Winter lunch ideas to warm up your day

Jul 09, 2025 • 5 mins read

When the chill sets in, there’s nothing better than sitting down to a satisfying lunch that feels like a hug in a bowl (or on a plate). Whether you’re working from home or taking a break in the office, delicious winter lunches can turn even the coldest day into something to look forward to. At Bakers Delight, we believe fresh bread and simple ingredients can create endless possibilities. From easy hot lunch recipes to tips on prepping meals that stay warm, we’ve gathered everything you need for a satisfying winter lunch.

What is the best food to eat during winter?

The best food to eat during winter is hearty, warming and satisfying. Think protein-rich meals, plenty of vegetables, and fresh bread that makes every dish feel complete. From classic soups to hot sandwiches, a little planning goes a long way.

5 hot lunches to try this winter

When you’re wondering what to make for lunch in winter, think simple recipes that warm you from the inside out. A chicken meatball sub, a gooey pesto toastie, or a croissant piled high with fresh ingredients can turn lunchtime into something special. Add a hot drink and your day is instantly better. Here are a few of our favourite winter warmers.

Chicken Meatball Garlic Sub

Packed with tender chicken meatballs, rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, this sub is the ultimate cold-weather comfort. It takes only 10 minutes to prep, and is ready out of the oven in 40 minutes. Serve it on a White Long Roll for the perfect balance of crunch and softness.

Tip: Make the filling ahead of time for a quick winter lunch on the go.

Pesto & Sundried Tomato Toastie

A vibrant twist on a classic, this toastie layers basil pesto, sundried tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella between slices of our delicious Sourdough Vienna. Toast until golden and pair with a simple side salad for a delicious winter lunch in about 10 minutes.

Cheesy Beans & Toast

Upgrade classic beans on toast with this comforting recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Cannellini beans simmer in rich tomato passata and Italian herbs, then are topped with baby spinach and loads of melted mozzarella. Dip in toasted Sourdough Vienna for a warm, satisfying lunch.

Greek Lamb Pizza

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this Greek-inspired lamb pizza that takes just 25 minutes to make. Tender marinated lamb, sweet red onion, and melted mozzarella bake on a crisp White Pizza Base. Just before serving, it’s finished with fresh tomato, cucumber, rocket, and creamy homemade tzatziki for a deliciously savoury, tangy twist.

Loaded Croissant Sandwich

Take your sandwich game up a notch with this loaded croissant. Crispy, buttery Croissants are filled with turkey, smoky bacon, creamy avocado, and melted cheese. Fresh lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and a hint of red onion add crunch and brightness for a quick, satisfying lunch that’s ready to devour in 15 minutes.

How to prep food for winter

Prepping food in winter is all about staying warm, saving time, and making sure your meals feel comforting. Unlike summer meal prep, winter lunches need to hold heat and feel hearty enough to keep you energised. Here are some simple ways to prep food for winter:

Batch cook warm dishes like soups, stews, and curries that reheat easily.
Soups like creamy pumpkin or classic minestrone hold up beautifully in the fridge for several days.
Use insulated containers to keep meals hot until lunchtime.
Add hearty sides such as roasted vegetables, grain salads, or warm dips.
Choose ingredients that hold up well when reheated, like slow-cooked meats and sturdy vegetables.
Warm your bread separately in the oven to keep it crispy.

These easy winter lunch ideas help you enjoy delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen and can double as quick dinners on busy nights.

Making healthy comfort food without the fuss

Staying warm and nourished is simpler than you think. Many of your favourite hot lunch recipes can be made lighter without sacrificing flavour. Use wholegrain breads for extra fibre, and pile on the vegetables – think spinach in your toasties or extra tomato and capsicum on your pizza. Swap rich cheeses for lower-fat options or use a little less for balance. For example, try a wholegrain toastie filled with baby spinach, roast chicken, and a sprinkle of reduced-fat cheese for a lighter option that still feels indulgent. These small tweaks turn healthy winter lunches into everyday staples that still feel comforting.

Hot lunch ideas with a creative twist

A few simple tweaks can turn familiar lunches into something new and exciting. Try mixing in seasonal produce or unexpected flavours to keep things fresh all winter long. Add caramelised onion to your meatball sub for extra sweetness, or top your pizza with roasted pumpkin and feta for a delicious twist. Stir a little harissa paste or chilli flakes into your beans on toast for a warming kick. If you love experimenting, create your own warm lunch ideas by swapping proteins, layering different sauces, or trying new bread bases. Winter is the perfect time to get creative with flavours that comfort and surprise.

What kind of food do you like to eat on a cold day?

Everyone has their favourites when it comes to cold-weather foods. Whether you crave a toasted sandwich, a warm pizza fresh from the oven, or something simple like beans on toast, there’s no shortage of options. What’s your go-to winter lunch? Tag #BakersDelight on your go-to socials so we can see your favourite lunches. There’s no reason to let the cold weather dampen your lunchtime inspiration. With these winter lunch ideas, you can enjoy fresh, delicious meals that warm you up from the inside out. Need more ideas for your winter table? Explore our favourite comfort food recipes or get creative with soups to keep you toasty on those cold nights. Visit your local Bakers Delight to pick up the breads, rolls, and pastries that make every lunch feel a little more special.