If we could permanently outlaw being ravenous at 11:30 a.m. while also being disappointed with the Tupperware of home-packed lunch we dutifully put in the office fridge, we absolutely would. Until that happens—probably sometime when Frank Ocean's new album drops—we can at least bring lunch we actually want to eat. And that starts with making the most of loyal leftovers like rotisserie chicken and big-batch grains. How exactly? Start with these five ideas for not-at-all-boring weekday lunch, and be the envy of your coworkers.
This open-faced sandwich is a serious upgrade from the tuna salad sandwich you're used to. The magic is in the combination of the fresh chiles, smoke (you can swap out smoked trout for smoked salmon, or even rotisserie chicken if you need to), and a bracing creamy lemon dressing. Keep the components separate until lunchtime, so the bread doesn't sog.
In their usual form, BLTs are nap-inducing—not exactly a productive working lunch. Let Bibb lettuce pinch hit for the usual bun and it's an office lunch-friendly wrap with a zesty, creamy dressing.
If all you can handle prep-wise is putting stuff in a jar and forgetting about it, let this marinated tempeh be your North Star. Let it soak all morning, then use the leftover liquid as dressing in this meatless Asian-style slaw.
Here's the part where you become besties with your office microwave. Get your packet of ramen noodles ready, bring a stock or broth, and a few toppings. Way better than the other instant ramen that used to be your main squeeze, yeah?
If you're going to rummage around in your desk drawer and spoil your appetite on beef jerky anyway, you might as well make it Official. This hearty hodgepodge of a bowl combines the salt, aromatics, meat, and rice you need when a long day's got you down.
Lemony Smoked Trout Tartine
BLT Lettuce Wraps
Sesame Tempeh Slaw
Kimchi Miso Ramen
Rice and Beef Jerky Bowl