Simplifying Meal Prep

Are you into the routine of the fall yet?  I always find this time of year one to really settle.   Summer has become a little further in the rear view, end of year is starting to come to mind and we are getting into a flow.  Often times it is a very busy time that only starts to pick up speed between now and the end of year. 

It becomes very busy and overwhelming very quickly and we can feel like the days are running us. 5:30 comes and you are wondering what’s for dinner and are too tired, hungry and stressed to think about it.  It is exactly when you need to have a plan, but meal planning can be very daunting. It doesn’t have to be, and I want to make it simple for you.

Here are my top 10 tips to simplify meal prep!

1.     Have pre-washed produce cut and ready to grab in the fridge. This makes eating fruits & veggies that much easier.

2.     Have protein sources on hand - canned tuna, boiled eggs, nitrate free turkey, grilled salmon and rotisserie chicken are all great options

3.     Spend 5 minutes one day per week planning what you are going to eat. If the whole week is too much start with a few meals.

4.     Plan for your worst day.  What can you prepare/eat on the days that you are most busy?

5.     Seems silly, but know when you are picking up groceries so you don’t get home to realize you don’t have the food to make the dinner you planned.

6.     Find a protein powder or bar that you love and keep them on hand.  This is an easy way to eat on the go. 

7.     When you are cooking dinner make extras so you have leftovers for lunches or dinner.

8.     When dinner is being made think about breakfast or snacks for the following day.  Is there anything you can prepare since you are already in the kitchen making a mess?

9.     Keep a list of meals that work for you and your family.  Note where you found them for easy reference and go to that list as you set to plan.

10.   Enjoy the freedom that comes with a little prep!  Less decisions to make at the end of a busy day.