13 Vegetarian Packed Lunch Ideas

From cold sandwiches to cozy stews - we got you covered. 

As much as we love all 3+ meals of the day, we're focused on lunch this time around! 

However, if you're also looking for quick and easy breakfast ideas, check out our creamy oat bran porridge and tofu scramble.

Some of my other favorites that can be made ahead are chocolate chia seed pudding and blueberry banana bread. 

If you're new to a plant-based diet, I got you - these packed lunch ideas are easy to make with easy-to-find ingredients. 

Made with mushrooms and lentils! It's the perfect dish to serve up with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or a side of white rice.

This meat-free "beef" stew is made with Puerto Rican flavors in mind. It's a vegetarian take to "carne guisada" and it's made with vegan beef tips, carrots, potatoes, and potatoes. Serve with a side of rice, sliced avocado, and plantains.

Don't feel like cooking? A chickpea salad sandwich is a perfect meal! Made with canned chickpeas, onion, and celery. Just load it up into a sandwich, or serve with saltine crackers.

A refreshing, easy pasta is the way to go! Made with sofrito and avocado - this creamy rigatoni is best served chilled.

Oil-free fried rice is the perfect packed lunch for when you want your veggies and your carbs too. It's made with any vegetables you have on hand along with a protein-packed tofu scramble.

Grab those Indian spices and make a creamy, vegan butter chicken for your next lunch meal! Best paired with flatbread/naan, rice, or salad.

Before heading out, grab that tupperware of last night's chili for today's lunch. This tofu bean chili is made with beans, tofu, corn, tomatoes, and a variety of spices.

Palak "paneer" made with tofu, spices, frozen spinach. It's a great way to get in your daily fiber and protein needs. Enjoy it with a side of white rice or bread.

Make lunch fun with a bowl of creamy mac and cheese made with a homemade cashew sauce.

Go into work or school with a bowl of big flavor! This Thai-style vegetable red curry is made with broccoli, red bell peppers, potatoes, and creamy coconut milk.

Need something light and cozy? Go for roasted basil soup made with real tomatoes. Pair with a side salad or grab fruit for a lunch dessert.

Black beans are cheap, packed with protein, and easy to make. They warm up nicely and can be served with a scoop of white rice and sliced avocado for a bulkier meal.

Pack up the toppings and your burgers and you’re ready to go! Serve with a side of potato wedges, roasted potatoes, or onion rings.