If you are planning a corporate event, one of the key decisions you need to make is what kind of food to serve. One option that has become increasingly popular in recent years is boxed lunches. Boxed lunches are a great way to provide your guests with a delicious meal that is easy to serve and eat.
In this article, we will explore 10 different boxed lunch ideas that are sure to satisfy your guests’ taste buds.
Definition of boxed lunch
A boxed lunch is a pre-packaged meal that typically includes a sandwich or wrap, a side dish, and a dessert. The meal is usually packaged in a box or container and is meant to be eaten on the go.
Importance of serving boxed lunches at corporate events
Serving boxed lunches at corporate events has many benefits. It is an easy and convenient way to provide your guests with a meal that they can enjoy while networking or attending presentations. Boxed lunches also help to ensure that everyone gets a meal, even if they have dietary restrictions or preferences.
Benefits of serving delicious boxed lunches
By serving delicious boxed lunches, you can make a lasting impression on your guests. A well-planned and executed meal can leave a positive impression on your attendees and make your event more memorable.
Planning Your Boxed Lunch Menu
Understanding your guests’ dietary needs and preferences
Before choosing the type of boxed lunch to serve, it is important to consider your guests’ dietary needs and preferences. This will help you to ensure that everyone has a meal they can enjoy.
Choosing the right type of boxed lunch for your event
There are many different types of boxed lunches to choose from, including classic options like sandwiches and salads, as well as more exotic choices like international cuisine.
Selecting the right vendor for your boxed lunches
Choosing the right vendor is key to ensuring that your boxed lunches are delicious and high-quality. Be sure to research vendors and read reviews before making a decision to choose Boxed Lunch Catering.
1. The Classic Boxed Lunch
Traditional sandwich options
Classic sandwich options include turkey and cheese, ham and Swiss, and roast beef. These sandwiches are typically served on bread or a roll and can be customized with condiments and toppings.
Sides and snacks to include
Classic boxed lunches typically include chips, a piece of fruit, and a cookie or brownie for dessert.
Beverage options
Beverage options for a classic boxed lunch can include soda, water, or juice.
2. The Healthy Boxed Lunch
Fresh salad options
Healthy boxed lunches can include a variety of fresh salads, such as Caesar salad, Greek salad, or spinach salad. These salads can be topped with a variety of proteins, such as chicken or tofu.
Lean protein choices
Lean protein options for a healthy boxed lunch include grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu.
Fruit and vegetable sides
Healthy sides can include raw vegetables like carrots and celery, as well as fresh fruit like berries and grapes.
Hydration options
Beverage options for a healthy boxed lunch can include water, flavored water, or iced tea.
3. The International Boxed Lunch
Popular international cuisines
International boxed lunches can include a variety of cuisines, such as Italian, Mexican, or Asian.
Authentic food options
Authentic food options for an international boxed lunch can include dishes like sushi rolls, tacos, or pasta.
Appropriate sides and beverages
Sides and beverages should be chosen to complement the flavors of the main dish. For example, a Mexican boxed lunch could include chips and salsa, and a margarita or Mexican soda for a beverage.
4. The Vegetarian and Vegan Boxed Lunch
Creative plant-based sandwich options
Vegetarian and vegan boxed lunches can include Creative plant-based sandwich options
Vegetarian and vegan boxed lunches can include a variety of plant-based sandwich options, such as hummus and roasted vegetable wraps or avocado and tomato sandwiches.
Protein alternatives to meat
Protein alternatives to meat can include tofu, tempeh, or plant-based protein patties.
Vegan and vegetarian sides and snacks
Vegan and vegetarian sides can include roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or veggie chips. Vegan and vegetarian snacks can include fresh fruit, nuts, or vegan trail mix.
Plant-based hydration options
Beverage options for a vegan and vegetarian boxed lunch can include water, herbal tea, or plant-based milk.
5. The Gluten-Free Boxed Lunch
Understanding gluten intolerance
Gluten-free boxed lunches are important for guests with gluten intolerance. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye and can cause digestive issues in some people.
Gluten-free sandwich options
Gluten-free sandwich options can include lettuce wraps, rice cakes with hummus or almond butter, or gluten-free bread.
Appropriate sides and beverages
Gluten-free sides and beverages can include gluten-free chips, fresh fruit, and gluten-free cookies. Beverage options can include water, sparkling water, or gluten-free juice.
6. The Paleo Boxed Lunch
Understanding the paleo diet
The paleo diet is based on the idea of eating like our ancestors, focusing on whole foods and avoiding processed foods.
Paleo-friendly sandwich options
Paleo-friendly sandwich options can include lettuce wraps, sweet potato toast, or a paleo wrap made from almond flour.
Paleo-friendly sides and snacks
Paleo-friendly sides and snacks can include raw vegetables, nuts, or fruit. Paleo snacks can include paleo energy balls or paleo granola.
Hydration options
Beverage options for a paleo boxed lunch can include water, coconut water, or herbal tea.
7. The Keto Boxed Lunch
Understanding the keto diet
The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that encourages the body to burn fat for fuel.
Keto-friendly sandwich options
Keto-friendly sandwich options can include lettuce wraps, low-carb tortillas, or keto bread made with almond flour and coconut flour.
Keto-friendly sides and snacks
Keto-friendly sides and snacks can include raw vegetables, cheese, or hard-boiled eggs. Keto snacks can include keto fat bombs or keto granola.
Hydration options
Beverage options for a keto-boxed lunch can include water, sparkling water, or unsweetened iced tea.
8. The Low-Carb Boxed Lunch
Understanding the low-carb diet
The low-carb diet is similar to the keto diet but allows for a slightly higher carb intake.
Low-carb sandwich options
Low-carb sandwich options can include lettuce wraps, low-carb tortillas, or low-carb bread made with almond flour.
Low-carb sides and snacks
Low-carb sides and snacks can include raw vegetables, cheese, or hard-boiled eggs. Low-carb snacks can include low-carb energy balls or low-carb granola.
Hydration options
Beverage options for a low-carb boxed lunch can include water, sparkling water, or unsweetened iced tea.
9. The Gourmet Boxed Lunch
High-end sandwich options
Gourmet boxed lunches can include high-end sandwich options, such as grilled chicken paninis or roasted vegetable wraps with goat cheese.
Gourmet sides and snacks
Gourmet sides and snacks can include artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, or specialty dips with fresh vegetables.
Beverage options
Beverage options for a gourmet boxed lunch can include sparkling water, gourmet sodas, or craft beers.
10. The Build-Your-Own Boxed Lunch
Options for customizing boxed lunches
Build-your-own boxed lunches allow guests to choose their own sandwiches, sides, and snacks from a variety of options.
Benefits of letting guests build their own Lunch
By allowing guests to build their own lunch, you can accommodate different dietary needs and preferences, and ensure that everyone gets a meal they enjoy.
Appropriate sides and beverages
Sides and beverages for a build-your-own boxed lunch can vary depending on the options offered but should include a variety of choices to accommodate different tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a boxed lunch?
A boxed lunch is a pre-packaged meal that typically includes a sandwich or wrap, a side dish, and a dessert. The meal is usually packaged in a box or container and is meant to be eaten on the go.
How should I choose the right type of boxed lunch for my event?
Consider your guests’ dietary needs and preferences, as well as the theme and style of your event. Research different options and vendors to find the best fit for your event.
What are the benefits of serving boxed lunches at corporate events?
Boxed lunches are easy and convenient, and can accommodate different dietary needs and preferences. They also help to ensure that everyone gets a meal, even if they have dietary restrictions.
Can boxed lunches be customized to meet specific dietary needs?
Yes, many vendors offer customizable options to meet specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegan options.
How do I select the right vendor for my boxed lunches?
Research different vendors and read reviews to ensure that they offer high-quality, delicious boxed lunches. Consider their level of experience and their ability to accommodate different dietary needs.
What is the average cost of a boxed lunch?
The cost of a boxed lunch can vary depending on the vendor and the options offered. Expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $30 per boxed lunch.
How do I ensure that boxed lunches stay fresh during the event?
Work with your vendor to ensure that boxed lunches are delivered and stored properly. Consider providing refrigeration or ice packs if necessary.
How do I dispose of boxed lunch packaging after the event?
Provide clearly labeled disposal containers and work with your venue to ensure that packaging is disposed of properly.
Conclusion
Serving boxed lunches at corporate events is a convenient and customizable option that can accommodate different dietary needs and preferences. With so many options to choose from, you can provide your guests with a delicious and memorable meal that is sure to impress.
So next time you are planning a corporate event, consider serving one of these 10 delicious boxed lunch options.
