Do not think of meal preparation as an overwhelming task. Some strategic planning and thoughtful execution will help you save hours on weekends.
Cook dishes that can be reheated in large portions (e.g. soups and stews). Alternatively, cook simple recipes such as casseroles.
If your children are old enough, involve them in the process. This should be a fun family activity where everybody is looking forward to sharing the prepared meals.
Make a Shopping List
Having an idea of what you need to buy before going shopping saves time and prevents impulsive decisions that lead to unhealthy choices.
Begin by emptying all your cupboards, fridge and freezer while taking stock of what is available there – this becomes your master list. Note down everything that is present on it including items which are running low or close to expiry date.
Assemble all ingredients required for executing your plan into a shopping list as well; this keeps you focused so that you do not overspend because of sales or coupons which might make you buy more food than can be eaten before it spoils.
Plan Your Meals
Busy cooks often find meal planning intimidating but actually, it is relatively easy. Just choose dishes which one knows how to prepare and loves cooking too. Also good are roasted vegetables salads stir-fry pasta etcetera – these can easily be made in large quantities at once.
In advance pick out what meals will be cooked every day throughout the entire week considering leftovers or dining out when one does not feel like cooking anything for themselves on certain days Incorporating different types of meals e.g., tacos bowls salads ensures a wide variety of nutrients are obtained from them all.
When creating your own meal plan use up foods stored inside freezer or pantry so as minimize waste while saving money also! You may also come up with another shopping list based on this plan hence reducing impulse purchases made at supermarkets.
Create a Grocery List
At the start of meal prep, draft a grocery list to make sure you have everything needed for cooking including those that may already be in your pantry, refrigerator or freezer. Also it is good idea to go through these three areas before going shopping so as prevent double buying or things nearing expiry.
Write down the list on paper or digital device but not in your mind – this way will help remember it even if left behind at home car! Arrange it by aisle types thus making shopping less time-consuming.
Include items like napkins and kitchen utensils, toiletries or even first aid kits when writing grocery lists so that one is always prepared for unexpected visitors emergencies.
Get Your Ingredients Ready
During preparation day, get busy with all ingredients you are going to need throughout the week by washing them chopping where necessary This might include vegetables such as carrots and celery for snacking packing lunches bulk proteins like chicken breasts tofu fast stir fries prepping large batches freezing soups stews beans baking casseroles which freeze well among others.
Keep other easy and fast meal preparation ideas close by such as one-pot pasta dishes like this flavorful and healthy chicken teriyaki recipe or simple salads like this vitamin-packed cucumber dosa — they’re perfect for busy nights when time is of the essence!
If you’re a beginner, start small and plan out two or three days’ worth of meals at a time until you get into the swing of things. As you get more comfortable with your routine, move to planning larger quantities over longer periods.
Cook Your Meals
Ideally, you should choose recipes that can be easily made ahead of time and taste good when reheated, based on your recipe requirements. Also, if possible, opt for recipes that can be made in bulk.
For example, cook a large batch of whole grains such as farro or brown rice and use them in multiple meals throughout the week or make a big salad that doubles as dinner one night and lunch the next.
The goal of meal prepping is to have healthy, delicious home-cooked meals ready to go without any stress or extra money spent on expensive takeout. By following these basic meal prep tips & recipes you’ll never have another stressful moment about what’s for dinner again — which leaves more room in the budget for quality family time!
