4 Fast Ways to Enter the World of Meal Prep
How do I meal prep?
MEAL PREP. It’s a scary word, especially if you haven’t done it much before. Setting aside a couple hours one day a week sounds like pulling teeth. It kind of is. At the end of the day, however, you’re saving time throughout the week not worrying about what you’re eating, saving money on not needing to order out, and saving your waistline on eating foods that more more whole-food based. Hurray!
Here’s a few tips on making meal prep less scary.
Step 1: Have a Lot of Tupperware
Different containers denote different meals. Lighter plastic for non-microwave food helps lighten the load.
Can’t make food without some place to put it all! I’m a fan of using food containers that are made of glass due to the high amount of time they will be microwaved for eating time. They are a little more expensive up front, but they don’t melt AND they are definitely great in the dishwasher for easy cleanup — just pop them in the dishwasher when you come home and you’re good.
I suggest having at least ten containers for two meals per work day. Glass is heavier but hardier than plastic containers.
Step 2: Have a Bag
this small bag fits a meal and a snack easily. Pictured here is a salad for fiber and vitamins, two hard boiled eggs for protein and fats, a strong bar for protein and fiber, and two plums for carbohydrates and fiber. Did I mention fiber enough.
This is where some people really like to have fun. You can style it up if you like!
Whether you’re into the practical and sturdy Igloo construction container or the trendy insulated shoulder bags, find a bag or cooler that you will want to use.
If you don’t want something ugly, get something pretty. If you prefer something ugly, you do you. It’s about you wanting to use the tool (the lunchbag) that will help you eat healthier.
Make sure the container is big enough for your work day. That is, if you need room for just one meal or if you want room for multiple meals and snacks. And leave room for your beverages!
Have a container for your food that you will want to use and is big enough for your daily needs.
the 6pack bag has three tupperware shelves and four tall pockets for drinks and fruit. And leftover pizza.
Step 3: Make Food in Batches
Lamb, asparagus, and mashed potato and leeks in the front and mushrooms, kale, and mashed potatoes in the back. Variety hoooo!
Some people are very picky about their food, needing to eat something different every day. If that is the case, I would make three batches of stuff!
Foods like stews and salad bases and great ways to make large amounts of the same thing. Snacks are also good for prepping ahead of time.
I suggest using chopped up veggies for snacks. Grab a couple things like carrots, celery (ew celery, grab peanut butter for that,) radishes, whatever you enjoy, and throw them into containers. Prefer cooked vegetables? Try sautéing spinach or kale with onions or leeks with a bit of garlic. Mmmm.
Make food in batches to save on prep time and save money.
Step 4: Stick to It!
A meaty take on pao de queijo
We all have days where we are slammed with work or tasks keep getting in the way and we don’t get a chance to eat. Now that you have your food with you, it’s easy to grab at least part of what you packed.
Sometimes the hardest part of packing your food is that you want variety, and even when you do have time to eat, you want something different. Stay the path! Maybe grab your favorite candy as a treat or grab a milkshake or your favorite drink as an addition to your meal to save your tastebuds but use your food.
a can of Dr. Pepper saves the day to get the sweet tooth fix alongside the healthy mix of fruit and lubbee, a middle eastern stew of meat and vegetables.
Having little extras with your prepped meals will keep your meals interesting without spending a ton of extra money or calories.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Want more help? Ask a friend for help, turn it into a social thing or ask for their guidance.
Do not hesitate to reach me with this handy contact form to nail down your preparation skills and get to a healthier way of living if you prefer to work with a coach!
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