Here's how: Meal Prep for Success!

Most of us feel the squeeze of being time-starved when it comes to preparing homecooked meals. However, while that sizzling plate of takeout can be convenient, it might not be as healthy or economical as homecooked food. One of the solutions to breezing through weeknight meals? Meal prep!

Meal prep involves planning, cooking, and storing meals in bulk. It's usually done on the weekend, ahead of the work week, although some may choose to dedicate other slots of free time to meal prep. Meal prepping is definitely a game-changer when it comes to saving time, money, and maintaining a healthy diet throughout the week. 

Here are our top tips to master meal prepping:

1. Plan Your Meals

Set aside some time on the weekend to plan out your meals for the week. Take into account your schedule, dietary goals, and ingredients you already have. Also, consider personal preferences and any special occasions that might affect your meal choices.

2. Shop Smart

Make a detailed shopping list based on your meal plan to avoid impulse and unnecessary purchases to keep costs down. Focus on whole foods and versatile ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes to maximise efficiency and minimise waste.

3. Invest in Quality Containers

Invest in a set of durable, reusable containers in various sizes to keep your prepped meals fresh. Glass containers are ideal for reheating, while compartmentalised containers help seperate different food items. Make sure you get containers with airtight lids to maintain freshness and prevent spills — especially if you're bringing meals to work!

4. Use Time-Saving Cooking Methods

Optimise your time with efficient cooking methods. Try batch cooking by roasting multiple ingredients at once in the oven, using a slow cooker, or prepping staple ingredients that can be mixed and matched throughout the week.

5. Label and Date Your Meals

Proper labelling is super important! Clearly mark each container with the contents and the date it was prepared. This helps you keep track of how long your meals have been stored.

Here’s a quick summary of these meal prep tips—save this infographic for easy reference!

Make Meal Prep Work for You

With these tips, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of meal prep and making your weeknights a whole lot easier. Start small, find what works best for you, and enjoy the benefits of stress-free, homecooked meals.