Sandwiches are the ultimate versatile and portable lunch option.
With a little prep work, you can make a variety of delicious sandwiches ahead of time for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Here are 20 easy make-ahead sandwich ideas to liven up your lunchbox:
1. Coronation Chicken Sandwich (350 calories)
The sandwich is named after Coronation Chicken, a dish created in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation banquet.
While the original recipe involved poaching chicken and making a complex sauce, modern versions simplify the process by using cooked chicken and basic pantry ingredients.
Shredded chicken in a creamy curry-spiced mayo, with raisins and sliced almonds for crunch. Serve on whole wheat bread.
2. Veggie Club Sandwich (280 calories)
Layer hummus, grated carrot, sliced tomatoes, and cucumbers between toasted whole-grain bread. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Tuna Melt (400 calories)
Mix tuna salad with diced celery and onion. Spread on rye bread and top with cheddar cheese. Grill in a panini press until crispy.
4. Chicken Salad Sandwich (320 calories)
Shredded chicken, grapes, toasted pecans, and a touch of mayo make this a tasty, protein-packed sandwich on croissants.
5. Muffuletta Sandwich (280 calories)
The Muffuletta Sandwich is a classic New Orleans creation that features a unique combination of Italian cold cuts, cheeses, and a robust olive salad, all layered inside a round, sesame-seeded loaf of bread.
This sandwich is known for its bold flavors and is often served at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings and picnics.
6- Caprese Sandwich (320 calories)
Layer fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, basil leaves and a balsamic glaze on ciabatta rolls.
7. Turkey Pesto Sandwich (Calories: 350-450)
Sliced turkey, pesto, and arugula on a baguette making it a perfect option for lunch or a light dinner. This sandwich is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences.
8. AVOCADO SPROUTS SANDWICH
The Avocado Sprouts Sandwich is a delicious and nutritious option that combines creamy avocado with fresh vegetables and crunchy sprouts, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or snack.
This vegetarian sandwich is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and health benefits.
9. Slab Sandwich
Hearty and flavorful, this slab mini sandwiches features a savory olive tapenade, creamy whipped honey goat cheese, and sweet roasted red peppers, making it a standout choice for any party or gathering.
10. Chickpea Salad Sandwich (300 calories)
The Chickpea Salad Sandwich is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meat-based sandwiches, perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
This sandwich features a creamy filling made primarily from chickpeas, which are mashed and mixed with a variety of flavorful ingredients. Mash chickpeas with vegan mayo, Dijon, dill, and celery. Serve on whole grain bread with lettuce.
11. TURKEY CRANBERRY CREAM CHEESE SANDWICH
This festive sandwich features tender turkey with tangy cranberry sauce and creamy cheese, making it a delicious and seasonal choice for any gathering.
12. Turkey, Apple and Cheddar Sandwich (380 calories)
Layer turkey, sliced apples, cheddar cheese, and honey mustard on whole-grain bread.
13. Chicken Pot Hand Pies
Chicken Pot Hand Pies is made with puff pastry filled with chicken and veggies.
These hand pies feature a flaky crust filled with a savory mixture of chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce, making them perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack.
14. Panera Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich
The sandwich is known for its balance of flavors—earthy hummus, briny feta, and the sweetness of roasted peppers, all layered between the soft, slightly sweet tomato basil bread.
It’s a satisfying vegetarian option that is both nutritious and delicious, making it a popular choice for lunch.
15. New York Club Sandwich
The New York Club Sandwich is a classic American sandwich known for its hearty layers and satisfying flavors.
Originating from the Union Club in New York City in the late 19th century, this triple-decker sandwich typically consists of toasted bread, sliced turkey or chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a generous spread of mayonnaise.
16. Balsamic Grilled Veggie Sandwich (350 calories)
Grill eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions in a balsamic marinade. Layer on ciabatta rolls with hummus.
17. Easy Sandwich Pinwheels
18. Cucumber Sandwiches (150 calories)
Refreshing and light, these classic finger mini sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, adding a touch of elegance to your spread. Easy to make ahead, they are a crowd-pleaser at tea parties and gatherings.
19. Grilled Almond Butter and Jam Sandwich (380 calories)
Creamy almond butter and fruit preserve on whole grain bread. Sprinkle with chia seeds.
20. Roast Beef and Cheddar Sandwich (420 calories)
Layer roast beef, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato and horseradish mayo on a whole grain roll.These make-ahead sandwich ideas are perfect for easy lunches at work or school.
Prep the fillings in advance and assemble sandwiches the night before or morning of. Pair with fresh fruit, veggies and a healthy side for a complete, balanced lunch.
I am a writer, editor, and publisher of Grillcuisines.com – an online blog dedicated to sharing grilling tips, accessories, and recipes to encourage more people to get outside and grill.
I’m off to find out the different types of grill foods, their seasons, and how to conduct outdoor cooking properly. I’ll also show you some of my grill-worthy cooking tools & accessories!
