapped in rice and nori. These bite-sized sushi rolls are perfect for a light lunch or a snack and can easily be customized with your favorite fillings, making them a delicious and versatile plant-based option.

Ingredient Quantity
Sushi rice 1 cup
Nori sheets 4 sheets
Cucumber (julienned) 1 medium
Carrot (julienned) 1 medium
Avocado (sliced) 1 medium
Bell pepper (thinly sliced) 1 medium
Rice vinegar 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce For dipping
Sesame seeds For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the sushi rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions.
  2. Once cooked, fluff the rice and mix in rice vinegar. Allow it to cool slightly.
  3. Place a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat or a clean surface, and spread a thin layer of sushi rice on the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
  4. Arrange a few pieces of cucumber, carrot, avocado, and bell pepper across the rice.
  5. Roll the sushi tightly away from you, using the mat to help, and seal the edge with a little water.
  6. Slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with soy sauce for dipping. Enjoy your invigorating Mini Vegetable Sushi Rolls!
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Spinach and Lentil Fritters

nutritious spinach lentil fritters

Spinach and Lentil Fritters are a nutritious and delicious plant-based option that makes for a perfect lunch or snack. Packed with protein and fiber from lentils and loaded with vitamins from fresh spinach, these fritters are not only easy to prepare but also provide a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Ingredient Quantity
Cooked lentils 1 cup
Fresh spinach (chopped) 2 cups
All-purpose flour ½ cup
Green onion (thinly sliced) 2 stalks
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Cumin powder 1 teaspoon
Baking powder ½ teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Olive oil For frying

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, chopped spinach, green onion, minced garlic, cumin powder, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Gradually add all-purpose flour to the mixture until it holds together but is not too dry.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Shape the mixture into small patties and fry them in the hot oil until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes each side).
  5. Drain the fritters on paper towels and serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice. Enjoy your flavorful Spinach and Lentil Fritters!
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Vegan Pasta Salad With Cherry Tomatoes

vibrant vegan pasta salad

Vegan Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant and rejuvenating dish perfect for a light lunch or a picnic. This salad is not only packed with flavor but is also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables and dressing for a personalized touch. It’s a great way to incorporate whole grains and fresh produce into your meal.

Ingredient Quantity
Pasta (fusilli or penne) 2 cups
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Cucumber (diced) 1 medium
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Red onion (finely chopped) ¼ cup
Fresh basil (chopped) ¼ cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and basil.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious Vegan Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes!
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Apple and Almond Butter Sandwiches

apple almond butter sandwiches

Apple and Almond Butter Sandwiches are a delightful and nutritious option for a quick lunch or snack. These sandwiches combine the natural sweetness of fresh apples with the creaminess of almond butter, all packed between crisp bread. They are not only easy to prepare but also provide a great blend of fiber, healthy fats, and taste, making them a fantastic addition to your plant-based meal repertoire.

Ingredient Quantity
Apples (sliced) 2 medium
Almond butter 4 tablespoons
Whole grain bread 4 slices
Cinnamon (optional) To taste
Honey or maple syrup (optional) 1 tablespoon (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Toast the slices of whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. Spread almond butter evenly on two slices of the toasted bread.
  3. Layer the sliced apples on top of the almond butter.
  4. Sprinkle with cinnamon and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.
  5. Top with the remaining slices of bread, cut in half, and enjoy your fresh Apple and Almond Butter Sandwiches!
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Vegetable Stir-Fry With Brown Rice

vibrant vegetable stir fry recipe

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice is a vibrant and healthy dish that offers a medley of colorful vegetables sautéed to perfection, served over a bed of fluffy brown rice. This quick and easy recipe is not only plant-based but also customizable to include your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand. It’s perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner that’s packed with flavor and essential nutrients.

Ingredient Quantity
Brown rice 1 cup (uncooked)
Broccoli florets 1 cup
Bell pepper (sliced) 1 medium
Carrot (sliced) 1 medium
Snow peas 1 cup
Soy sauce 3 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Fresh ginger (grated) 1 teaspoon
Green onions (chopped) 2
Sesame seeds (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
  2. In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snow peas to the skillet; stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
  5. Pour in soy sauce and toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
  6. Serve the stir-fried vegetables over the cooked brown rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your delicious Vegetable Stir-Fry!
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Overnight Oats With Fresh Fruits

overnight oats with fruits

Overnight Oats with Fresh Fruits is a quick, nutritious, and versatile breakfast option that prepares you for a healthy day. This no-cook dish allows you to combine rolled oats with your choice of plant-based milk, yogurt, and a variety of fresh fruits. Simply prepare it the night before, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you in the morning.

Ingredient Quantity
Rolled oats 1 cup
Almond milk (or any plant milk) 1 cup
Chia seeds (optional) 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup (optional) 1 tablespoon
Fresh fruits (berries, banana, etc.) 1 cup mixed
Nuts/seeds (for topping) ¼ cup
Vanilla extract (optional) ½ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mason jar or bowl, combine rolled oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and maple syrup if desired.
  2. Stir well to make sure all ingredients are mixed together.
  3. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to allow the oats to soak up the liquid.
  4. In the morning, top your oats with fresh fruits and nuts or seeds before serving. Enjoy your delicious Overnight Oats!

Zucchini Noodles With Avocado Pesto

zucchini noodles with avocado

Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto is a rejuvenating and healthy lunch option that’s light yet satisfying. This dish features spiralized zucchini as a pasta alternative, paired with a creamy and flavorful avocado pesto sauce. This quick recipe is perfect for warm days or when you’re looking for a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredient Quantity
Zucchini 2 medium-sized
Ripe avocado 1
Fresh basil leaves 1 cup
Garlic clove 1, minced
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup, halved
Pine nuts (optional) ¼ cup, toasted

Cooking Steps:

  1. Using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles from the two zucchinis and set aside.
  2. In a food processor, combine avocado, basil, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the zucchini noodles with the avocado pesto until well coated.
  4. Serve the zucchini noodles garnished with cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts, if desired. Enjoy your nutritious Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.