Life never seems to slow down. It can be hard to keep pace, which is why many of us are looking for ways to make life simpler. Meal prepping has become a popular way to do just that. You can streamline meals, increase nutrition, and reduce the grocery bill. But, it can be overwhelming to think of preparing a week's worth of meals on a single day.
Meal prepping is like anything else. It takes time to learn how to do it and to do it in a way that works for you. You don't need to start out making an entire week's worth of meals on your first go-round. In fact, it's better to start small with three or four days until you get into a routine you like. Once you get into the swing of things, you’ll have healthy meals ready to go.
1. Pick Your Day
The point of meal prepping is to get all your meals ready to go on a single day. At first, when you're building a new habit, it's best to literally schedule the time. Many people choose Sunday because they're home from work as is the rest of the family. If that doesn't work for you, pick a day where you have time and write it in.
2. Pick Your Meal
In the beginning, it's best to focus on a single meal rather than all of them. Start with the meal that is your biggest pain point. For big families, that's often dinner. Couples or singles may find it more effective to prep lunch or breakfast. After you got some experience under your belt, you can expand to include other meals and snacks.
3. Pick a Prep Method (or Two)
There are lots of different prep methods. Some people like to cook their chicken all at once. After that, they divide it out and season it to be used in different meals. Other methods include prepping all of your vegetables and storing them separately where you can combine them throughout the week for faster dinners and lunches.
And don't overlook traditional favorites like the crockpot. You can put together freezer meals that can be thrown in the crockpot when you leave in the morning and will be ready after work. Another option is to cook food in your crockpot on your prep day, leaving you free to prep other meals on the stove and in the oven.
No matter what method(s) you choose, remember that multitasking is your best friend. The more you can do at once, the faster and more efficient you’ll be.
4. Gather Your Ingredients and Containers
Choose your recipes and make a grocery list. Make sure you have everything you need before you start, including the right containers. Square or rectangular containers work best because they can be stacked in the fridge or freezer. You also want to make sure they're free of harmful substances like BPA. If you really want to go easy on yourself, look for containers that are:
Microwavable
Freezer safe
Dishwasher safe
Reusable
5. Gather Your Ingredients and Containers
If you've got the ingredients, the containers, and the time, get to work. Enlist the help of your family. When everyone works together to accomplish a common goal, you grow closer and everyone will appreciate the time it takes to eat good food. You'll become more efficient with practice.
Meal prepping reduces your stress throughout the week and helps you focus on nutrition. And, just think of the money you’ll save by eating a home-prepared meal over taking out. So go forth and get prepping. Your body and family will thank you.