As a teacher, finding time to prepare a delicious and nutritious lunch can be quite a challenge. That’s why Trader Joe’s is your go-to spot for simple yet flavorful lunch options that are easy to throw together in between grading papers and lesson planning. Here are ten easy Trader Joe’s lunch ideas for teachers that will make your midday break something to look forward to.
1. Mediterranean Salad Bowl
Combine Trader Joe’s Balela (a chickpea and tomato salad), mixed greens, kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of Greek dressing for a healthy, filling Mediterranean salad bowl. This no-cook meal is ready in minutes.
2. Veggie Wrap
Spread Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip on a whole wheat tortilla, then add sliced avocado, shredded carrots, baby spinach, cucumber slices, and crumbled goat cheese. Roll it up and enjoy a fresh, satisfying veggie wrap.
3. Thai Style Tuna Salad
For a twist on classic tuna salad, mix canned tuna with Trader Joe’s Spicy Peanut Vinaigrette and chopped green onions. Serve over mixed greens or with whole grain crackers.
4. Southwest Quinoa Bowl
Combine cooked quinoa with Trader Joe’s Cowboy Caviar (a corn and black bean salsa) and shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein-packed Southwest-inspired bowl. Add diced avocado and a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
5. Caprese Sandwich
Take a ciabatta roll from Trader Joe’s bakery section and layer it with fresh basil leaves, mozzarella cheese slices, and thick tomato slices. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an easy Italian inspired sandwich.
6. Mini Hummus & Veggie Pita Pockets
Stuff mini pita pockets with Trader Joe’s Classic Hummus or any of their delicious hummus varieties. Add sliced veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a quick and healthy lunch.
7. Soup & Salad Combo
Pair Trader Joe’s versatile and tasty ready-to-eat soups such as their Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup or Harvest Chili with a simple mixed greens salad topped with your choice of dressing and a handful of nuts for crunch.
8. Asian-Inspired Salad Rolls
Use rice paper wrappers to make easy salad rolls filled with fresh, crunchy veggies and cooked shrimp or tofu. Dip it in Trader Joe’s Gyoza Dipping Sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
9. Turkey & Pesto Pinwheels
Spread pesto on a whole wheat tortilla, layer slices of Trader Joe’s Oven Roasted Turkey Breast, spinach leaves, and mozzarella cheese before rolling it up tightly. Slice into pinwheels for a fun and delicious lunch option.
10. Healthier Mac & Cheese
Turn your favorite comfort food into a healthier lunch option by combining cooked Barilla Protein+ elbow pasta with Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce. Add steamed broccoli florets to boost the nutritional value.
By having these ten easy Trader Joe’s lunch ideas on hand, teachers can maintain a healthy diet while still enjoying great-tasting food during their busy workdays. Say goodbye to sad desk lunches and hello to satisfying midday meals!
