Lunch Ideas for One or Two

Lunch can be a tricky meal when you’re cooking for just yourself or one other person. It’s tempting to grab something quick and pre-made, but homemade options are often fresher, more satisfying, and more tailored to what you’re craving. I’ve found that having a handful of lunch ideas designed for smaller portions makes all the difference—less waste, less effort, and more variety.

Some of my favorites include quick crab fried rice and fresh salads like a simple Santa Fe Salad. These recipes are easy to prepare, don’t require fancy ingredients, and can often be made in under 20 minutes. Whether it’s a creamy tomato soup for a cozy afternoon or a hearty chicken avocado melt with a side of fruit, these meals are just the right size to fill you up without leaving you stuck with leftovers you don’t want.

Cooking lunch for one or two also gives you a chance to try new flavors without committing to a big batch. Veggie-topped ground pork tacos or a personal pizza with a light homemade pizza sauce with fresh tomatoes can turn a regular lunch break into something special. These recipes are flexible, quick to clean up, and perfect for keeping your midday meal interesting and fresh. Once you try them, you might never go back to pre-packaged lunches again!