In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook nutritious meals can feel like an uphill battle. I often hear from clients and friends alike that they struggle to prioritize healthy eating amidst their busy schedules. It seems life is busier in the cooler months, however I speak to my clients often about how to eat healthfully in the rush of enjoying summer too. But fear not, for there’s always a solution waiting in the wings – and it starts with a well-stocked freezer.
Creating Your Meal Safety Net
Do you have a backup plan for those hectic days when cooking seems impossible? If not, it might be time to consider stocking your freezer with easy meal components. Even better, why not prepare homemade meals in advance? With a bit of planning, this approach can be quicker than ordering takeout, more budget-friendly, and offer greater control over the ingredients you consume. Let’s explore the options together.
Batch cooking is a lifesaver for those who crave variety in their meals. Rather than cooking individual dishes every day, batch cooking involves preparing large quantities of staple ingredients that can be used in various dishes throughout the week. Picture this: a big batch of rice, black beans, diced chicken, and roasted veggies, all neatly stored in your fridge or freezer. With these components on hand, you can whip up diverse meals like burrito bowls, quesadillas, or fried rice in a matter of minutes. And don’t forget about breakfast – a hearty batch of oatmeal can fuel your mornings with endless possibilities.
Meal prepping is a tried-and-true strategy embraced by many busy individuals. It involves preparing complete meals or recipes ahead of time, ensuring you have nutritious options ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes. While the planning process may seem daunting at first, don’t be discouraged. Consider teaming up with a friend or seeking advice from seasoned meal preppers to ease into the routine. And don’t underestimate the power of kitchen gadgets like electric pressure cookers or slow cookers to streamline the process. Whether it’s a hearty bowl meal or a comforting lentil dish, meal prepping can revolutionize your approach to eating well on the go.
For those moments when time is scarce and patience wears thin, premade foods can be a lifesaver. While homemade is often touted as the gold standard, there’s no shame (really, like, none) in relying on convenient options with a bit of thoughtful planning. Instead of an all-or-nothing mentality, embrace the balance of incorporating premade components into your meal rotation. Consider keeping items like frozen cooked rice or quinoa, precooked chicken, or falafel on hand for quick and satisfying meals. Paired with a few fresh ingredients from your fridge, these easy meal components can save the day and keep you nourished no matter how hectic life gets. Some ideas for quick meals that include a premade component include:
- Frozen steamable bags of cooked rice, quinoa, or vegetables – as sides
- Precooked chicken – can be eaten as is with some sides or shredded or cubed for burritos or stir-fries
- Frozen ravioli or similar – eaten with pasta sauce or pesto and sliced cherry tomatoes.
- Egg white rounds – for breakfast sandwiches
- Frozen fruit – for smoothies or addition to oatmeal
- Falafel – to add to salads or pair with tzatziki, cucumbers, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pita
- Frozen shelled edamame – add to quick stir-fries for protein and fiber
- Frozen shrimp
So, there you have it – a blueprint for conquering mealtime chaos with grace and ease. By stocking your freezer with easy meal components and embracing the power of batch cooking and meal prepping, you can reclaim control over your nutrition and reduce mealtime stress. Remember, it’s not about perfection but finding what works best for you in the midst of life’s whirlwind. So go ahead, take the first step towards a healthier, happier you – your future self will thank you for it.