Look, we’re all busy. Whether it’s prepping for a big presentation in the middle of the week, or planning a fun night out with your friends, meal prep and healthy eating can sometimes take a backseat, but it doesn’t have to. Meal prep can be treated like any of your other projects; if you properly plan ahead, you should have no trouble sticking to the healthy options. Here’s a few tips to help you meal prep like a champ.
Invest In Good Reusable Containers & Sealable Bags
Don’t cheap out on a set of soft plastic containers where the lids don’t stay on properly, stain, smell and are made with who knows what - instead, consider investing in some durable glass containers with strong lids. You’re going to be storing fresh ingredients that will turn into healthy meals so use containers that will retain the freshness throughout the week. Also, think about picking up a few large re-sealable bags to help save some of that precious fridge space.
Properly Store Fresh Ingredients
When you bring home fresh produce from the grocery store, don’t wash it right away. Instead, store it in the fridge until you’re ready to prep. When you are ready, thoroughly wash all of your leafy greens and fresh fruit and then pat it all dry with a paper towel;the less moisture after washing, the better. Another tip is to try and keep your fresh ingredients separate until you’re ready to eat.
Plan For Disruptions
When it comes to meal prep, one thing is for certain – sticking to the schedule never goes according to plan. Some evenings you need to work late, sometimes there’s a spontaneous event you need to attend, and sometimes you just can’t make the meal you had planned. Life doesn’t follow a specific path, and your healthy meals don’t need to either. When you’re prepping your meals for the week, prepare to have some of your plans disrupted. Just be conscious of the healthy options and try your hardest not to miss a meal.
Have Some Fun
There’s this common misconception that meal prep is tedious and boring, but it doesn’t have to be. Make a night of it with your significant other, make lunches based on a fun theme for the week, or try some new recipes. The great part about meal prep is that you’re in control and you can make your meals as colourful, tasty, fresh and fun as you want.
These are just a few tips to get you started, and by all means, if you’ve got your own meal prep tips, share them with our social community. Here’s to healthy choices.