Meal prepping has become a popular trend among those looking to save time, money and eat healthier. By taking the time to plan and prepare your meals in advance, you can easily stay on track with your nutrition goals and avoid the temptation of grabbing fast food or unhealthy snacks. If you’re new to meal prepping or looking to up your game, here are some tips on how to meal prep like a pro.
1. Plan your meals ahead of time
The key to successful meal prepping is planning. Take some time at the beginning of each week to sit down and decide what meals you want to make for the week ahead. Consider your schedule, the number of meals you’ll need to prepare, and any dietary restrictions you may have. Once you have a clear plan in place, make a shopping list and head to the grocery store to pick up all the ingredients you’ll need.
2. Invest in quality storage containers
Having the right containers is essential for successful meal prepping. Invest in a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate different types of foods and portion sizes. Look for containers that are microwave and dishwasher safe, stackable, and leak-proof to keep your meals fresh and organized. Glass containers are a great option as they are durable, environmentally friendly, and non-toxic.
3. Cook in bulk
Save time and energy by cooking large batches of food at once. Choose recipes that can easily be doubled or tripled, such as soups, stews, casseroles, and stir-fries. Once your meals are cooked, portion them out into individual containers and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Cooking in bulk not only saves time but also helps to reduce food waste and save money.
4. Use versatile ingredients
When meal prepping, it’s helpful to choose ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. For example, grilled chicken can be added to salads, wraps, pasta dishes, and more. By preparing a few versatile ingredients ahead of time, you can easily mix and match them throughout the week to create a variety of meals. Other versatile ingredients to consider include quinoa, roasted vegetables, beans, and sauces or dressings.
5. Prep your ingredients
Once you have all your groceries and containers ready, it’s time to start prepping your ingredients. Wash, chop, and portion out fruits and vegetables, cook grains and proteins, and assemble any sauces or dressings. By having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, you can quickly throw together a meal in minutes. Consider investing in tools such as a food processor, mandoline slicer, or immersion blender to make the prep process even easier.
6. Label and organize
To stay organized and avoid any confusion, label your containers with the date and contents of each meal. This will help you keep track of how long each meal has been in the fridge or freezer and ensure you’re eating the oldest meals first. Consider organizing your meals by type (breakfast, lunch, dinner) or by day of the week to make it easier to grab and go.
7. Stay flexible
While planning and prepping your meals in advance is key to success, it’s also important to stay flexible. Life happens, and your schedule may change unexpectedly. Be prepared to adapt and make adjustments as needed. Have some backup options on hand, such as canned soups, frozen dinners, or meal prep delivery services, to help you stay on track even when things get busy.
Meal prepping doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little planning and preparation, you can easily set yourself up for success and reach your nutrition goals. By following these tips on how to meal prep like a pro, you’ll be well on your way to saving time, money, and eating healthier meals every day. Happy prepping!
