Meal prepping is the hottest food trend, and for good reason. (We love when it’s trendy to be healthy!) Meal prepping is simply preparing food you’ll eat, in advance. So whether that’s smoothie freezer packs for breakfast or completely cooked dinners to get you through the week, meal prepping is all about what fits your lifestyle. It’s meant to save you time and sanity and can be a great tool for eating healthier.
There’s so many benefits to meal prepping other than its trendsetter status. It’s convenient, efficient, affordable, and eliminates the temptation to eat outside of your eating plan. We have everything you need to get started, including some yummy recipes!
What you need to get started
A plan
Do you want to focus on making your lunches for the upcoming week or cook meals for dinner each night? There are many online resources, including menus. Decide which meals you want to prep and then make your grocery list.
Food storage containers
Grab tupperware that is stackable and preferably the same size. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. Even cheap mason jars from the thrift shop are perfect for storing your food. Remember, meal prep is all about what works for your lifestyle.
Fridge or freezer space
Before you get started, make sure you have a space to store everything you’ll make. Do a quick once over and reorganize to make room for all your delicious new meals.
Time
Carve out an hour or two on a Sunday afternoon to prepare for the week. Put your favorite Netflix show on and get cooking. And just remember all the time you invest now will pay off throughout the week.
Sample Weekly Menu
We’ve outlined a breakfast, lunch, and dinner meal plan for our sample menu.
Breakfast
You can enjoy a healthy delicious breakfast, even when you’re running out the door in the a.m. These Muffin Tin Baked Eggs are perfect for when you’re on the go. With a little prep work this recipe will get you through the workweek with a yummy, healthy breakfast each morning.
Lunch
It’s so easy to grab a sandwich or burrito on your lunch break. But those dollars spent and calories consumed add up quickly. Prep your lunches for the week in advance and your wallet and waistline will thank you. These delicious Flat Iron Steak Fajita Bowls are full of protein to keep you satiated throughout the day and full of flavor. Double the recipe or make some with chicken breast to last even longer.
Dinner
Crockpot shredded chicken has to be one of the easiest meal preps ever. Throw your chicken, broth, and spices in a crockpot and move on with your day! You can use the chicken throughout the week for dinners like tacos, wraps, sandwiches, and soups. Just add fresh veggies to your meals each night. It’s so healthy and versatile!
There’s really no reason not to meal prep. Unless you like scrounging the cupboard for food each night! Meal prepping can help keep you on track with your nutrition goals and take the hassle of coking each morning and night.
