5 BEST Budget- Friendly Lunch Ideas 

One of the biggest things young adults worry about when they make the transition from their parent’s house to college to the “real world” is how they are going to eat! I get it, There’s a lot to think about- that college dining plan was SO convenient. Now you have to learn how to cook, plan meals in advance, grocery shop, or…. Just get take out everyday! Yikes- your budget is going to feel a hit on that one. And although it can feel super easy and tempting to get the $16 salad from the trendy place next door right in the middle of a busy work day, lunchtime can either be your biggest budget drain or your biggest budget WIN if you make the right choices. Here are Soro’s favorite lunch time inspirations for those of you who are still learning how to balance it all to keep both your stomach and wallet happy and satisfied!

Homemade Wraps

This is one of the most budget friendly and customizable lunches- so you can eat it week after week, keep mixing it up, and never get sick of it! And with the right fillings, you can prep it in advance, it travels well in tupperware or aluminum foil, and you’ll get all the nutrients you need to feel full and energized the rest of the afternoon. Some of our favorite combos include:

Chicken salad: Chopped chicken breast, mayonnaise, and celery (or apples if you like the crunch!)

PB& Banana: Peanut butter and Banana 

Veggie Wrap: Hummus, salad, avocado, carrots, and cucumber

Breakfast for lunch: Scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage 

Budget tip: Buy the tortillas in bulk for extra savings

Rice Bowls 

I know you’ve heard the saying: if you’re on a budget stick to rice and beans! Although that may be a little extreme, they weren’t lying when they said it’s definitely budget friendly! This is another great option that gives a wallet friendly foundation with limitless topping potential to make sure you always have a tasty option you’re actually in the mood for- no leftovers dying in the fridge over here. Here are some different variations:

Start with Rice, Brown Rice, or Quinoa (if you’re feeling fancy!)

Mexican Bowl: Chicken, salsa, black beans, and cheese

Asian Inspired: salmon, avocado, carrots, and teriyaki sauce (or soy sauce if you prefer!)

Veggie Bowl: Tofu, cucumber, chickpeas, broccoli 

Budget Tip: Buy frozen vegetables. Same nutrients, smaller grocery bill- win, win!

Pasta Salad

 If you know how to boil water, you know how to make pasta. This is one of the first things most people learn how to cook so even if you’re an absolute beginner, you’ll be able to tackle this one, for sure! Add in your favorite protein, veggie, and dressing, and you’re good to go. It stays fresh in the fridge for several days so Meal prep for the week in 30 mins or less- done! Your bank account will thank you. 

Green Goddess: Pesto, peas, asparagus 

Italian inspired: Ham, salami, provolone, tomatoes 

Mediterranean: Mozzarella, cucumber, tomato

Budget Tip: Buy the pasta in bulk!

Quesadillas

 Easy to make, easy to store, easy to freeze: check, check, check! Quesadillas are a perfect for budget friendly lunch to take to the office, or on the go to save you some major money at that Mexican food truck. 

Buy your tortillas in bulk

Add in some protein: shredded chicken, or ground beef

Top it with some cheese: Shredded cheddar or mozzarella 

Choose your sauces: Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa are great options!

Budget Tip: If you buy the cheese in blocks and shred it  yourself, it’s cheaper than buying the pre-shredded cheese

Stir Fry

Why Stir Fry? 1. You already have the ingredients at home 2. It's packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients 3. It's hearty and filling 4. It actually tastes better as leftovers and 5. Last but not least…  It's so cheap! This is another great option for a customizable lunch. If you have any leftover protein, noodles, and veggies- throw it all together in a pan with your favorite sauce and spices. It helps stop food waste and stops you from ordering Chinese food on Door Dash!

Budget Tip: Use low cost flavors, like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to take your stir fry from leftovers to restaurant quality without the price tag! 

How much will you save?

Average cost of a workday lunch? $15! Average cost of one of Soro’s lunches? $5! If someone handed you a $10 bill every single day from Monday to Friday, would you take it? By meal prepping some of these easy recipes that’s essentially what you’re doing for your wallet. Making your lunch at home doesn’t need to be complicated, expensive, or boring. From wraps, to pasta salad, to stir fry, you can mix it up and pack on the flavors so you’re the envy of the lunch crew, while still saving and budgeting for that Euro summer trip. I don't know about you, but we’d rather buy our lunch overlooking the French Riviera than from the cafe down the street. So next time you notice you’re getting into the habit of reaching for door dash, try to skip the takeout and start budgeting your cheap lunch ideas!

Want more money- saving tips? Learn how to budget, save, and invest in our Ultimate Money Guide so you can get started on managing your money with confidence and learn how to THRIVE, not just survive!