Last Updated on May 16, 2023
Are you tired of scrambling to figure out what to eat for every meal throughout the week? Do you find yourself resorting to fast food or unhealthy snacks because you simply don’t have the time or energy to cook? We’ve got you! With these 10 easy and delicious meal prep ideas, you can say goodbye to the stress of meal planning and hello to a week full of healthy and satisfying meals.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or a parent on the go, these meal prep options will save you time and keep you fueled throughout the week.
Get your apron, knife, and spatula because we’re entering the kitchen!
The Common Struggle of Meal Planning for Busy Individuals
Meal planning is a common struggle for busy individuals because it requires time, effort, and organization. Given the hectic schedules and multiple responsibilities of modern-day life, it can be challenging to set aside time to plan out meals, make grocery lists, and prepare food in advance.
Additionally, the temptation to resort to fast food or unhealthy snacks can be high when there is limited time and energy to devote to cooking. As a result, meal planning often falls by the wayside, leading to unhealthy eating habits and a reliance on convenience foods.
Read: Hidden Dangers: What to Avoid in Processed Foods
Benefits of Meal Prepping
Meal prepping offers several benefits, including saving time and promoting healthier eating habits. By planning meals and preparing food in advance, busy individuals can save time throughout the week by avoiding the need to constantly decide what to eat and cook each meal from scratch.
Additionally, meal prepping can promote healthier eating habits by allowing individuals to control their meals’ ingredients and portion sizes. This can lead to a higher intake of nutrient-dense foods and reduced consumption of processed or high-calorie foods.
Overall, meal prepping can simplify the process of healthy eating and support a busy lifestyle.
Read: How to Create a Balanced and Nutritious Meal Plan
Meal Prep 1: Breakfast Egg Muffins
Breakfast egg muffins are a delicious and easy meal prep option that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables, these muffins are a nutritious and satisfying way to start the day.
Here is a detailed breakdown of how to make breakfast egg muffins:
Ingredients:
- Eggs
- Diced bell pepper
- Diced onions
- Chopped cup spinach
- Cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs together with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the diced bell pepper, onion, and chopped spinach to the egg mixture and stir until combined.
- Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Spoon the egg and vegetable mixture evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each muffin.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving or storing them.
Storage:
Once cooled, these breakfast egg muffins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 30-60 seconds or until heated through.
Variations
Breakfast egg muffins can be easily customized to your liking. Add different vegetables, such as mushrooms, tomatoes, or zucchini, or switch up the cheese for a different flavor.
You can also add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham for extra protein. These muffins are a versatile meal prep option that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Meal Prep 2: Mason Jar Salads
Mason jar salads are a trendy and convenient meal prep option that allows you to pack a complete and nutritious salad in a portable container.
To make a mason jar salad, start with a wide-mouth mason jar and layer your ingredients in the following order:
- Dressing, hearty vegetables (such as cucumbers, carrots, or tomatoes), protein (such as grilled chicken or tofu), grains (such as quinoa or brown rice), and greens (such as spinach or kale).
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- When you’re ready to eat, shake the jar to distribute the dressing, and enjoy!
Meal Prep 3: Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables
Slow cooker meals are perfect for busy people who want to come home to a hot and nutritious meal at the end of the day.
This slow cooker chicken and vegetable recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep time.
Simply combine chicken breasts, diced potatoes, carrots, onion, and your favourite seasonings in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Once the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, shred the chicken with a fork and serve.
Meal Prep 4: Quinoa Bowls
Quinoa bowls are a nutritious and easy meal prep option that can be customized to your liking.
To make a quinoa bowl, start with a base of 15-minute cooked quinoa and add your favorite vegetables, protein, and toppings. Some delicious combinations include roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, avocado, grilled chicken, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes.
Nearly all of the ingredients can be prepared ahead of time and stored either collectively as the entire bowl or separately to prepare different meals throughout the week.
These bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Easy Meal Prep 5: Stir-Fry
Stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that can be made with a variety of vegetables and protein.
To make a stir-fry:
- Start by heating oil in a wok or large skillet.
- Add your protein (such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu) and cook until browned.
- Remove the protein from the pan and add your vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, and onions).
- Cook the vegetables until tender, and add the protein to the pan.
- Season with your favorite stir-fry sauce and serve with rice or noodles.
Easy Meal Prep 6: Turkey Chili
Turkey chilli is a hearty and healthy meal that can be made in large batches and enjoyed throughout the week.
Follow the steps below to make turkey chilli:
- Place brown ground turkey in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic and sauté until soft.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- Stir until combined, and let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced avocado.
This chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Meal Prep 7: Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are a simple and delicious meal prep option that can be made the night before and enjoyed for breakfast.
To make overnight oats, combine rolled oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and honey in a jar or container. Stir until combined and then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or nut butter.
Easy Meal Prep 8: Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a nutritious and flavorful meal prep option that can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to salads, bowls, or wraps.
To roast vegetables:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Chop your favorite vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly browned.
Meal Prep 9: Baked Chicken Breasts
Baked chicken breasts are a simple and versatile meal prep option that can be used in a variety of dishes throughout the week.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and season chicken breasts with your favorite spices. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked.
Let the chicken cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Meal Prep 10: Veggie and Hummus Wraps
This is a delicious and easy meal prep option that can be made in minutes.
To make a veggie and hummus wrap, spread hummus on a whole-grain tortilla and top with sliced vegetables like bell pepper, cucumber, and carrot. Roll the tortilla tightly and slice it in half.
These wraps can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you struggle with time management or finding healthy meal options during the week, meal prepping could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Taking a few hours out of your weekend to prepare meals for the upcoming week can save valuable time and stress during the workweek.
The ten meal prep ideas listed above are just a starting point. Don’t be afraid to customize the recipes to your liking by swapping out ingredients or adjusting the seasoning. Meal prepping is about finding what works for you and your taste preferences.
Give meal prepping a try and see its positive impact on your daily routine. Not only will it save you time and money, but it can also lead to a healthier and happier lifestyle. Remember to plan ahead, be creative, and have fun with it. Your future self will thank you.
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