Winter in Ontario means snowflakes, cozy sweaters, and the need for lunches that warm you up from the inside out.
Whether you’re working from home, heading to the office, or simply want to elevate your midday meal game, these hearty and nutritious lunch ideas are here to make the season a little more comforting and enjoyable.
Plus, they highlight Ontario’s winter bounty with modern, trendy twists that are practical and delicious. Let’s dig in!
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Root Vegetable Soup with a Kick
This soup celebrates Ontario’s winter root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Adding a touch of fresh ginger or a sprinkle of smoked paprika gives it a modern edge while keeping you toasty on even the frostiest days.
Why we love it: Packed with vitamins, this soup is the ultimate winter comfort food that’s easy to batch-cook and customize.
Tip: Swap sweet potatoes for squash or add lentils for extra protein. Serve with a hunk of sourdough bread for the ultimate cozy combo.
Ready to get started? Try this go-to recipe!
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Warm Kale Salad with Roasted Squash & Quinoa
Who says salads are just for summer? This warm version combines Ontario’s seasonal butternut squash, hearty kale, and nutty quinoa for a satisfying and nutrient-packed lunch. Toss it all together with a zippy maple-Dijon dressing to keep things fresh.
Why we love it: This dish is wholesome and surprisingly filling, making it perfect for those chilly days when you’re craving something lighter but still warming.
Tip: Crumble goat cheese on top or sprinkle pomegranate seeds for a festive touch. No quinoa? Try farro or wild rice instead.
Give this 5-star recipe a spin today!
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Ontario Apple Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions
A classic grilled cheese gets a major upgrade with thinly sliced Ontario apples and sweet caramelized onions. Sharp cheddar or brie takes the flavour to new heights, making this dish a little fancy but oh-so-easy to whip up.
Why we love it: It’s the perfect blend of nostalgic comfort and modern flair, with just enough sophistication to impress.
Tip: Add a dollop of grainy mustard or a handful of arugula for an extra kick. Pair it with tomato soup for the ultimate lunch duo.
Your family will go wild for this super simple version!
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Spiced Lentil & Spinach Stew
This hearty stew combines earthy lentils, Ontario’s winter spinach, and warming spices like cumin and sumac. It’s the kind of meal that sticks to your ribs without weighing you down.
Why we love it: High in protein and fibre, this stew is as nourishing as it is satisfying, perfect for those sub-zero afternoons.
Tip: Serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some diced Ontario turnips for extra depth.
Check out this easy recipe and cozy up!
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Shepherd’s Pie with a Sweet Potato Twist
This modern take on a classic swaps out regular mashed potatoes for creamy sweet potato topping, paired with a savoury filling of ground turkey or lentils and loads of winter veggies like carrots and peas.
Why we love it: A quintessential winter meal made healthier and lighter without losing the comforting vibes.
Tip: Make individual portions in ramekins for a fun and freezer-friendly option. Want extra crunch? Sprinkle some breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan on top before baking.
Here’s a popular one to try tonight!
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Winter Grain Salad with Citrus and Beets
This colourful salad features roasted Ontario beets, nutty farro, and bright citrus segments, making it a refreshing yet hearty option for winter lunches. Toss with a tangy vinaigrette for the perfect balance of flavours.
Why we love it: It’s a vibrant and nutrient-packed dish that highlights seasonal produce while keeping things light and satisfying.
Tip: Add some toasted walnuts or crumbled feta for extra texture and flavour. No farro? Substitute barley or quinoa.
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Hearty Buddha Bowl with Roasted Veggies and Tahini Drizzle
This trendy Buddha bowl features a base of quinoa (but can easily be swapped out for Ontario-grown barley or wild rice) and is topped with roasted winter carrots and cauliflower. Drizzle with a creamy tahini dressing to tie it all together.
Why we love it: It’s customizable, nourishing, and packed with textures and flavours that make winter eating exciting.
Tip: Sprinkle with hemp seeds or pomegranate arils for a superfood boost. Swap the tahini dressing for hummus or a miso-maple glaze if you’re feeling creative.
Check out this satisfying recipe and make it your own!
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Tuna Melt Quesadilla
Take your classic tuna melt to the next level by turning it into a quesadilla. Mix canned tuna with a touch of Dijon mustard, Greek yogurt, and Ontario cheddar. Spread it between whole-grain tortillas and grill to golden perfection.
Why we love it: This creative take on a classic is easy, cheesy, and perfect for those days when you need something quick yet comforting.
Tip: Add slice pickles or a handful of arugula for an extra punch of flavour. Pair with a side of tomato soup for a cozy meal.
Here’s a fun twist you’ll love!
About the Author
Alicia is a journalist and editor in digital and print media specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and wellness. She was previously the Editorial Director of Clean Eating and Vegetarian Times. Her work has also appeared in Hone Health The Edge, Yoga Journal, Women’s Running, and Oxygen, among others. In addition to being a content creator, she's an ISSA-certified nutritionist, certified personal trainer, and fitness studio owner in Toronto. Alicia loves spreading the word about helpful, science-backed health information, and she can be contacted via her website at aliciamtyler.com.
