24+ Easy Cheap Lunch Recipes That Save Money Without Sacrificing Flavor

Finding delicious and satisfying lunch ideas that won’t stretch your budget can sometimes feel like a challenge.

Whether you’re packing meals for work, school, or just looking to save money at home, affordable lunches don’t have to be boring or repetitive.

With a bit of creativity and simple ingredients, you can whip up a variety of tasty meals that are both nutritious and wallet-friendly.

In this article, we’ll explore over 24 cheap lunch recipes that prove eating well doesn’t mean spending a lot.

From hearty soups and flavorful wraps to quick stir-fries and classic sandwiches, these recipes will keep your midday meals exciting and easy on your budget.

24+ Easy Cheap Lunch Recipes That Save Money Without Sacrificing Flavor

Eating on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or nutrition.

The 24+ cheap lunch recipes shared here offer a wide range of options to suit different tastes and lifestyles while keeping costs low.

By using pantry staples, seasonal produce, and versatile ingredients, you can enjoy wholesome, homemade lunches every day without the hassle or expense of takeout.

With these recipes in your meal planning arsenal, you’ll not only save money but also gain the satisfaction of creating nourishing meals that fuel your day.

Give them a try and discover how affordable, delicious lunches can truly be!

Bean and Rice Burrito

Bean and rice burrito is a budget-friendly, filling lunch option that combines simple pantry staples into a tasty, nutritious wrap. It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prepping or grabbing on the go, offering a great balance of protein, fiber, and carbs without breaking the bank.

Ingredients:

• Cooked rice
• Canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• Salsa
• Shredded cheese
• Tortillas
• Olive oil or butter
• Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, lettuce

Instructions:

1. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice and black beans. Heat if needed.
3. Spread the rice and bean mixture onto each tortilla. Add salsa and cheese on top.
4. Fold the sides and roll into a burrito. Optionally, toast in a skillet with a bit of oil to crisp the outside.
5. Serve with optional toppings like sour cream or avocado slices.

Bean and rice burrito is a classic cheap lunch that combines wholesome ingredients to keep you energized throughout the day. Its versatility means you can customize it with whatever you have on hand, making it a perfect go-to recipe for saving money and time.

Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna pasta salad is an affordable and satisfying lunch recipe that mixes pantry staples like canned tuna and pasta with fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing. It’s quick to assemble, nutritious, and great for packing ahead or enjoying at home.

Ingredients:

• Pasta (such as rotini or elbow macaroni)
• Canned tuna (drained)
• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• Celery (chopped)
• Red onion (finely chopped)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: frozen peas or corn

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tuna, celery, and onion.
3. Add mayonnaise or Greek yogurt and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Tuna pasta salad is a cost-effective lunch that delivers protein and carbs with a fresh, creamy twist. It’s easy to prepare in bulk and stores well, making it a smart choice for busy weekdays or budget-conscious meal planning.

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable stir fry is an inexpensive, healthy lunch option packed with fresh or frozen veggies sautéed in a savory sauce. This recipe is quick, adaptable, and can be served with rice or noodles, making it a satisfying and affordable meal.

Ingredients:

• Mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen; such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
• Soy sauce
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (optional, minced)
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Cooked rice or noodles

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic (and ginger if using) and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
4. Pour soy sauce over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.

Vegetable stir fry is a versatile and budget-friendly lunch that makes the most of affordable produce and pantry staples. Its simplicity and quick cooking time make it ideal for busy days when you want something nutritious, flavorful, and easy on your wallet.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a wholesome, cheap lunch recipe that’s both hearty and nourishing. Using affordable lentils and simple vegetables, this soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying option that keeps you full and energized throughout the afternoon.

Ingredients:

• Dry lentils (rinsed)
• Onion (chopped)
• Carrots (diced)
• Celery (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Vegetable broth or water
• Olive oil
• Bay leaf
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
2. Add lentils, bay leaf, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender (about 25-30 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Lentil soup is a budget-friendly lunch that delivers warmth and nutrition in every spoonful. It’s easy to make in large batches, freezes well, and offers a comforting meal that’s perfect for cooler days or when you need a quick, affordable lunch.

Egg Fried Rice

Egg fried rice is an inexpensive and quick lunch recipe that turns leftover rice into a delicious, protein-rich meal. It’s versatile, easy to customize with whatever veggies or sauces you have on hand, and comes together in minutes, making it a perfect budget-friendly option.

Ingredients:

• Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• Eggs
• Green onions (chopped)
• Soy sauce
• Frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• Vegetable oil or sesame oil
• Garlic (minced)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add frozen peas and carrots, cook until heated through.
3. Push veggies to the side and scramble eggs in the pan.
4. Add rice and soy sauce, stirring to combine everything evenly.
5. Toss in green onions and cook for another minute before serving.

Egg fried rice is a cheap lunch favorite that’s quick to prepare and highly adaptable. It’s a great way to reduce food waste by using leftover rice and veggies while still delivering a tasty, filling meal.

Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Chickpea salad sandwich is a nutritious and affordable lunch recipe that offers a delicious twist on the traditional sandwich. Mashed chickpeas create a creamy, protein-packed filling that pairs perfectly with crunchy veggies and fresh bread for a satisfying midday meal.

Ingredients:

• Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• Mayonnaise or vegan mayo
• Celery (chopped)
• Red onion (finely chopped)
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Bread or sandwich rolls
• Lettuce or spinach leaves

Instructions:

1. Mash chickpeas in a bowl until mostly smooth but still a bit chunky.
2. Stir in mayonnaise, celery, onion, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the chickpea salad onto bread slices and add lettuce or spinach.
4. Assemble the sandwich and serve immediately.

Chickpea salad sandwich is an economical and tasty lunch that’s perfect for quick preparation and easy transport. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional deli meats and packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a healthy and wallet-friendly choice.

Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is an affordable, vibrant lunch recipe that combines pasta with fresh or frozen vegetables tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce. It’s simple to prepare, colorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending much.

Ingredients:

• Pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• Mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and peas)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables and cook until tender but still crisp.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables, season with salt and pepper.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Pasta primavera is a fresh, budget-friendly lunch that’s easy to customize with whatever veggies are in season or on sale. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a light yet satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and gentle on the wallet.

Potato and Egg Hash

Potato and egg hash is a comforting, low-cost lunch recipe that uses simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, and eggs to create a hearty and filling dish. It’s versatile, quick to cook, and perfect for using up leftover potatoes or veggies.

Ingredients:

• Potatoes (diced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Eggs
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: bell peppers, herbs, or hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet and cook diced potatoes until they start to soften.
2. Add onions (and bell peppers if using) and continue cooking until potatoes are crispy and onions are translucent.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Make wells in the hash and crack eggs into each. Cover and cook until eggs are done to your liking.
5. Serve hot with optional herbs or hot sauce.

Potato and egg hash is a cheap and satisfying lunch that combines basic pantry ingredients into a flavorful meal. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something quick, hearty, and budget-conscious.

Vegetable Quesadilla

Vegetable quesadilla is an easy, inexpensive lunch recipe where tortillas are filled with sautéed veggies and melted cheese, then grilled to crispy perfection. It’s a quick, tasty way to enjoy a nutritious meal using affordable ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Flour tortillas
• Mixed vegetables (such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Olive oil or butter
• Salsa or sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté vegetables until tender.
2. Place a tortilla in a separate pan over medium heat. Sprinkle cheese evenly on one half of the tortilla.
3. Add sautéed vegetables on top of the cheese, then fold the tortilla in half.
4. Cook until the tortilla is golden brown and cheese is melted, flipping once.
5. Slice and serve with salsa or sour cream if desired.

Vegetable quesadilla is a budget-friendly lunch that’s both quick and flavorful. It’s perfect for using up leftover veggies and makes a delicious, cheesy meal that won’t stretch your grocery budget.

Black Bean Tacos

Black bean tacos are a simple, affordable lunch option packed with protein and fiber. Using canned black beans and basic spices, these tacos are easy to assemble and customize with your favorite toppings like salsa, avocado, or cheese.

Ingredients:

• Canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• Taco seasoning or cumin and chili powder
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, avocado

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add black beans and taco seasoning (or spices). Cook until heated through and fragrant.
2. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
3. Spoon the seasoned beans onto tortillas and add desired toppings.
4. Fold tacos and serve immediately.

Black bean tacos are a cost-effective, flavorful lunch that’s both nutritious and quick to prepare. They’re perfect for busy days or when you want a delicious, meatless meal that’s easy on your wallet.

Chickpea Curry

Chickpea curry is an economical and flavorful lunch recipe that combines canned chickpeas with fragrant spices and a creamy tomato-based sauce. It’s easy to make in one pot and pairs well with rice or flatbread for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic and ginger (minced)
• Curry powder or garam masala
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Coconut milk or yogurt (optional)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pot and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and ginger and cook briefly.
2. Stir in curry powder and cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and chickpeas. Simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
4. Stir in coconut milk or yogurt if using. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot over rice or with flatbread.

Chickpea curry is a cheap, nourishing lunch that bursts with warm spices and comforting flavors. It’s perfect for meal prep and great for anyone looking to enjoy a filling, vegetarian dish on a budget.

Tuna Melt

Tuna melt is a classic, budget-friendly lunch recipe that combines canned tuna with cheese and toasted bread for a warm, satisfying sandwich. It’s quick to prepare and makes a comforting meal with pantry staples.

Ingredients:

• Canned tuna (drained)
• Mayonnaise
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Bread slices
• Butter
• Optional: diced celery or pickles for crunch

Instructions:

1. Mix tuna with mayonnaise and optional diced celery or pickles.
2. Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
3. Place tuna mixture on the unbuttered side of one slice, then top with shredded cheese.
4. Cover with the second slice, buttered side out.
5. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until bread is golden and cheese is melted, flipping once.
6. Serve hot.

Tuna melt is a quick, wallet-friendly lunch that offers a warm and cheesy twist on a traditional tuna sandwich. It’s ideal for busy weekdays or anytime you want an easy meal that feels homemade and satisfying.

Veggie Stir-Fry

Veggie stir-fry is an affordable and quick lunch recipe that highlights colorful vegetables sautéed in a simple soy sauce-based glaze. It’s a versatile dish that can be served over rice or noodles and customized with whatever veggies you have on hand.

Ingredients:

• Mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• Garlic and ginger (minced)
• Soy sauce
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Cooked rice or noodles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Toss in mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
4. Pour in soy sauce and stir to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles if desired.

Veggie stir-fry is a budget-friendly lunch that’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and full of vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for using up leftover vegetables and makes a light yet satisfying meal any day of the week.

Baked Potato with Beans

Baked potato with beans is a simple, inexpensive lunch recipe that combines a fluffy baked potato with a hearty topping of seasoned beans. It’s filling, nutritious, and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a satisfying midday meal.

Ingredients:

• Large baking potato
• Canned baked beans or black beans
• Shredded cheese (optional)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Bake potato in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes until soft.
2. Heat beans in a saucepan until warmed through.
3. Slice the baked potato open and fluff the inside with a fork.
4. Top with heated beans and sprinkle cheese if using. Add sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Baked potato with beans is an economical, comforting lunch that delivers protein and fiber with minimal prep. It’s a great way to enjoy a warm, hearty meal without spending much.

Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna pasta salad is an easy, affordable lunch recipe that combines cooked pasta with canned tuna, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep or packing for lunch on the go.

Ingredients:

• Cooked pasta (such as rotini or elbow macaroni)
• Canned tuna (drained)
• Cucumber (diced)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tuna pasta salad is a refreshing, budget-friendly lunch that’s easy to prepare ahead and enjoy cold. It offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies, making it a wholesome meal perfect for warm days or quick lunches.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a hearty and inexpensive lunch recipe that’s packed with protein and fiber. Using basic pantry staples like dried lentils, vegetables, and spices, this soup is warming, nutritious, and easy to make in one pot.

Ingredients:

• Dried lentils (rinsed)
• Onion, carrot, and celery (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Vegetable broth or water
• Olive oil
• Bay leaf, cumin, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
2. Add lentils, broth, bay leaf, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Lentil soup is an affordable, comforting lunch that’s perfect for meal prep and cold days. It’s filling, nutritious, and made with simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.

Egg Salad Sandwich

Egg salad sandwich is a classic, budget-friendly lunch recipe that combines hard-boiled eggs with creamy mayo and simple seasonings. It’s quick to prepare and makes a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• Hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
• Mayonnaise
• Mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Bread slices or sandwich rolls

Instructions:

1. Mix chopped eggs with mayonnaise, a little mustard if desired, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the egg salad onto bread slices or sandwich rolls.
3. Add lettuce or tomato slices if desired.
4. Serve immediately or chill for a cold sandwich.

Egg salad sandwich is a simple, inexpensive lunch that’s perfect for a quick bite or picnic. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy eggs in a different form.

Fried Rice

Fried rice is a budget-friendly lunch recipe that transforms leftover rice into a flavorful dish with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for using up odds and ends in your fridge.

Ingredients:

• Cooked rice (preferably cold)
• Mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
• Eggs
• Soy sauce
• Oil for frying
• Green onions (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan or wok and scramble the eggs. Remove and set aside.
2. Add more oil and stir-fry the vegetables until tender.
3. Add cooked rice and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
4. Return scrambled eggs to the pan and mix well.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve hot.

Fried rice is an economical, tasty lunch that’s great for meal prep or quick dinners. It’s a versatile dish that lets you repurpose leftover rice and veggies into a satisfying meal.

Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is an affordable and fresh lunch recipe that combines simple pasta with sautéed seasonal vegetables and a light garlic and olive oil sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for a healthy, budget-conscious meal.

Ingredients:

• Pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• Mixed fresh vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add vegetables and cook until tender.
3. Toss cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
4. Serve warm.

Pasta primavera is a vibrant, inexpensive lunch that highlights fresh veggies and simple ingredients. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious, colorful meal without spending much time or money.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic, budget-friendly lunch pairing that’s both comforting and quick to prepare. Using basic pantry ingredients, this meal satisfies cravings with warm, gooey cheese and tangy tomato flavors.

Ingredients:

• Bread slices
• Cheese slices (cheddar or your favorite melting cheese)
• Butter
• Canned tomato soup or homemade tomato soup ingredients

Instructions:

1. Prepare grilled cheese sandwiches by buttering bread slices, placing cheese between them, and cooking in a skillet until golden brown and melted.
2. Heat canned tomato soup according to package instructions or make your own by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, onion, and herbs.
3. Serve the grilled cheese sandwiches alongside the warm tomato soup.

This pairing is a low-cost, satisfying lunch perfect for chilly days or when you want something simple yet nostalgic. It offers a balance of creamy cheese and flavorful soup with minimal fuss.

Vegetable Quesadilla

Vegetable quesadilla is a quick, cheap lunch recipe that combines tortillas with cheese and sautéed vegetables for a tasty, handheld meal. It’s easy to customize and perfect for a light yet filling lunch.

Ingredients:

• Flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
• Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, corn)
• Olive oil
• Salsa (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté mixed vegetables until soft.
2. Place one tortilla in the pan, sprinkle cheese evenly over it, and top with sautéed vegetables.
3. Cover with a second tortilla and cook until the bottom is golden and cheese is melted, then flip carefully and cook the other side.
4. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa if desired.

Vegetable quesadillas are a versatile, affordable lunch option that’s quick to prepare and satisfying. They’re great for using up leftover veggies and provide a delicious combination of melted cheese and savory fillings.

Chickpea Curry

Chickpea curry is a budget-friendly lunch recipe that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make with pantry staples like canned chickpeas and spices. It’s a wholesome dish that can be served over rice or with flatbread for a filling meal.

Ingredients:

• Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• Onion and garlic (chopped)
• Tomato paste or diced tomatoes
• Coconut milk or water
• Curry powder or garam masala
• Oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Stir in curry powder and cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add chickpeas, tomato paste, and coconut milk (or water). Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot over rice or with flatbread.

Chickpea curry is an inexpensive, nutritious lunch that’s rich in protein and flavor. It’s perfect for meal prepping or enjoying a warm, comforting meal without a lot of fuss.

Black Bean Tacos

Black bean tacos are a cheap and easy lunch option that combines protein-rich beans with fresh toppings in a soft or crunchy taco shell. This recipe is simple, filling, and customizable with ingredients you likely have on hand.

Ingredients:

• Canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• Taco seasoning
• Tortillas (corn or flour)
• Lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese (optional toppings)
• Salsa or hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Heat black beans in a skillet with taco seasoning until warm and well combined.
2. Warm tortillas in a pan or microwave.
3. Fill tortillas with seasoned beans and top with lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and salsa as desired.
4. Serve immediately.

Black bean tacos are an affordable, tasty lunch that’s easy to put together and packed with fiber and protein. They make a great meatless meal option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Egg Fried Rice

Egg fried rice is a budget-friendly lunch recipe that transforms leftover rice into a tasty, protein-packed dish with eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for using pantry and fridge staples.

Ingredients:

• Cooked rice (preferably cold)
• Eggs
• Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• Soy sauce
• Oil for frying
• Green onions (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and scramble the eggs until cooked. Remove and set aside.
2. Add vegetables to the pan and sauté until tender.
3. Add rice and soy sauce, stirring to combine well.
4. Return eggs to the pan and mix thoroughly. Garnish with green onions if desired.
5. Serve hot.

Egg fried rice is a quick, economical lunch that’s flavorful and easy to prepare. It’s a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a satisfying meal with a good balance of protein and veggies.

Conclusion

Affordable lunches don’t have to be dull or uninspired. The recipes we’ve highlighted offer quick, easy, and budget-conscious solutions for anyone looking to enjoy flavorful meals without overspending. By incorporating simple cooking techniques and ingredients that are easy to find and prepare, you can effortlessly mix and match meals that keep lunchtime fresh and satisfying. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or cooking for your family, these cheap lunch ideas provide the perfect blend of convenience, taste, and nutrition. Start experimenting with these recipes and transform your midday meals into something special — all while staying budget-savvy.