Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience? Look no further! As a busy individual, it can be challenging to whip up a delicious meal that’s both quick and healthy. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 20 mouth-watering electric lunch box recipes that are sure to become your new go-to solutions for hectic days.
From savory stir-fries to creamy casseroles, these recipes showcase the versatility of an electric lunch box. Imagine being able to cook everything from succulent chicken and vegetables to hearty stews and risottos, all in one convenient container. Whether you’re a busy professional or a student on-the-go, these recipes are designed to fuel your body with nutritious meals that can be prepared in no time.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of electric lunch box cooking, sharing our favorite recipes and tips for making mealtime a breeze.
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this classic Japanese-inspired dish, featuring tender chicken breast glazed with a rich teriyaki sauce, served over flavorful Japanese-style rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, sake, and sesame oil.
3. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush teriyaki glaze onto the cooked chicken during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve chicken atop cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
This quick and easy recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables, protein, and flavor. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup of broccoli florets
– 1 cup of snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 2 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Quinoa Bowl
Transform your quinoa bowl into a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal with this simple recipe. With the combination of cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and spicy toppings, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss bell pepper, onion, and zucchini with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Fluff cooked quinoa and stir in black beans. Add roasted vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble bowls by dividing the quinoa mixture among bowls. Top with desired toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the richness of honey and garlic, perfectly balanced by the crunch of steamed broccoli. A quick and easy dinner that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and soy sauce. Pour over shrimp and stir to coat.
5. Steam broccoli in a separate pot until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve shrimp with steamed broccoli and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food dish, loaded with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and rich flavors. With minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red bell pepper, parsley, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Thai Noodles
Get ready to spice up your life with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, and sriracha sauce. Pour sauce into the wok; stir to combine.
5. Add cooked noodles and cilantro to the wok; toss to coat with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the simplicity of rice with the goodness of broccoli and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium head broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Add the rice mixture and top with broccoli florets.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic dish, this recipe pairs the rich flavors of salmon with the sweetness of asparagus and the tanginess of lemon. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, and dill.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Toss asparagus with salt and pepper to taste. Spread on a separate baking sheet.
8. Roast asparagus in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a beloved Korean dish that literally means “mixed rice,” and this recipe brings together a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. With a variety of colorful vegetables, savory beef, and a fried egg on top, this nutritious meal is perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
– 1/4 cup diced zucchini
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup diced beef (cooked and seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and sugar)
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame oil and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat a non-stick pan with sesame oil over medium heat. Add the bean sprouts, mushrooms, zucchini, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Assemble the Bibimbap by placing a scoop of rice in a bowl, followed by the vegetable mixture and cooked beef.
5. Place a fried egg on top and drizzle with Gochujang.
6. Garnish with sesame oil and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes and pesto. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to release their juices and the pesto is heated through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-pesto mixture.
4. Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curried Lentils with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
This comforting dish combines juicy chicken breasts with flavorful garlic butter and tender potatoes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Toss potato wedges with remaining garlic butter mixture, spreading them out in a single layer on a separate baking sheet.
5. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes and potatoes for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice
A flavorful and nutritious Chinese-inspired dish made with a medley of colorful vegetables, savory soy sauce, and fluffy cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and bean sprouts; stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet or wok, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry until the rice is well coated and slightly crispy at the bottom (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla recipe, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped cilantro, sour cream, or salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked black beans and corn kernels; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet, then top with half of the bean and corn mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with this flavorful and savory recipe that combines the richness of feta cheese with the nutrients of spinach. This stuffed chicken breast is a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that balances sweet and sour flavors with tender pork, this recipe is a must-try for any cooking enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
2. Add the pork pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook pork until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Pour the remaining marinade into the wok or skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Couscous with Chickpeas
This classic Moroccan dish combines the comforting warmth of couscous with the creamy richness of chickpeas, all infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add couscous. Cover, turn off heat, and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chickpeas to the pan and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Fluff couscous with a fork and mix with the chickpea mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich
Get ready to experience a vegan twist on traditional BBQ pulled pork sandwiches! This recipe uses jackfruit as a meat substitute, marinated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the jackfruit to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill the jackfruit for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the pulled jackfruit onto hamburger buns.
6. Top with coleslaw or pickles if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
This creamy mushroom risotto recipe is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushroom mixture.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
6. Warm the vegetable broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup of broth at a time to the risotto, stirring constantly, until creamy and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes total.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy lunch box recipes to fuel your busy days? Look no further! This article features 20 delicious and nutritious electric lunch box recipes that can be prepared in no time. From international flavors like Teriyaki Chicken and Rice, Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu, and Moroccan Couscous with Chickpeas, to comfort food classics like Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole and Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are perfect for busy professionals, students, and anyone looking for a convenient and healthy meal solution.
