The Desk Pantry: 5 Items That Can Help You Have a Better Lunch at Work

Don’t let your desk lunch get you down. Here are five pantry items to keep on hand to have a better lunch at work.

Save the kosher or fine salt for cooking and baking. Instead, keep a packet of something that feels a little more special, like Maldon,

fleur de sel

Whether you chow down on soups, salads, pasta, or rice bowls, a pinch of a fragrant spice blend can do wonders for your lunch. We especially love blends like za’atar and dukkah, which not only bring extra flavor to lunch, but also add a crunchy texture.

Sure, nut butter comes to the rescue for a quick sandwich, but we have bigger plans for this pantry staple. A spoonful of nut butter is the easy solution for quick peanut noodles, creamier soup, and a more interesting cup of plain yogurt.

This tiny citrus offers big rewards for a better office lunch. A small squeeze can be used to brighten up flat-tasting leftovers, make a quick salad dressing, and jazz up drinks like iced tea and water.

Get Inspired: Pack a Lemon in Your Lunch Bag

Lunch isn’t just about a nourishing meal — it’s the time to give yourself a pause to recharge in the middle of the day. One of our favorite candidates to get the job done is a small jar of sprinkles. Add them to your PB&J, stir them into your yogurt or oatmeal, or sprinkle them over apple wedges with nut butter. They’re a fun lunchtime twist that will bring a smile to your face.

Your turn! What pantry items do you keep in your desk for a better lunch?