What are some good packed lunch ideas for vegans?

I go to college 4 days a week, and there’s pretty much nothing vegan available except maybe chips (and they don’t label anything clearly). I’ve started packing lunches, but I’m stuck on ideas besides hummus wraps. Does anyone have good recipes or tips for vegan packed lunches?

Are you looking for cold lunch ideas only, or do you have access to hot water or a microwave? Or maybe a thermos for things like soups? It’s freezing where I am, so I usually think of hot meals first!

Rory said:
Are you looking for cold lunch ideas only, or do you have access to hot water or a microwave? Or maybe a thermos for things like soups? It’s freezing where I am, so I usually think of hot meals first!

I have a thermos, so soups are an option, but I’m mainly after cold recipes. I’m in the UK, so the weather’s all over the place! Thanks for the help!

If you’re already doing wraps, you should try peanut butter and apple slices. It’s got protein, a bit of saltiness, and the apple adds a sweet crunch. You can even add cinnamon, maple syrup, or nuts to change it up. Super easy to carry around.

@Case
That sounds delicious! I’ve done peanut butter and banana, but apple is new to me. I’ll definitely give it a try, thanks!

I’d suggest checking out vegan recipe forums online. You’ll find loads of inspiration there.

I like to marinate tofu, bake it until it’s firm, and cut it into strips. It’s super easy to eat, satisfying, and goes well with nuts or fruit. You can prep enough for a few days at once too.

Van said:
I like to marinate tofu, bake it until it’s firm, and cut it into strips. It’s super easy to eat, satisfying, and goes well with nuts or fruit. You can prep enough for a few days at once too.

I always have tofu at home, so this is perfect. Thanks a lot!

Have you tried the chickpea tuna salad recipe by Nora Cooks? It’s really simple and tastes amazing!

Brett said:
Have you tried the chickpea tuna salad recipe by Nora Cooks? It’s really simple and tastes amazing!

I’ve got most of the ingredients for this, so I’ll give it a try. Thanks so much!

Brett said:
Have you tried the chickpea tuna salad recipe by Nora Cooks? It’s really simple and tastes amazing!

I love that recipe! It’s such a good one.

I mostly eat leftovers, but if I’m stuck, I like to browse salads at Marks & Spencer for ideas. My favorite right now is quinoa with chickpeas, roasted carrots, a dollop of hummus or baba ghanoush, and some sesame dressing (lemon, sesame oil, and agave syrup). If I need a sandwich, I go for peanut butter and apple.

@Tatum
I have a ton of quinoa to use up, so this is a great idea. Thanks for the suggestion!

Laken said:
@Tatum
I have a ton of quinoa to use up, so this is a great idea. Thanks for the suggestion!

No problem, hope it works out for you!

I use a thermos for rice and beans with seasoned tofu or TVP. Pack tortillas, vegan sour cream, and salsa separately, then assemble tacos when you eat. You can also try curries, soups, salads, or cold sesame noodles with tofu and veggies. Prepping in advance saves a lot of time.

@Blane
Those all sound awesome. I’ve been meaning to try meal prepping, so this is really helpful. Thanks a lot!

If you’ve got a microwave, you can cook quinoa in 15 minutes, add taco seasoning, and mix it with black beans. Pack it in a wrap or thermos, and bring avocado or guacamole to add when you eat. It’s simple but filling!

I like pasta salads (I skip the sauces, but that’s just me) or burritos. Soup with some bread or crackers is another great option.

Sushi is fun to make and pack! Try filling it with avocado, carrot, fried tofu, and some sriracha mayo. Mix your rice with a little mirin and salt before rolling. You can even drizzle hoisin, soy, and maple syrup on top if you like.

I buy microwave rice cups, mix in beans (chickpeas, black beans), fresh avocado, and sweet chili sauce. It’s quick and tasty. Chickpea salad sandwiches are also a go-to for me.