The magic word is…planning! While trying to balance work, school, kids and training – with a few fun activities thrown in now and then – you’re hard-pressed for healthy homemade meals. But with a little thinking ahead, you can achieve great things. Look at it this way: the more nutrient-dense meals you can fit in the day, the more energy you’ll have to get through that mile-long to-do list. Don’t be intimidated. These five food-prep tips will walk you through an easy, anyone-can-do-it planning process.
- Make a list and check it twice
Make a shopping list and stick with it. Pick out a few recipes or at least your favorite veggies and grains to be sure you have them on hand. This will save you money as well. Instead of grabbing anything you see, you’ll have a plan for each item and will reduce the amount of food that spoils from not being used.
2. Pre-wash
When you get home from the store, wash all the produce you purchased that day, dry it properly, and then store until you need it. You’ll be surprised how much time this saves in the long run, versus washing each time you’re making something.
3. Make it grain
Make a large batch of your favorite grain (millet, quinoa, brown rice, etc.) and save some for the next three days. Each evening, you can quickly steam veggies of your choice to top the grains and add a tasty (plant-based) sauce, like pesto or marinara.
4. Leave it
Leftovers are a time saver. If you need a lunch for yourself or the kids, you can make a little extra at dinner, and then scoop what’s left into BPA-free food containers. It’ll be right in the fridge waiting for you the next day.
5. Grab and go
Start your day with a Vega One smoothie. Keeping nut milk and frozen fruits on hand allows for fast and filling breakfasts. In a blender, process 1 scoop of Vega One, 1-½ cups non-dairy milk, ½ cup frozen fruit, ½ -1 cup leafy greens (like spinach) and enjoy as a delicious on-the-go meal.
Good health is just as achievable as all your other life goals. Make yourself a priority, and the benefits will enrich everyone’s wellbeing!
What are your time-saving food tips? Share in the comments below!
This article was originally published on MyVega.com
About the Author:
Paige Snyder is a plant-based nutritionist and Educator at Vega. She specializes in sports performance, stress management and achieving your optimal weight. Paige is currently completing her Masters in Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport and loves to develop raw dessert recipes.
The post 5 Food-Prep Steps to Simplify Healthy Eating first appeared on The Upside by Vitacost.com.
