Meal prepping has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only does it save time and money, but it can also help with achieving health and fitness goals. However, for beginners, meal prepping can seem overwhelming and confusing. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you get started with meal prepping.
Meal prepping is the act of preparing meals in advance, typically for the week ahead. This can include cooking and portioning out meals, as well as chopping and prepping ingredients to make cooking during the week easier and more efficient.
There are numerous benefits to meal prepping, including:
Now that you know the benefits of meal prepping, here’s how you can get started:
The first step in meal prepping is choosing a day to prep your meals. This can be a weekend day or a day when you have a few hours free. Many people choose Sunday as it allows them to start the week with a fridge full of prepped meals.
Before you start prepping, it’s important to have a meal plan for the week. This will help you determine what ingredients you need and how much to prep. Consider your schedule for the week and plan accordingly. It’s also helpful to choose meals that use similar ingredients to save time and reduce waste.
Once you have your meal plan, make a grocery list of all the ingredients you’ll need. This will ensure that you have everything you need for the week and prevent any last-minute trips to the store.
Investing in good quality meal prep containers will make the process much easier. Look for containers that are microwave and dishwasher safe, and have separate compartments for different food groups.
Once you have your groceries and containers, it’s time to start prepping. Wash, chop, and portion out ingredients according to your meal plan. This can include cooking grains, roasting vegetables, and marinating proteins.
Assemble your meals by placing the prepped ingredients into your containers. Aim for a balance of protein, complex carbs, and vegetables in each meal. You can also add sauces or dressings on the side to avoid any soggy meals.
Once your meals are assembled, store them in the fridge or freezer, depending on when you plan to eat them. Be sure to label your containers with the name of the meal and the date it was prepped to keep track of freshness.
When it’s time to eat, simply reheat your meal in the microwave or oven, and enjoy a hassle-free, nutritious meal.
Here are a few tips and tricks to make your meal prepping experience even easier:
Meal prepping may seem daunting at first, but with a little bit of planning and preparation, it can become a simple and enjoyable part of your routine. By following this ultimate guide and incorporating some tips and tricks, you’ll be on your way to saving time, money, and achieving your health and fitness goals through meal prepping. So why not give it a try and see the benefits for yourself?