Keep It Green: 7 Super-Simple Vegan Lunch Ideas

Plant-based diets like veganism have grown extremely popular in the past decade—and for good reason. Going vegan can reduce health issues such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease, while also promoting weight loss. 

Being vegan is great for your health, but sometimes it can be hard to put together a balanced meal; especially during a busy workday. Here are seven easy vegan lunch ideas to try this week. 

1. Chickpea "Tuna" Salad

A chickpea "tuna" salad is the perfect meal to batch prep and enjoy all week long. Simply mash together, chickpeas, vegan mayo, whole grain mustard and a splash of vinegar. Add some chopped onion and celery, season to taste and enjoy over lettuce or between two slices of your favorite bread. 

2. Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the perfect lunchtime canvas. Simply roast a few over the weekend and heat them up for a meal in minutes. There are no limits when it comes to topping your sweet potatoes; add chickpeas, black beans, salsa, roasted red peppers and more!

3. Veggie Sandwich

The hearty sandwich is a lunchtime staple for a reason. It's delicious, filling and can be topped with anything your heart desires. Make yours plant-based by stuffing it full of your favorite veggies. Tomatoes, spinach, cucumbers and pickled onions bring the crunch, while hummus or avocado add a nice creamy touch. Pile it all on your favorite whole grain bread for a perfect easy meal. And for a protein-packed lunch, add an Alpha Foods Chik'n Patty to your sandwich. 

4. Ready-Made Vegan Burrito

These All-Day Burritos from Alpha Foods are the perfect, ready-in-minutes midday meal. Bursting with flavor and wrapped in a fluffy tortilla, each one is packed with protein to keep you running strong in the afternoon. Choose from several unique flavors, including Mexicali, Philly and Chik'n Fajita. 

5. Mediterranean Bowl

The next time you have rice or quinoa for dinner, make a little extra and save it for a lunchtime Mediterranean bowl. Top your grains with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and chickpeas, and add a dollop of hummus or vegan tzatziki for the finishing touch. 

6. Meatless Protein Wrap

Protein wraps are made easy with a ready-to-eat meatless patty. Simply heat up your patty, add it to your wrap and finish it off with your favorite toppings. Tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, hummus or even avocado—the combinations are endless. Wrap it all up and enjoy a filling, protein-packed meal. 

7. Kale and Quinoa Bowl

A kale and quinoa bowl is the perfect easy lunch to mix together—plus, it stays good in the fridge for days. Start with quinoa and sauteed kale. Add chickpeas and your favorite roasted veggies (such as carrots or bell peppers). Finish off with a quick dressing made from apple cider vinegar, olive oil and dijon for a tangy, nutrient-rich meal. 

For more delicious plant-based recipes and ready-to-eat meatless meals, find Alpha Foods in a store near you today.