A great way to save money is by getting on board with meal-prepping. Although it can seem overwhelming, it’s not as challenging as you may think. Author and recipe maven Natasha Greene has advice to revolutionize your meal prep routine. As she puts it, “variety is the spice of life, especially when it comes to meal prepping.”
Infuse Variety for Excitement, Consistency and Efficiency
If you are tired of the same old meals, Greene suggests breaking monotony with themed days and diverse textures.
“Introduce themed days, like Meatless Mondays or Taco Tuesdays,” Greene advises. “Vary textures by grilling some veggies for crunch and roasting others for a softer touch.”
Greene’s go-to brand, Kitchen Basics, enhances dishes with its rich taste, providing a unique twist to your weekly meals. For those juggling busy schedules, she recommends focusing on versatile ingredients.
“Streamline your meal prep by focusing on versatile ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes,” she shares. “Leverage flavorful convenient ingredients, like broths and stocks. I always need broth on hand for additions to my meals, so this is my #1 hack!”
Make sure to keep seasonal items in your meal prep to keep things exciting year-round. For this time of year, Greene recommends embracing winter gems, like butternut squash and kale. “Try a hearty Butternut Squash and Kale Salad stuffed chicken breast, combining the sweetness of squash with the robust flavor of kale,” Greene suggested. “For another protein-packed option, try a Citrus-Marinated Chicken with Winter Fruit Salsa can add a burst of freshness.”
Fresh and Healthy Meal Prep Full of Flavor
According to Greene, the key to crafting nutritious meal preps is to “prioritize a colorful array of vegetables.”
“Incorporate lean proteins, like grilled chicken or beans, for a satisfying and healthy balance,” Greene said. “Boost flavors without compromising health by using herbs, spices, and broths and stock. These help add richness and support your goals while making every bite delicious.”
When it comes to meal prepping, people tend to shy away because of the possibility of spoiling food they dont use in time. To combat challenges like these, her advice is to batch prep ingredients rather than fully cooking meals.
“Keep perishables separate until you’re ready to assemble, ensuring each component stays fresh,” she added. “Invest in quality storage containers and consider freezing portions for later in the week. It’s like your own mini kitchen time capsule.”
Staying Consistent Starts with You
You have to want to stick to your meal prep routine throughout the year.
“Staying consistent in meal prep requires a mix of planning and self-motivation,” Greene emphasized. “Set realistic goals and start small, celebrating your achievements, no matter how small. Consider involving a friend for mutual encouragement.”
She also made sure to stress the importance of customization in order to be successful in your meal prep goals.
“Identify your dietary preferences and restrictions,” she said. “Use social media as a tool to follow your favorite foodies that align with your dietary preferences for daily inspiration.”
With Greene’s insights, your meal prep journey is bound to become a delightful adventure tailored to your unique tastes and lifestyle.
“Flexibility and enjoyment are crucial for long-term success,” Greene said. “Consistency is a journey, not a destination.”