These days, eating heathy is more important than ever. But, sometimes a busy lifestyle can make it difficult to maintain a nutritious diet. Given these points, you it’s advantageous to have simple steps to meal prep.
Although many people want to eat healthy, they eventually fall prey to quick and easy fast food solutions. And getting caught between nutrition and time is common for many of us. That’s why having simple steps to meal prep make it easier to avoid unhealthy food choices. Read on for a few tasty suggestions.
01. Stock Your Supply
The first one of simple steps to meal prep is making sure you have all the ingredients. Keep a well-stocked supply of nutritionally balanced food and you’re on your way to prep for success. If you can afford it, pre-cut fruits and veggies are a great timesaver.
It’s also a good idea to shop for a variety of proteins and whole grains that are easy to prepare. Choose foods that can easily be mixed, matched, and paired together. After that, half of your work is already done by the time you leave the grocery store.
02. Invest In Quality Storage
You’ll need storage containers. Often overlooked, quality containers (preferably BPA-free) can make meal prep easier and tastier. Consider investing in storage that is reusable and can easily go from freezer to microwave.
Also, it’s a good idea to use those that have multiple spaces. This way, you can divide your food into its designated sections, helping you balance your portions. In a divided container, you can keep dressing and dips separate from salads and veggies. You can avoid unappetizing sogginess and track how much topping you’re actually consuming.
03. Plan Your Menu
Simple steps to meal prep doesn’t amount to much if you don’t plan out your meals. Give yourself some variety and you’re less likely to give up on your goals. Plan to pair your proteins with fruits, veggies or whole grain carbohydrates.
For snacking, try combinations like hummus spread on crackers or bread. And chicken salad with a side of cubed cheese and grapes is great for lunch. Also, making mini-menus can help you start small and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Then, before you know it, you’ll be a master meal planner.
04. Cook Ahead Of Time
One of the best simple steps to meal prep is being proactive. Purchase whole grains that you can cook and store ahead of time. This will make it easier when it’s meal time. Pre-prepared rice or quinoa can be easily batched into containers and reheated for a simple, quick, and delicious lunch or dinner.
Using a slow cooker is also a great option if you have zero time to cook when you get home. For breakfast, you might consider trying overnight oatmeal. Mix oats, milk or a plant-based option, and sweetener in a glass jar or container. Store in the refrigerator and forget about it. In the morning, top with fruit, and your breakfast is ready!
05. Create Your Plate And Enjoy!
Now, it’s time for the fun part! After you’ve mastered the art of easy meal prep, create a plate that’s well balanced and appetizing. You might have grilled some of those pre-cut veggies to top off whole grain rice. Or, perhaps you’ve divided leftovers into individual portions. For many meals, you can likely eat directly from a portable storage container that you’ve already prepared.
At Jane’s Cafe, we make healthy eating accessible for everyone. You can visit our cafe and dine in, call in an order for pick-up, or order online for delivery.
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