Deliciously Simple Lunch Ideas for Your Weekend

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Weekend lunches should be a break from the ordinary, giving you the chance to enjoy something truly satisfying. Whether you’re whipping up a quick bite for yourself or preparing a more elaborate spread for friends, these weekend lunch recipes are all about combining ease and flavor. From hearty sandwiches to fresh salads, there’s something here for every craving.

Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad

A platter filled with fresh tomato salad.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

No matter the season, the ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad truly stands out. The oregano vinaigrette definitely plays a key role, but it might also be the clever technique that makes even store-bought tomatoes taste exceptional!

Get the Recipe: Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad

The Original Monte Cristo Sandwich

A plated meal featuring a Monte Cristo sandwich, halved and arranged around a small glass of red jam. Garnished with powdered sugar and surrounded by fresh grapes and melon slices, the sandwich displays layers of ham and turkey between thick slices of bread.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

The iconic Monte Cristo Sandwich has been delighting food lovers since it first hit the scene with its irresistible mix of flavors. Layered high like Cinderella’s castle, this sandwich is filled with rich, melty cheeses, savory ham, and tender turkey. It’s then dipped in batter and fried to crispy, molten perfection. In a word—epic!

Get the Recipe: The Original Monte Cristo Sandwich

Autumn Apple and Yogurt Parfaits

A clear parfait glass filled with a fruit and nut medley, including apple chunks, grapes, orange segments, and pecans, garnished with two cinnamon sticks. In the background, there is a checkered cloth and another similar glass partially visible.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

To whip up this nutritious Autumn Apple and Yogurt Parfait, simply combine chopped Gala apples, grapes, mandarins, and the season’s star fruit—the cranberry—with a light vanilla yogurt dressing. Think this doesn’t qualify as lunch? Think again! This blend of fruits and yogurt provides a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for a midday boost.

Get the Recipe: Autumn Apple and Yogurt Parfaits

Egg Salad Sandwiches with Cucumber Dill Spread – Southern Luncheonette Recipes

Egg salad and leafy greens on whole grain bread, sliced cucumber, and a whole radish.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average.

I’m always excited to enjoy Egg Salad Sandwiches with Cucumber Dill Spread. This southern-style sandwich skips the sweet pickle relish, opting for a refreshing twist with a smooth cream cheese blend.

Get the Recipe: Egg Salad Sandwiches with Cucumber Dill Spread

Sweet and Savory Chicken Salad

A plate of chicken salad with an array of fresh fruit including apple slices, blueberries, Ritz crackers, and tomatoes.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

This ‘Church Lady Level’ Sweet and Savory Chicken Salad is especially tasty with toasted pecans and sweet champagne grapes for that perfect balance of flavors.

Get the Recipe: Sweet and Savory Chicken Salad

Southern Chicken Salad with Pineapple – Southern Luncheonette Recipes

A croissant sandwich filled with chicken salad, leafy greens, and nuts is served on a plate. The sandwich is accompanied by fresh red cherry tomato slices and potato chips. The chicken salad is garnished with chopped parsley.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

This delicious Southern Chicken Salad recipe, featuring Carolina peanuts and sweet pineapple, is the perfect blend of savory and sweet. The crunchy peanuts add a unique Southern twist, while the juicy pineapple brings a refreshing brightness. Whether you’re craving a taste of home or looking to impress at your next picnic or potluck, this chicken salad is sure to hit the spot!

Get the Recipe: Southern Chicken Salad with Pineapple

Sweet Potato & Steak Salad with Carolina Mustard Vinaigrette

A plate of steak salad topped with fresh figs, blue cheese crumbles, and red onion slices, lightly dressed with a mustard vinaigrette. A colorful striped napkin and a fig are placed beside the plate on a wooden table.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

If you sometimes cringe at those frilly restaurant salads that feel more like rabbit food, this hearty Sweet Potato & Steak Salad with Carolina Mustard Vinaigrette is about to become your go-to. Filling and flavorful, it’s easy to whip up with minimal prep and is perfect for those nights you forget to marinate your steak.

Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato & Steak Salad with Carolina Mustard Vinaigrette

Southern Pimento Cheese Nachos

A skillet piled high with pimento cheese nachos.
Image credit: Not Entirely Average

Take your nachos to the next level with Southern Pimento Cheese Nachos. The creamy, tangy pimento cheese melts perfectly over the chips, delivering a rich and flavorful bite. Top them off with pickled jalapeños and crispy bacon bits for that extra touch of Southern charm.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pimento Cheese Nachos

New York Club Sandwich Recipe

Club sandwiches with crisps in a bowl.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average

Building a New York Club Sandwich is like putting together a bit of pure comfort food we all know and love. No need to scour for recipes when you’re short on time—just assemble a few of these with some chips and a quality half-sour pickle on the side. In no time, you’ll maintain your kitchen rock star status with these timeless classics!

Get the Recipe: New York Club Sandwich Recipe

A Recipe for Charleston Pickled Spiced Shrimp

A close-up of a visually vibrant dish featuring pieces of shrimp, red bell peppers, thinly sliced fennel, and fresh dill on a white plate. The dish is garnished with leafy greens, offering a fresh and colorful presentation.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Indulge in Charleston’s Pickled Spiced Shrimp served with grilled rye bread and sherry aioli. Popularized by Edmund’s Oast—a chic Southern restaurant in downtown Charleston—this dish combines the zesty flavors of pickled vegetables with tender poached shrimp for an unforgettable experience. It was so popular that after being retired, it made a comeback due to popular demand.

Get the Recipe: Pickled Spiced Shrimp

Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Turkey, Apple, and Fig Jam

Close-up shot of a tall, stacked sandwich with multiple layers of toasted bread, melted cheese, apple slices, greens, and other ingredients, creating a visually rich and appetizing appearance. The background is black, making the sandwich the focal point.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Savor the ultimate gourmet melt with this Grilled Cheese Sandwich made with smoked Gouda, lean turkey, crisp apple slices, and sweet fig jam. Whether you’re enjoying it as a game day snack or a delicious lunch treat, this sandwich is sure to be a winning combination of flavors!

Get the Recipe: Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Turkey, Apple, and Fig Jam

Easy French Dip Sandwiches with Picante Provolone

A close-up of a roast beef sandwich with caramelized onions and cheese in a bun, partially dipped in a bowl of brown gravy. French fries and a salt shaker are visible in the background.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Each bite of this tender, overstuffed French Dip Sandwich with Picante Provolone, dunked in creamy au jus, will quickly make it a go-to comfort food. With its fall-apart beef and bold flavors, it’s the perfect indulgence when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying!

Get the Recipe: Easy French Dip Sandwiches with Picante Provolone

A Tender and Crispy Baked Chicken Sandwich

Close-up of a crispy fried chicken sandwich with pickles, lettuce, and creamy coleslaw inside a soft, lightly toasted bun. The sandwich sits on a wooden surface, highlighting its rich textures and mouth-watering appeal.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average

Each bite of this tender, overstuffed French Dip Sandwich with Picante Provolone, dunked in creamy au jus, will quickly make it a go-to comfort food. With its fall-apart beef and bold flavors, it’s the perfect indulgence when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying!

Get the Recipe: A Tender and Crispy Baked Chicken Sandwich

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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