These anti-inflammatory lunch recipes turn the task of reducing your cholesterol into a delightful endeavor. Packed with ingredients like dark leafy greens, legumes, and whole grains, these recipes combat persistent symptoms of chronic inflammation, such as digestive issues, joint pain, and mental fog. Moreover, each meal is low in saturated fats and offers a minimum of 6 grams of fiber per serving, not only promoting a sense of fullness but also aiding in boosting "good cholesterol." Flavorful and nutritious lunch options like Black Bean Fajita Skillet and Spicy White Bean & Spinach Salad can be prepared in just 15 minutes or less.

01 of 21: Black Bean Fajita Skillet VIEW RECIPE



You can often find presliced and ready-to-cook fresh vegetables in your grocer's produce section, saving you time during dinnertime prep. In this recipe, presliced fajita vegetables are sautéed with canned black beans and Southwest seasoning, resulting in a quick and easy Tex Mex-inspired meal. This recipe only requires three main ingredients, excluding basics like salt, pepper, and oil. Elevate your bowl by adding cheese, sour cream, or other delicious toppings according to your preferences.

02 of 21: Fiber-Packed White Bean & Spinach Salad Ready in Just 10 Minutes VIEW RECIPE



White bean salad with spinach, carrots, and almonds in a serving bowl.

Photo Credits: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Melissa Gray, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

In this light and refreshing salad, white beans are seasoned with ras el hanout, a Moroccan spice blend containing cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, ginger, cardamom, and ground black and red pepper. If you prefer a creamier texture, gently mash some of the beans as you combine the ingredients. This bean salad is served on a bed of lightly dressed spinach, which pairs well with the beans, as well as with grilled chicken or steak kebabs on another occasion.

03 of 21: Cabbage, Tofu & Edamame Salad VIEW RECIPE



Bite into this salad loaded with crisp red cabbage, edamame, bamboo shoots, and chow mein noodles for a satisfying crunch. Baked tofu, mandarin oranges, and sesame vinaigrette add a slight touch of sweetness to this dish.

04 of 21: Berry-Kefir Smoothie VIEW RECIPE

A photo of the Berry Kefir Smoothie.



Kickstart your morning with a probiotic boost by incorporating kefir into your smoothie. Feel free to utilize any available berries and nut butter in this healthy smoothie recipe.

05 of 21: Spicy Ramen Cup of Noodles VIEW RECIPE



Craft your own instant cup of soup at home with this vegetarian ramen recipe. Prepare multiple jars in advance for convenient and effortless weekday lunches.

06 of 21: Really Green Smoothies VIEW RECIPE



The blend of kale and avocado in this healthy smoothie recipe gives it an extra green hue. Chia seeds add heart-healthy fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

07 of 21: Cranberry-Walnut Chickpea Salad VIEW RECIPE



Swap chickpeas for chicken in this satisfying vegetarian main, ideal for lunch. The addition of cranberries provides a sweet-tart flavor, while toasted walnuts and celery contribute a delightful crunch. Serve over leafy greens or use as a sandwich filling.

08 of 21: Butternut Squash Soup with Avocado & Chickpeas VIEW RECIPE



Elevate a can of soup by introducing protein with chickpeas and infusing flavor with curry powder. Incorporating a bit of Greek yogurt will lend creaminess to the soup.

09 of 21: Strawberry-Chocolate Smoothie VIEW RECIPE

Indulge in the creamy richness of this strawberry-chocolate smoothie that effectively satisfies any chocolate cravings. It's so decadent that you might even consider it as a dessert.

10 of 21: Veggie Sandwich VIEW RECIPE

This vegan veggie sandwich, abundant in fiber and healthy fats, will keep you energized until dinnertime. Complement it with a side of fruit to stave off afternoon munchies. Feel free to substitute your preferred sandwich vegetables, sprouts, or greens.

11 of 21: Teriyaki Tofu Rice Bowls VIEW RECIPE

Utilizing shortcut ingredients from your local specialty grocery store, you can prepare a week's worth of high-fiber meals in around 15 minutes. Precooked wild rice packets can reduce prep time, and topping the bowls with prebaked tofu further expedites this quick meal-prep lunch.

12 of 21: Chopped Salad with Sriracha Tofu & Peanut Dressing VIEW RECIPE

Plan ahead for four days' worth of high-protein vegan lunches using just four simple ingredients from your local specialty grocery store. A salad mix abundant in vegetables serves as the foundation. Due to its robustness, you can dress these bowls up to 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.