Adult Brown Bag Lunch Ideas

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I’ve spent so much time the past few weeks worrying about school and at-home lunch ideas. As I’m sure I’ve mentioned, part of my biggest problem is burn-out. Like anyone, the kids get tired of eating the same lunch over and over again. My husband and I get tired of eating the same thing too. But when it comes right down to it, we eat whatever is on hand, even though that sometimes means we have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches three days in a row.  If anything, it’s easier than packing everyone up and running out to pick up something or make a quick run to the grocery store.

However, I can’t imagine the temptation faced when working outside of the home. Knowing myself, I would absolutely be running out to grab a fast food lunch (or Chinese take-out) at least a few days a week. So I definitely understand this email I received from a reader the other day.

Stephanie says:

I have seen many blogs including yours talk about school lunch options, but I haven’t seen many for adults.  I get bored with taking my lunch so I end up buying something which is not very frugal of me.  So I would love to see a series about brown bag lunches for adults.  Or if you know any food bloggers who have already done something, can you please point me in the right direction?

Here are a few ideas that I know I’d enjoy taking in a brown bag:

Homemade Portillos Chopped Salad would make a great lunch, but I’d definitely leave the dressing on the side and toss just before eating.


Assuming refrigerator access, Cherry Pecan Chicken Salad would make an awesome lunch served by itself, with crackers or as a sandwich.

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Sure they’re a breakfast time favorite, but Bacon and Cheese Muffins often make a welcome appearance on our lunch table. Since they’re so portable, they’d definitely be a great brown bag option.

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Stuffed Breadsticks taste just a good at room temperature as they do right out of the oven, making them an ideal brown bag option.

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I’ve always been a fan of lunches that center around soup in a thermos. Mini Meatball & Arugula Soup would definitely take that childhood favorite to an adult level.

Now it’s your turn! I know I’d love your input and ideas and I’m sure Stephanie would as well. What are some good brown bag lunch ideas for adults? Tips, ideas, recipes and links are all appreciated! I’ll pull all of your suggestions together and do a round-up post of them later this week. Thanks in advance!