5 Steps to Master Modern Meal Prep

If you think you don’t have time to meal prep, think again. It becomes a choice of priority, not time. When it comes to healthier habits, meal prep is key! I’ve got a five step plan for you to master modern meal prep that doesn’t require hours spent in the kitchen or eating the same thing on repeat.

Meal prep — do you hate or love it?

I love meal prepping … when I make time for it. I envy those who make meal planning and prepping a non-negotiable in their weekly routine. Between traveling, events, recipe testing and non-traditional work hours, it can be easy for me to make excuses as to why I can’t make it a non negotiable, too.

So what’s your excuse for not meal prepping?

When I find myself in a rut of not planning and prepping, I’m constantly reaching for whatever is most convenient. And while I know better to not reach for the junk, I’m still not properly fueled as I would be if I planned out my meals. And I can feel the difference.  

If you’ve attempted meal planning before and quickly got discouraged, I feel ya.

I’ve got news for you — it’s possible to plan and prep meals without spending hours in the kitchen and keep it interesting from week to week.

My 5-Step Plan to Master Modern Meal Prep

1. Start small.
   There’s no need to make every single meal ahead of time, unless that’s your jam. Identify the meals that will be the most difficult for you and only prep these meals. Save the rest for the day of, choosing quick and simple recipes for easy assembly. Have you checked out my book SIMPLY SWAPPED Everyday? There are over 75 plant-powered recipes to fuel your week that are a great way to jumpstart your meal prep plan!
2. Find a system that works for you and make it a habit.
   No one said you have to plan and prep on specific days or in a certain way. Find a system that works for you and stick with it to make it a habit. My personal preference is to plan on Saturday, shop and prep a few things on Sunday, then reassess in the middle of the week and prep any remaining meals needed.
3. Chop fruits and veggies for a pre-portioned snack.
   The chances of you reaching for a nutritious snack is higher if it’s already prepared.
4. Make it once, use it multiple ways.
   This could be roasted veggies used in a power bowl or as a side, or utilizing freezer-friendly recipes and freezing half for a later week.
5. Invest in quality containers.
   While they may not be the cheapest, glass storage containers are pretty and they are the best meal prep solution if heating on-the-go (so that you don’t have to worry about plastic). I also love utilizing mason jars (both 16 and 32 oz.) because they are cheap and sustainable!

Here’s an idea of what a meal prep plan might look like:

• A few overnight oats for breakfast and/or snacks (½ a portion)
• Mason jar salads for lunch or dinner (with a side of protein, like roasted salmon)
• A batch of roasted veggies for a power bowl assembly or side dish
• One batch of soup for a lazy weeknight meal or lunch on-the-go

Ready to get started? Download your FREE meal planner kit template here to get planning and prepping!

Don’t forget, tag me @fitlivingeats on Instagram so that I can see your healthy meals for the week.

Let’s get prepping,