30+ Delicious Apple Lunch Recipes to Refresh Your Midday Meal

Apples are one of the most versatile and nutritious fruits to include in your meals, especially when packing lunch.

Their natural sweetness, crisp texture, and wide availability make them a fantastic ingredient to add flavor, crunch, and health benefits to a variety of dishes.

Whether you prefer sweet or savory meals, apples can seamlessly complement sandwiches, salads, wraps, and even snacks.

In this article, we bring you over 30 delicious apple lunch recipes that are easy to prepare, portable, and perfect for keeping your midday meal exciting and nourishing.

From fresh salads to hearty wraps and wholesome snacks, these recipes will inspire you to think beyond the typical lunch and incorporate the wholesome goodness of apples.

30+ Delicious Apple Lunch Recipes to Refresh Your Midday Meal

Incorporating apples into your lunch recipes is a simple yet effective way to enhance both flavor and nutrition.

The crisp texture and natural sweetness of apples bring balance to a variety of ingredients, whether paired with savory proteins, creamy cheeses, or crunchy nuts.

With over 30 recipes to choose from, you can easily find options that suit your taste and lifestyle.

These apple-inspired lunches are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them perfect for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

Try experimenting with these ideas and enjoy the fresh, satisfying crunch apples bring to your lunch table.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

This apple cinnamon oatmeal is a comforting and nutritious breakfast or lunch option that combines the natural sweetness of apples with warming cinnamon and hearty oats.

It’s easy to make, keeps well, and provides long-lasting energy, making it perfect for a satisfying meal.

• In a saucepan, combine rolled oats with water or milk and bring to a gentle boil.
• Add diced apples and a teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Simmer until the oats are soft and the apples have softened slightly.
• Sweeten with honey or maple syrup to taste.
• Serve warm, topped with nuts or seeds if desired.

Apple cinnamon oatmeal offers a balanced mix of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

The apples add a fresh twist to classic oatmeal, enhancing both flavor and texture, and the cinnamon lends a cozy aroma that makes every bite inviting and nourishing.

Apple and Brie Salad

Apple and brie salad is a fresh and elegant dish that combines crisp apple slices with creamy brie cheese and mixed greens.

It’s light yet satisfying and can be enjoyed as a lunch or a side dish, delivering a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

• Toss mixed salad greens with thinly sliced apples and chunks of brie cheese.
• Add toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
• Toss gently and serve immediately.

This salad highlights the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and tangy notes.

The apples provide crispness and natural sweetness that complement the rich creaminess of brie, making it a sophisticated and healthy meal option that feels special.

Apple Chicken Wrap

Apple chicken wrap is a tasty and wholesome lunch recipe that combines tender cooked chicken with crunchy apple slices, fresh greens, and a creamy dressing, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.

It’s convenient to prepare and easy to pack, making it an excellent choice for on-the-go meals.

• Dice cooked chicken breast and toss with diced apples and chopped celery.
• Mix in a light mayo or Greek yogurt dressing, seasoned with salt and pepper.
• Lay a whole wheat tortilla flat and layer the chicken mixture and fresh spinach leaves.
• Roll up tightly and slice in half.

The apple chicken wrap offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, with the sweetness of apples enhancing the savory chicken.

It’s a balanced meal rich in protein and fiber, ideal for a filling lunch that keeps you energized throughout the day.

Apple Walnut Salad

Apple walnut salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines crisp apple slices with crunchy walnuts and mixed greens.

It’s light yet filling, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lunch or a side dish that adds variety and flavor to your meal.

• In a large bowl, combine mixed salad greens, thinly sliced apples, and toasted walnuts.
• Add crumbled feta or goat cheese if desired for creaminess.
• Toss with a dressing made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Serve immediately or pack for lunch with dressing separate until ready to eat.

This salad balances sweet, tangy, and savory elements beautifully.

The apples provide a juicy crunch that complements the creamy cheese and crunchy nuts, creating a satisfying and colorful meal that is both wholesome and delicious.

Apple Pancakes

Apple pancakes are a delightful twist on a breakfast classic that can also serve as a comforting lunch.

Infused with tender apple pieces and warm spices like cinnamon, these pancakes are fluffy, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

• Prepare your favorite pancake batter and fold in finely chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Cook pancakes on a hot griddle until golden brown on both sides.
• Serve with maple syrup, yogurt, or fresh fruit on the side.

Apple pancakes offer a delicious way to incorporate fruit into your meal while satisfying your craving for something warm and comforting.

They’re perfect for packing into lunch boxes as a sweet and nourishing treat that feels like a special occasion.

Apple and Turkey Sandwich

Apple and turkey sandwich is a simple yet flavorful meal that combines lean turkey slices with crisp apple and fresh greens.

It’s an easy-to-make lunch that provides a satisfying balance of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness.

• Layer sliced turkey breast on whole grain bread.
• Add thin slices of crisp apple and fresh lettuce leaves.
• Spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise for added moisture and flavor.
• Top with the second slice of bread and cut into halves for easy eating.

This sandwich is a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy apples beyond just a snack. The combination of savory turkey and sweet apples adds complexity to the sandwich, making it both refreshing and filling—ideal for a well-rounded lunch.

Apple Quinoa Salad

Apple quinoa salad is a wholesome and vibrant lunch option that pairs the nutty flavor of quinoa with the crisp sweetness of fresh apples.

It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it both nourishing and satisfying.

• Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
• In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with diced apples, chopped cucumber, and fresh parsley.
• Toss with a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Optional: add crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.

This salad is a colorful and refreshing meal that balances fresh produce with hearty grains.

The apples add a juicy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft quinoa, making it perfect for a light yet filling lunch.

Apple and Cheddar Sandwich

Apple and cheddar sandwich offers a delicious blend of sharp cheddar cheese and sweet, crunchy apple slices.

It’s a simple and tasty lunch idea that can be enjoyed cold or grilled for a melty twist.

• Layer slices of sharp cheddar cheese and thin apple slices on whole grain bread.
• Add a spread of mustard or mayonnaise if desired.
• Close the sandwich and enjoy as is, or grill it in a pan until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted.

This sandwich combines savory and sweet flavors with a satisfying crunch and creamy texture.

It’s a balanced and flavorful choice that elevates the typical lunch routine.

Apple Yogurt Parfait

Apple yogurt parfait is a refreshing and nutritious lunch or snack option that layers creamy yogurt with fresh apple chunks and crunchy granola.

It’s quick to assemble and easy to pack, perfect for on-the-go meals.

• In a container or jar, layer plain or vanilla yogurt with diced apples and granola.
• Repeat layers as desired and finish with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Keep refrigerated until ready to eat.

This parfait combines protein, fiber, and natural sweetness in every spoonful.

The apples add freshness and texture, making it a light yet satisfying choice for a balanced lunch or midday snack.

Apple and Peanut Butter Toast

Apple and peanut butter toast is a quick and nutritious lunch option that pairs creamy peanut butter with crisp apple slices on whole grain bread.

It offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness to keep you energized.

• Toast a slice of whole grain bread until golden.
• Spread a generous layer of peanut butter over the toast.
• Top with thin slices of fresh apple.
• Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon or drizzle honey for extra flavor.

This simple yet satisfying dish combines creamy, crunchy, and sweet elements for a well-rounded meal.

It’s easy to prepare and pack, making it ideal for busy days when you need a wholesome lunch fast.

Apple and Ham Wrap

Apple and ham wrap combines savory sliced ham with the crisp sweetness of apples, wrapped in a soft tortilla for a tasty, handheld lunch.

This wrap is quick to make and offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

• Lay out a whole wheat tortilla.
• Layer thin slices of ham and apple on the tortilla.
• Add fresh spinach or lettuce leaves for extra crunch.
• Roll up tightly and slice in half before packing.

This wrap is a delicious way to add fruit to your savory lunch.

The apple’s sweetness complements the saltiness of ham, making it a balanced and satisfying meal that travels well.

Baked Apple Chips

Baked apple chips are a crunchy, healthy snack perfect for lunch boxes.

They’re naturally sweet and easy to make at home, offering a great alternative to processed snacks.

• Thinly slice apples using a mandoline or sharp knife.
• Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon if desired.
• Bake at low heat (around 90-100°C or 200°F) for 1-2 hours until crispy, flipping halfway through.

These apple chips provide a guilt-free crunch that satisfies sweet cravings without added sugars.

They’re perfect for packing into a lunch box for a tasty, wholesome snack.

Apple Turkey Salad

Apple turkey salad is a fresh and protein-packed lunch option that combines tender turkey with crisp apples and crunchy nuts.

It’s a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying meal.

• Dice cooked turkey breast and a crisp apple.
• Mix with chopped celery and toasted walnuts or pecans.
• Stir in a dressing made from Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Chill before packing for lunch.

This salad offers a delicious blend of savory and sweet flavors with a variety of textures.

The apples add a refreshing crunch that complements the tender turkey, making it a balanced and energizing choice for your midday meal.

Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Apple cinnamon muffins are a soft, moist treat packed with juicy apple pieces and warm cinnamon spice.

These muffins make a great lunch box addition or snack that feels like a comforting homemade dessert.

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin.
• Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon in a bowl.
• In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
• Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in diced apples.
• Spoon batter into muffin cups and bake until golden and set.

These muffins provide a wholesome way to enjoy apples with a touch of sweetness and spice. They are filling, portable, and loved by both kids and adults alike.

Apple and Cheese Platter

An apple and cheese platter is a simple yet elegant lunch box idea that pairs fresh apple slices with a variety of cheeses and nuts.

It’s easy to assemble and perfect for a light, no-cook meal.

• Slice apples into wedges and arrange on a plate or container.
• Add assorted cheeses like cheddar, brie, or gouda.
• Include nuts such as almonds or walnuts and some crackers for variety.
• Optional: add a small container of honey or fig jam for dipping.

This platter combines sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy elements for a balanced and enjoyable lunch. It’s a great way to mix flavors and textures with minimal effort.

Apple Spinach Smoothie

Apple spinach smoothie is a refreshing and nutrient-packed drink perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

Combining fresh apples with leafy greens and a creamy base, it’s easy to prepare and energizing.

• In a blender, combine chopped apples, fresh spinach leaves, a banana, and a cup of almond milk or yogurt.
• Add a spoonful of honey or maple syrup if desired for sweetness.
• Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Pour into a portable bottle and keep chilled until ready to drink.

This smoothie offers a great way to sneak in extra veggies along with the natural sweetness of apples.

It’s light, hydrating, and rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it an ideal lunch option on busy days.

Apple and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Apple and quinoa stuffed peppers are a wholesome and colorful lunch dish that balances sweet apples with hearty quinoa and savory spices.

It’s satisfying, easy to prepare ahead, and reheats well.

• Cook quinoa and mix with diced apples, chopped onions, black beans, and your favorite seasonings.
• Cut bell peppers in half and remove seeds.
• Stuff the peppers with the quinoa mixture.
• Bake in the oven until the peppers are tender.

This recipe combines a variety of textures and flavors, with the apples adding a sweet crunch to the filling.

It’s a nutritious, balanced meal that’s perfect for meal prep and lunch boxes.

Apple and Cottage Cheese Toast

Apple and cottage cheese toast is a simple and protein-rich lunch idea that pairs creamy cottage cheese with fresh apple slices on toasted bread.

It’s quick to assemble and offers a delicious balance of flavors.

• Toast a slice of whole grain bread until golden.
• Spread a generous layer of cottage cheese over the toast.
• Top with thin apple slices and sprinkle with cinnamon or a drizzle of honey.

This toast combines creamy, crunchy, and sweet elements for a satisfying meal.

It’s a great way to enjoy apples in a savory context while boosting your protein intake.

Apple and Turkey Pinwheels

Apple and turkey pinwheels are a fun and portable lunch option combining savory turkey, crisp apples, and creamy cheese rolled in a tortilla.

They’re easy to make and perfect for on-the-go meals.

• Spread cream cheese evenly over a whole wheat tortilla.
• Layer thin slices of turkey and apple on top.
• Roll the tortilla tightly and slice into bite-sized pinwheels.
• Pack chilled for lunch.

These pinwheels offer a delicious mix of flavors and textures—creamy, crunchy, and savory—that make lunchtime exciting and satisfying without much effort.

Baked Apple and Cinnamon Chips

Baked apple and cinnamon chips are a healthy and crunchy snack perfect for lunch boxes.

They’re naturally sweet with a hint of warm cinnamon, offering a guilt-free treat.

• Thinly slice apples using a mandoline or sharp knife.
• Lay the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon.
• Bake at low temperature (about 90-100°C or 200°F) for 1 to 2 hours until crisp, flipping halfway through.

These chips provide a crispy, flavorful alternative to processed snacks.

They’re easy to prepare ahead and travel well for a tasty crunch anytime.

Apple and Spinach Wrap

Apple and spinach wrap is a fresh, nutritious lunch that balances sweet apples with leafy greens and a creamy spread, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.

• Spread hummus or cream cheese over a whole wheat tortilla.
• Layer thin apple slices and fresh spinach leaves on top.
• Roll tightly and slice in half.

This wrap offers a refreshing combination of flavors and textures that’s light yet satisfying.

It’s a simple way to add more fruit and veggies into your lunch while keeping things tasty and convenient.

Apple and Almond Butter Sandwich

Apple and almond butter sandwich is a deliciously simple lunch option that pairs nutty almond butter with sweet, crunchy apple slices. It’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber to keep you full.

• Spread almond butter evenly over two slices of whole grain bread.
• Layer thinly sliced apples on one slice.
• Close the sandwich and cut into halves or quarters for easy eating.

This sandwich offers a great balance of creamy and crisp textures with natural sweetness.

It’s perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch that’s both satisfying and energizing.

Apple and Cheese Quesadilla

Apple and cheese quesadilla combines melted cheese with sweet apple slices in a warm, crispy tortilla. It’s a tasty, comforting lunch that’s quick to make and easy to pack.

• Place a whole wheat tortilla in a heated skillet.
• Add shredded cheddar cheese and thin apple slices on one half.
• Fold the tortilla over and cook until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden brown.
• Let it cool slightly, then cut into wedges.

This quesadilla offers a perfect mix of savory and sweet flavors, with gooey cheese and juicy apple providing a delicious contrast.

It’s a fun and filling meal for lunch or snack time.

Apple and Chicken Salad

Apple and chicken salad is a protein-rich lunch that pairs tender chicken with crisp apple and crunchy nuts.

It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and ideal for meal prep or packed lunches.

• Dice cooked chicken breast and a crisp apple.
• Mix with chopped celery and toasted walnuts or pecans.
• Combine with a dressing made from Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Chill before serving or packing.

This salad delivers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, with the apple adding sweetness and crunch that complement the savory chicken.

It’s a balanced, satisfying meal to keep you energized throughout the day.

Apple and Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Apple and peanut butter energy balls are a no-bake, nutritious snack that combines the natural sweetness of apples with protein-rich peanut butter and fiber-packed oats.

They’re perfect for a quick lunchbox treat or on-the-go energy boost.

• Grate a small apple and squeeze out excess moisture.
• Mix the grated apple with rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, and a pinch of cinnamon.
• Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and refrigerate until firm.

These energy balls offer a deliciously chewy texture and a balance of sweet and nutty flavors.

They’re easy to make ahead, portable, and provide sustained energy for busy afternoons.

Apple and Avocado Salad

Apple and avocado salad is a creamy and refreshing lunch option that pairs sweet, crisp apples with smooth avocado and crunchy greens.

It’s light, nutrient-dense, and easy to assemble.

• Toss mixed salad greens with diced apples and ripe avocado chunks.
• Add sliced cucumber and a handful of toasted nuts or seeds.
• Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

This salad delivers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—creamy, crunchy, and tangy—that makes for a satisfying and wholesome meal packed with vitamins and healthy fats.

Apple and Brie Crostini

Apple and brie crostini is an elegant and flavorful lunch or snack featuring creamy brie cheese paired with sweet apple slices on toasted baguette rounds. It’s simple to prepare and great for a light yet indulgent meal.

• Slice a baguette into thin rounds and toast until golden.
• Spread slices of brie cheese on the toasted bread.
• Top with thinly sliced apples and a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze.

These crostini offer a delicious contrast of creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements.

They’re perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your lunch while keeping it light and flavorful.

Apple and Chicken Wrap

Apple and chicken wrap is a flavorful and nutritious lunch option that combines tender chicken, crisp apples, and fresh greens, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.

It’s easy to make and perfect for a satisfying midday meal.

• Dice cooked chicken breast and mix with finely chopped apples and celery.
• Stir in a light dressing made from Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Spread the mixture onto a whole wheat tortilla and add fresh spinach leaves.
• Roll tightly and slice in half before packing.

This wrap offers a great balance of savory and sweet flavors, with the apples adding a refreshing crunch that complements the tender chicken.

It’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and travel-friendly.

Baked Apple Chips

Baked apple chips are a crunchy, naturally sweet snack that’s perfect for lunch boxes. They’re simple to prepare and a healthy alternative to processed chips or sweets.

• Thinly slice apples using a mandoline or sharp knife.
• Arrange slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
• Bake at a low temperature (around 90-100°C or 200°F) for 1-2 hours until crisp, flipping halfway through.

These chips offer a satisfying crunch with natural sweetness and warmth from the cinnamon.

They’re perfect for a guilt-free snack that’s easy to pack and enjoy anytime.

Apple and Walnut Salad

Apple and walnut salad is a fresh, light, and nutrient-packed meal that combines crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and mixed greens.

It’s easy to make and perfect for a wholesome lunch.

• Toss mixed salad greens with thinly sliced apples and toasted walnuts.
• Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess if desired.
• Drizzle with a simple dressing made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Toss gently and pack separately from the dressing if needed.

This salad delivers a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors, making it a satisfying and colorful addition to any lunch box.

Conclusion

From savory wraps and salads to sweet snacks and energy bites, apples offer incredible versatility in lunch recipes that suit all ages and preferences. The 30+ apple lunch recipes shared here demonstrate how this humble fruit can transform everyday meals into delicious, wholesome experiences. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick lunch on the go, adding apples is a smart choice to boost flavor, texture, and nutrition. Embrace these recipes as a way to make your lunches more vibrant and healthful, and discover new favorites that keep you energized throughout your day.