Back-to-school lunches don't have to be boring: MasterChef-inspired pasta salad to the rescue

As the school bells ring and routines return, many of us are back to the same lunch dilemma: what to pack that's easy, delicious and a little more exciting than another tired peanut butter and jelly sandwich. But who says lunch has to be boring? With just a little prep and some fresh garden ingredients, you can elevate your lunch game and eat like a MasterChef, even from a lunchbox. Think ahead, think fresh, and think flavor-packed pasta salads that will make even your co-workers or classmates wish they could swap lunches. One of my favorites this season is my Herbed Tomato, Cucumber and Olive Orzo Salad with Feta Cheese: a colorful, flavorful dish that's as delicious cold as it is at room temperature. It's the perfect make-ahead meal that only gets better after a night in the fridge. Plus, it's packed with Mediterranean goodness, fresh herbs and tangy cheese, all the flavors of summer in one bite. Herbed Tomato, Cucumber, Olive Orzo Salad with Feta Cheese Ingredients: 2 cups cooked orzo 1/3 cup olive oil (add more if needed) 1/4 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Salt and pepper to taste 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or more to taste) 1 cup diced tomatoes 1 cup diced cucumbers 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil 1/4 cup chopped oregano Directions: Cook orzo in salted water according to package instructions; drain and allow to cool. Prepare your fresh ingredients while the orzo cools. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and toss gently. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve at room temperature or chill for a few hours – the flavors only get better the longer it sits. Whether you're packing lunch for yourself, your kids or prepping for the week ahead, this pasta salad is a fresh, flavorful reminder that meals can be both convenient and crave-worthy. So channel your inner MasterChef, raid the garden or farmers market, and make your lunch something to look forward to. After all, who wouldn't want to swap lunches with you? Kimberly Karver is a garden-to-table home cook and MasterChef top 10 finalist.