It's not every day that you can get out for lunch at some trendy bistro. Some days, you get stuck at your desk or in the corporate jet. Well, know that you're not alone. Research shows that more Americans are either skipping lunch or brown-bagging it so that they can be more productive.

On the days that you can't find the time for a two-hour expense-account lunch, don't fret. We've got the next best thing: recipes that will put new zip in your zip-top bag. Imagine your coworkers' astonishment when you reach into your bag and produce Thai Shrimp-and-Pasta Salad or Caesar Chicken-Salad Sandwiches.

All of the following recipes are easy to do and can be made the night before. So when someone asks you where you're having lunch today, tell them you have reservations at the best place in town: Chez Desk.