Top 7 Simple Low Carb Lunches For Work - Cook What You Love (2024)

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by Chef Jenn Allen

Published: February 6, 2024

Looking for some easy-to-make, low-carb lunch options to take to work? You’re in the right spot. We all know the midday slump can hit hard, especially with heavy lunches that make you want to take a nap under your desk. That’s why we’ve rounded up 7 great ideas that are not only simple to prepare but also kind to your carb count. These lunches are perfect for keeping your energy levels steady and your cravings at bay, so you can power through your afternoon like a champ.

We get it, mornings can be a rush, and the last thing you need is a complicated lunch prep. That’s why these picks are all about simplicity and speed, without skimping on flavor or satisfaction. From fresh salads that pack a punch to hearty soups that feel like a hug in a bowl, there’s something for every taste. Best part? You won’t find yourself reaching for the cookie jar an hour later. So, let’s get your lunch game on point with these easy, low-carb options that are sure to make your workdays a bit brighter.

Top 7 Simple Low Carb Lunches For Work - Cook What You Love (1)

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Bringing a bit of nostalgia to your lunchbox, Old Fashioned Ham Salad is a classic that never gets old. It’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy, making your lunch break something to look forward to. Perfect for those days when you want something hearty yet low in carbs. And hey, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ham, making it a win-win for your wallet and your waistline.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts is your go-to when you’re craving something that hits the sweet and savory spot. It’s packed with flavor and texture, making each bite interesting and fulfilling. This salad is a breeze to put together in the morning, ensuring you have more time to enjoy your coffee. Plus, it’s light enough to keep you moving but filling enough to keep hunger pangs at bay.
Get the Recipe:

Top 7 Simple Low Carb Lunches For Work - Cook What You Love (2)

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Authentic Hungarian Goulash is like a warm hug in the middle of your workday. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for those cooler days when you need a little extra warmth. This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a great addition to your low-carb lunch rotation. And it’s sure to spark some interest around the lunch table, maybe even a bit of lunchtime travel envy.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Smoked Beef Stew

Smoked Beef Stew brings a robust and hearty option to your lunch game. It’s like bringing the flavors of a slow-cooked Sunday dinner to your Monday through Friday grind. Easy to prepare in batches, it’s ideal for meal prepping and ensuring you have a satisfying lunch all week. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to warm up and recharge during those busy workdays.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew

Top 7 Simple Low Carb Lunches For Work - Cook What You Love (3)

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad is a zesty twist on a classic, proving salads don’t have to be boring. It’s loaded with bold flavors that make every bite exciting, ensuring you’re not just eating it because it’s good for you. This salad comes together in no time, making your morning routine a breeze. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and taste, making lunchtime something you’ll look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad brings a burst of freshness to your lunch, making it feel like a mini escape in the middle of your day. It’s crisp, refreshing, and full of flavors that meld beautifully together. This salad is as easy to toss together as it is to enjoy, ensuring you’re not spending your precious morning minutes in the kitchen. And it’s the perfect sidekick to any main, adding a refreshing touch to your lunch.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Top 7 Simple Low Carb Lunches For Work - Cook What You Love (4)

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup is your answer to lunchtime monotony. It’s light, flavorful, and has just the right kick to spice up your midday meal. This soup is surprisingly simple to make and even easier to pack, making it a no-fuss option for busy mornings. Plus, it’s the kind of lunch that gets better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

By Chef Jenn Allen

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Top 7 Simple Low Carb Lunches For Work - Cook What You Love (2024)

FAQs

What's a good lunch for a low carb diet? ›

Low-carb lunch recipes
  • Nutty chicken satay strips. A star rating of 4.6 out of 5. ...
  • Waldorf salad. A star rating of 4.5 out of 5. ...
  • Celery soup. A star rating of 4.7 out of 5. ...
  • Masala frittata with avocado salsa. A star rating of 4.6 out of 5. ...
  • Easy egg muffins. ...
  • Cauliflower soup. ...
  • Baked salmon. ...
  • Crustless quiche.

What can I have for lunch instead of carbs? ›

Top 10 low-carb lunch ideas
  • Spiced carrot & lentil soup. ...
  • Nutty chicken satay strips. ...
  • Mackerel club sandwich. ...
  • Bulgur & quinoa lunch bowls. ...
  • Cumin-spiced halloumi with corn & tomato slaw. ...
  • Microwave shakshuka. ...
  • Turkey & clementine lunch bowl. ...
  • Tuna, fennel and bean salad.

What foods are filling but low in carbs? ›

36 tasty, low-carb foods that will keep you full and satisfied
  • Avocado. A whole avocado has about 15 grams of carbs, but you're unlikely to eat the entire thing in one sitting, so it's more realistic that you'll get 4 or 5 carbs in one meal or snack. ...
  • Broccoli. ...
  • Coconut oil. ...
  • Eggplant. ...
  • Eggs. ...
  • Grapefruit. ...
  • Greek yogurt. ...
  • Green beans.

What is the healthiest thing to eat for lunch at work? ›

Choose from pasta or rice salads, homemade protein pots, hearty soups or filling wraps and sandwiches. Pack your lunchbox full of nutritious ingredients and look forward to a midday meal that not only tastes great, but is good for you too.

What can I take to work for lunch instead of sandwiches? ›

Healthy packed lunch recipes
  • Chicken with Spanish-style butter beans. A star rating of 4.3 out of 5. ...
  • Butter bean curry wraps. ...
  • Caesar pitta. ...
  • Giant couscous salad with charred veg & tangy pesto. ...
  • Roasted veg & couscous salad. ...
  • Vegan kale pesto pasta. ...
  • Lime prawn co*cktail pitta salad. ...
  • Lentil salad with tahini dressing.

What happens if you eat no carbs for a week? ›

Severe carb limits can cause your body to break down fat into ketones for energy. This is called ketosis. Ketosis can cause side effects such as bad breath, headache, fatigue and weakness. It's not clear what kind of possible long-term health risks a low-carb diet may pose.

What snack food has no carbs? ›

Zero Carb Snacks:
  • Cheese: A savory and satisfying snack, cheese is low in carbs and high in flavor. ...
  • Hard-Boiled Eggs: Packed with protein and virtually carb-free, hard-boiled eggs make for a portable and nutritious snack. ...
  • Pork Rinds: Crispy and carb-free, pork rinds are a savory alternative to traditional snacks.

What is the best food to eat with no carbs? ›

Food and drinks allowed on a no-carb diet include meat, fish, eggs, cheese, butter, oils, water, and plain coffee or tea. If you're less stringent, you can also eat nuts, seeds, non-starchy vegetables, and high fat fruits like avocado and coconut since these foods are low in net carbs.

What can I eat daily without carbs? ›

People following a low carb, high protein diet can include the following 14 foods in their meals:
  • eggs.
  • fish and shellfish.
  • meat.
  • poultry.
  • certain dairy.
  • nonstarchy vegetables.
  • seeds.
  • soy.

How to start a low-carb diet for beginners? ›

Here are a few tips to get started:
  1. Opt for a meat- or fish-based main dish.
  2. Choose plain water instead of sugary soda or fruit juice.
  3. Get extra vegetables or a side salad instead of bread, potatoes, or rice.
  4. Check the menu beforehand to find options that fit your daily carb allowance.
Dec 13, 2023

What are cheap low carb foods? ›

The Basics of Low Carb Eating on a Budget
  • Eggs: An affordable powerhouse of nutrition.
  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and lettuce are low in carbs and great for the wallet.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Perfect for snacking or adding crunch to salads.
  • Legumes: In moderation, certain beans and lentils can fit into a low-carb plan.
Dec 5, 2023

What are the top 10 carbohydrate foods? ›

Healthful, whole-food carbohydrate sources include:
  • sweet potatoes.
  • beetroot.
  • corn.
  • quinoa.
  • brown rice.
  • oats.
  • bananas.
  • apples.
Jul 19, 2022

What are 5 healthy lunch combinations? ›

29 Healthy Lunches You Can Make in 5 Minutes
  • 01 of 29. Roasted Veggie & Tofu Brown Rice Bowl. ...
  • 02 of 29. White Bean & Avocado Toast. ...
  • 03 of 29. Edamame & Veggie Rice Bowl. ...
  • 04 of 29. Egg Salad Avocado Toast. ...
  • 05 of 29. 3-Ingredient Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Salad. ...
  • 06 of 29. Cucumber & Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Wrap. ...
  • 07 of 29. ...
  • 08 of 29.
Nov 29, 2023

What to eat instead of bread for lunch? ›

Here are some bread substitutes to try
  • Corn, reduced-carb or whole-grain tortillas.
  • Cheese wraps or cheese slices.
  • Coconut wraps.
  • Cauliflower bread.
  • Cucumber slices.
  • Sweet potato slices.
  • Bell pepper slices.
  • Portobello mushrooms.
Jun 29, 2022

What lunch meat is low carb? ›

Cold meats that are keto-friendly include most deli meats, like sliced turkey, ham, and roast beef. Most cold cuts and keto deli meats contain additives to extend their shelf life, so they may have small amounts of carbs.

What is an example of a low-carb diet? ›

The Atkins diet is the best-known low-carb eating plan. It involves reducing all high-carb foods while eating as much protein and fat as desired.

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