46 of Our Best Cold Lunch Ideas

No access to a refrigerator or microwave? You can still have a delicious and hearty midday meal! These cold lunch ideas are perfect when all you have is a lunchbox and a freezer pack.

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Figuring out lunch for the week is hard enough as it is. Add the challenge of not being able to heat something up, and the options are even more limited! That’s why we rounded up our best cold lunch ideas. We made sure they’re easy to cook (with a few no-cook recipes, too!), can be made in the morning for lunch later on and taste best cold from the fridge or lunchbox.

We have lots of filling salad recipes, like hearty grain bowls, loaded cobb salad and dense meat-and-vegetable mixes. Expect a lot of awesome sandwich and wrap recipes, too, with all the trimmings. Pasta salads, lettuce cups, spring rolls and cold soups are some of the many more genius and often-forgotten lunch recipes included in our roundup.

While I’m sure most of you are packing these for school or taking them to the office, keep these ideas in mind when looking for cold picnic foods for the next 70-degree day. Wherever you take these lunches, keep the food cold in an insulated carrier and stash a few freezer packs or frozen water bottles.

1/46

BLT Macaroni Salad

Total Time 30 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: After a friend served this BLT pasta salad, I just had to get the recipe. My husband loves BLT sandwiches, so this has become a favorite of his. It's nice to serve on hot and humid days, which we frequently get during summer here in Virginia. —Mrs. Hamilton Myers Jr., Charlottesville, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 259 calories, 17g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 287mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
2/46

Summer Salad

Total Time 50 min
Servings 10 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I came up with this recipe to show appreciation to all the teachers at my son’s school. The dish had to be as special as the teachers, who always go the extra mile for their students. I think this salad did the trick! It's hearty, earthy, sweet and loaded with nothing but good stuff. —Ramya Ramamurthy, Fremont, California
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 269 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
3/46

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Blue cheese dressing and hot pepper sauce enhance these yummy tortilla wraps. Filled with chicken, cheese, lettuce and tomatoes, these buffalo chicken wraps are colorful, fun to eat...and tote-able, too! —Athena Russell, Florence, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrap: 879 calories, 55g fat (18g saturated fat), 132mg cholesterol, 1589mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 39g protein.
4/46

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Total Time 15 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: After sampling this broccoli salad at a barbecue, I was given the recipe— but without any measurements. I refined the salad at home. Now it's a regular on our table. —Sara Sherlock, Pork Alice, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 420 calories, 35g fat (13g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 585mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein.
5/46

Fresh Spring Rolls

Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I thought rice paper wrappers would be a quick, fun way to turn salad ingredients into a hand-held snack or meal. I also make this with shrimp or add in cranberries. Go ahead—experiment! —Marla Strader, Ozark, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 3 spring rolls: 356 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
6/46

Quinoa Chickpea Salad

Total Time 40 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Quinoa contains more protein than other grains, and that protein is of unusually high quality for a plant food. That makes this a great filling main dish and the blend of flavors and colors will bring everyone at the table back for more. —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey

Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 cups: 355 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 155mg sodium, 70g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 9g fiber), 12g protein.
7/46

Shrimp Pasta Salad

Total Time 25 min
Servings about 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Elbow macaroni, shrimp and crunchy veggies like celery, sweet red pepper and onion get covered in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and yogurt. It's the perfect go-to when you're looking for something light and tasty. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 243 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 263mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
8/46

Cobb Salad

Total Time 40 min
Servings 6 servings (1-1/4 cups dressing)
From the Recipe Creator: Made on the fly by Hollywood restaurateur Bob Cobb in 1937, the Cobb salad is a world-famous American dish. Here's a fresh take, with all the original appeal and an extra special presentation. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 575 calories, 52g fat (8g saturated fat), 147mg cholesterol, 1171mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 20g protein.
9/46

Hearty Muffuletta

Total Time 55 min
Servings 10 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Famous in Louisiana, muffulettas are cold cuts, cheese and olive salad layered into an Italian bread shell. I was happy when a friend and co-worker gave me this recipe so I could make them myself. More than a meal, it’s a dining experience! —Ruth Hayward, Lake Charles, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 378 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 1103mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
10/46

California Roll Wraps

Total Time 20 min
Servings 6 wraps
From the Recipe Creator: I love the California rolls I get at sushi restaurants and wanted to capture those flavors in a sandwich I could take to work. I started with the standard ingredients, added a few others and came up with a hit. —Mary Pax-Shipley, Bend, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrap: 365 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 647mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
11/46

Gyro Salad with Tzatziki Dressing

Total Time 30 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: If you’re fond of gyros, you’ll enjoy this garden-fresh salad showcasing ground lamb, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, tomatoes and a creamy, tangy dressing. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 236 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 807mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
12/46

Salmon Salad Sandwich

Total Time 10 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Salmon salad sandwiches are perfect to pack in lunchboxes when your kids can’t face another boring sandwich. We love salmon, cream cheese and dill tucked inside a crusty roll. The carrots and celery add a nice crunch. —Yvonne Shust, Shoal Lake, Manitoba
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 463 calories, 29g fat (12g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 1158mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 25g protein.
13/46

Grilled Chicken Ramen Salad

Total Time 30 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I love this chicken ramen salad because it’s a complete meal in one bowl. Everyone loves when it’s on the table—that’s a reaction that doesn’t happen every night, so I appreciate the kudos when I get them! —Karen Carlson, Alameda, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 458 calories, 29g fat (4g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 738mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein.
14/46

Buffalo Tofu Wrap

Total Time 20 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My family loves the tofu filling in this wrap! For parties, we often serve it as a dip with tortilla chips or pita bread. My husband requests this often, and it’s super easy to double the recipe if needed. —Deanna Wolfe, Muskegon, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrap: 452 calories, 29g fat (7g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1066mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
15/46

Turkey, Gouda & Apple Tea Sandwiches

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Cut into triangles or quarters, these fun mini sandwiches are a tasty addition to an afternoon tea gathering. The cranberry mayo lends an original flavor twist, and the apples give them a sweet-tart crunch. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 tea sandwich: 59 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 150mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
16/46

Ham Caesar Salad

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: One bite, and you’ll fall in love with this combo! Serve with fresh iced tea and banana splits for a casual menu that won’t heat up your kitchen. —Mary Ann Schlabach, Sarasota, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1-3/4 cups with 2 tablespoons dressing: 326 calories, 22g fat (5g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 1108mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
17/46

Club Roll-Ups

Total Time 25 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Packed with meat, cheese and olives, these roll-ups are always a hit at parties.
Nutrition Facts: 1 roll-up: 554 calories, 29g fat (12g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 1802mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 27g protein.
18/46

Chicken Caesar Pitas

Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Hand-held and picnic friendly, these chicken-stuffed pockets pack a double dose of whole grains from brown rice and whole wheat pitas. The chicken can be made up to 2 days in advance for a fast-fix lunch. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 2 filled pita halves: 398 calories, 10 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 65 mg cholesterol, 919 mg sodium, 44 g carbohydrate (3 g sugars, 5 g fiber), 31 g protein.
19/46

Mint-Cucumber Tomato Sandwiches

Total Time 15 min
Servings 4 sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator: I jazzed up the quintessential teatime cucumber sandwich to suit my family's tastes. This was my absolute go-to sandwich last summer when I was pregnant. It hit all the right spots! —Namrata Telugu, Terre Haute, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 286 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 631mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 9g protein.
20/46

Tuna and White Bean Lettuce Wraps

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Here's a fabulous way to dress up ordinary tuna salad. This easy recipe makes a quick dinner or lunch at the office, and it's good for you. —Heather Senger, Madison, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 3 wraps: 279 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 421mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 7g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 starch.
21/46

Chickpea Salad Sandwiches

Total Time 15 min
Servings 6 servings
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 295 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 586mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 10g protein.
22/46

Chicken Salad Caprese

Total Time 45 min
Servings 8 cups salad (6-1/2 dozen crostini)
From the Recipe Creator: This unique, flavorful salad and bread combo will get rave reviews—guaranteed. —Frances Pietsch, Flower Mound, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 179 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 316mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
23/46

Gingered Spaghetti Salad

Total Time 30 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: We love this chilled chicken salad brimming with colorful veggies. Make it meatless by omitting the chicken and tossing in more edamame. —Cindy Heinbaugh, Aurora, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1-3/4 cups: 355 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 431mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 7g fiber), 26g protein.
24/46

Shrimp Gazpacho

Total Time 15 min
Servings 12 servings (3 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a refreshing take on the classic chilled tomato soup. Our twist features shrimp, lime and plenty of avocado. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 112 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 399mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
25/46

Beef ‘n’ Cheese Wraps

Total Time 10 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: These make-ahead wraps are delicious, portable and ideal for picnics and tailgates. Enjoy them whole or slice them into 1-inch pieces to serve them as an appetizer. They also make an excellent lunch on the go. —Sue Sibson, Howard, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 whole wrap: 657 calories, 35g fat (20g saturated fat), 143mg cholesterol, 1431mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 7g fiber), 38g protein.
26/46

Havarti Turkey Hero

Total Time 15 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This is not your ordinary sandwich! Everyone loves the combination of chutney and chopped peanuts. I like to make this when I have company in the afternoon or at night after a game of cards. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 302 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 973mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
27/46

Steak & Blue Cheese Bruschetta with Onion & Roasted Tomato Jam

Total Time 55 min
Servings 16 appetizers
From the Recipe Creator: An appetizer bursting with flavor from bleu cheese, caramelized onion, jam and balsamic vinegar—tasty bites that vanish in a hurry. —Debbie Reid, Clearwater, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 185 calories, 14g fat (6g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 292mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
28/46

Vietnamese Chicken Salad

Total Time 40 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: When I lived in Cleveland I would eat at a really good Vietnamese restaurant that had a dish I couldn't get enough of. Since I had it so frequently, I figured out the components and flavors and created my own easy-to-make version. Everyone who's tasted it loves it. —Erin Schillo, Northfield, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 2 cups: 743 calories, 59g fat (9g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1068mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 7g fiber), 35g protein.
29/46

Lobster Rolls

Total Time 30 min
Servings 8 sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator: To be truly authentic, melt a tablespoon of butter in a skillet and toast the outsides of the buns before filling with the cool lobster. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 354 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 133mg cholesterol, 887mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein.
30/46

Chicken Salad Croissants

Total Time 15 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This tempting chicken salad that gets its special taste from Swiss cheese and pickle relish. It's a favorite of my brother, who insists I make it whenever he visits. —Laura Koziarski, Battle Creek, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 593 calories, 40g fat (14g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 818mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
31/46

Shrimp Avocado Salad

Total Time 25 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: The delicious taste and smooth texture of avocados and the crisp shrimp salad create a heavenly combination. Serve it as a cool and satisfying lunch or a light, quick and easy dinner. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup avocado mixture: 252 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 523mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 2 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
32/46

Champion Roast Beef Sandwiches

Total Time 15 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: When I have time, I like to prepare a roast with this much-requested recipe in mind. But when I need a quick meal in a hurry, I use deli roast beef with delicious results.
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 318 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 1401mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 18g protein.
33/46

Hasselback Tomato Clubs

Total Time 15 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This no-fuss, no-bread riff on a classic is perfect during tomato season. Make it for lunch or pair it with pasta salad for a light dinner. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 2 stuffed tomatoes: 272 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 803mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein.
34/46

Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad

Total Time 25 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I love all the colors and flavors of this quick and easy dish and serve it often in summer, to the delight of my guests! You can't beat the combination of Gorgonzola and bacon. Leftover grilled shrimp makes a tasty substitute for chicken. —Terry McCarty, Oro Grande, California
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/3 cup: 408 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 323mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein.
35/46

Focaccia Sandwiches

Total Time 15 min
Servings 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Slices of this pretty sandwich make any casual get-together more special. Add or change ingredients to your taste. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 113 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 405mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
36/46

Better than Egg Salad

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Tofu takes on the taste and texture of egg salad in this quick-fixing sandwich from Lisa Renshaw of Kansas City, Missouri.
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 266 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 692mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
37/46

Cranberry Turkey Wraps

Total Time 15 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Fruity and flavorful, these hefty grab-and-go handfuls are quick to assemble, easy to handle and low in calories. We often take them in a cooler to the local stock show and eat them in the stands. Everyone seems to love them! —Bobbie Keefer, Byers, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrap: 374 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 1477mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
38/46

Almond Chicken Salad

Total Time 15 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My mother used to prepare this chicken salad with grapes and almonds for an evening meal during the hot summer months. It's my favorite of my mother's chicken salad recipes. You can also serve it as a delicious but quick luncheon or potluck dish. —Kathy Kittell, Lenexa, Kansas
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 351 calories, 23g fat (5g saturated fat), 152mg cholesterol, 540mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
39/46

Hummus & Veggie Wrap-Up

Total Time 15 min
Servings 1 serving
From the Recipe Creator: I had a vegan wrap that was similar to this once when I stopped at a diner while on a long and arduous walk. I enjoyed it so much that I modified it to my own taste and now have it for lunch on a regular basis. Everyone at work wants to know how to make it. —Michael Steffens, Indianapolis, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrap: 235 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 415mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
40/46

Summer Chicken Macaroni Salad

Total Time 25 min
Servings 16 servings
From the Recipe Creator: For sunny, lazy days, I make a loaded macaroni salad that’s like three salads in one. The mix of fresh veggies, sweet peaches and crunchy pistachios is a surprisingly delicious combo. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 312 calories, 16g fat (5g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 379mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
41/46

Tomato & Avocado Sandwiches

Total Time 10 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I'm a vegetarian, and this is a tasty, quick and healthy lunch I could eat for every meal. At my house, we call these sandwiches HATS: hummus, avocado, tomato and shallots. These are ingredients I almost always have on hand. —Sarah Jaraha, Moorestown, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 278 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 379mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
42/46

Cashew-Chicken Rotini Salad

Total Time 30 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I’ve tried many chicken salad recipes over the years, but this is my very favorite. It’s fresh, fruity and refreshing, and the cashews add wonderful crunch. Every time I serve it at a potluck or picnic, I get rave reviews—and ( always come home with an empty bowl! —Kara Cook, Elk Ridge, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/3 cups: 661 calories, 37g fat (6g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 451mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 4g fiber), 23g protein.
43/46

Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My family thinks this sandwich is pure heaven thanks to the cranberry-pecan mayo. It's so good that they ask me to make it all year long. —Judy Wilson, Sun City West, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1 wedge: 707 calories, 41g fat (10g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 1153mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein.
44/46

Tarragon Tuna Salad

Total Time 10 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: It’s surprising how a few herbs can brighten up tuna salad. Made with reduced-fat mayonnaise, this version gets its zip from mustard. It makes a terrific light lunch or Sunday brunch dish. —Billie Moss, Walnut Creek, California
Nutrition Facts: 2/3 cup: 151 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 373mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
45/46

BLT Turkey Salad

Total Time 20 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This variation of a BLT salad goes great with a side of garlic bread or garlic toast, and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. —Sherry Conley, Noel Hants County, Nova Scotia
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 294 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 410mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
46/46

Chicken Caesar Wrap

Total Time 15 min
Servings 6 wraps
From the Recipe Creator: This classic handheld with tender chicken, Parmesan cheese and chopped Caesar croutons features the perfect amount of dressing for a tasty meal any night. Nancy Pratt - Longview, TX
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrap: 337 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 730mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.

Cold Lunch Ideas FAQs

What are some good cold lunch ideas to pack for school or work?

Cold lunch ideas include sandwiches, pasta salads, spring rolls, wraps, cold soups like gazpacho, chicken salad, chickpea salad and avocado salad.

What are the best cold sandwich ideas for lunch?

The best cold sandwich ideas for lunch are ones with hearty ingredients that will keep the bread from becoming soggy. For example, BLTs are pretty juicy and may make the bread a bit soggy by the time lunch comes around. However, sandwiches with deli meats and cheese will keep the bread dry. You can always put condiments on when you’re ready to enjoy the sandwiches.

What are some tips for packing a cold lunch?

Some of the best tips for packing a cold lunch are the same ones we keep in mind when keeping food cold while camping: Use lots of freezer packs, store any lunchtime sodas or water outside of your lunchbox (or store with frozen bottles of water!), chill the lunchbox ahead of time and keep the lunchbox in a shady, cool area.