How to Meal Prep Like a Pro: Tips and Tricks

Meal prepping is an excellent way to save time and effort in the kitchen while ensuring you have healthy and delicious meals throughout the week. With the right planning and preparation, anyone can meal prep like a pro. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started.

Plan your meals

The first step to successful meal prepping is to plan your meals. Start by deciding what you want to eat for the week and make a list of the ingredients you'll need. Take into account your dietary requirements, as well as any leftovers you might have from the previous week. Planning your meals in advance will help you stay organised and avoid last-minute decisions that can lead to unhealthy choices.

Invest in the right containers

Investing in the right containers is essential for meal prepping. Look for containers that are durable, easy to clean and come in different sizes. Glass containers are a great option as they're non-toxic and won't stain or absorb odours. Mason jars are also an excellent choice for storing salads, soups, and other foods that need to be kept separate.

Shop smartly

When shopping for groceries, stick to your list and buy in bulk whenever possible. Buying in bulk will save you money, and you'll always have ingredients on hand for future meals. Look for sales and discounts on items you use frequently, such as rice, pasta, and canned goods.

Batch cook

Batch cooking is a fantastic way to save time and ensure you have plenty of food to last throughout the week. Cook larger portions of your meals and divide them into individual servings to store in your containers. You can also cook grains and proteins in advance, such as quinoa, chicken, and beef, and store them in the fridge or freezer to use in multiple dishes.

Use your freezer

Your freezer is your friend when it comes to meal prepping. Frozen fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh, and they can be used in smoothies, stir-fries, and soups. You can also freeze batches of meals or individual portions to have on hand for busy days when you don't have time to cook.

Prep your ingredients in advance

Prepping your ingredients in advance can save you a lot of time when it comes to cooking. Chop your vegetables, cook your rice, and marinate your proteins the day before, so you can simply assemble your meals when it's time to eat. This will also help you stay organised in the kitchen and avoid any stress that comes with last-minute meal prep.

Don't be afraid to mix and match

Meal prepping doesn't have to be boring. Don't be afraid to mix and match different ingredients and flavours to keep things interesting. Try new recipes, experiment with different seasonings, and add some variety to your meals. You can also use your leftovers to create new dishes, such as using leftover chicken in a stir-fry or turning leftover rice into a delicious fried rice dish.

Keep it simple

Meal prepping doesn't have to be complicated. Stick to simple recipes that can be prepared quickly and easily. You can also use basic ingredients, such as rice, quinoa, and vegetables, and add different proteins and seasonings to create different flavours. Keeping your meals simple will also make it easier to stay on track with your healthy eating goals.

Schedule your meal prep

Scheduling your meal prep can help you stay on track and avoid any last-minute decisions. Set aside a few hours each week to plan your meals, shop for groceries, and prepare your ingredients. You can also prep your meals in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until it's time to eat.

Get creative with your snacks

Snacks are an essential part of any meal prep routine, and it's important to have healthy options on hand to avoid reaching for unhealthy snacks when hunger strikes. Some great snack options include sliced vegetables and hummus, hard-boiled eggs, nuts and seeds, and fruit. You can also make your own healthy snacks, such as energy balls or homemade granola bars, and store them in your containers for easy access throughout the week.