Something that helps me be my best most (not every) week is batch cooking/meal prep. If you are searching for ways to be your best self that include healthier eating, saving time and money then I’ve got you covered with a few tips below on why and how to do so 🙂
What is batch cooking? It’s essentially preparing all of your meals and snacks for the week (or at least part of the week) on one day of the week. For many of us this day happens to fall on Sunday (#sundaymealprep anyone?). This is because many people are home and winding down their weekends while also preparing for the week ahead on this day. However, it’s important to note that meal prep doesn’t have to occur on Sunday. The best day is the day that works for YOU and your schedule.
3 top reasons to Batch Cook:
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Saves time
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Think of meal prep as an investment for the week. While you have to invest ~2 hours one day it actually will end up saving you loads of time later during the week since all you’ll have to do is reheat the prepared meals and snacks. This will allow you more time to be productive in other aspects of your life/focus on the things you love!
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Reduces stress
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You wont only be freeing up your time, but also will be freeing up your mind! Batch cooking can help give you extra mental space so that you can stress less over what to put on your plate during the busy workweek.
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Helps you reach your goals
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For basically every aspect in life, planning ahead is the key to staying on track and reaching your goals. The same goes for goals related to healthier eating and weight loss. Planning ahead will set you up for success!
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Tips for getting started:
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Start with 1 recipe! Seriously – just one! I know it sounds small, but I truly believe small steps lead to great success! Something like a breakfast recipe for the week is a good way to start and then you can add on each week til you end up having 5+ recipes your making all at once. Look out for another upcoming post (coming soon!) on best practices for multitasking while batch cooking.
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My mini egg and veggie frittata recipe is a great place to start for a breakfast option!
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If you think you can handle more than 1 recipe the first week then aim for hitting all the food groups and select a few of the following and you’re off to a fabulous start!
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A lean protein (chicken, fish, tofu, turkey, eggs)
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A whole grain (whole wheat pasta, brown rice, quinoa, oats)
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Lots of veggies (I personally love making massaged kale because I find it lasts well and stays fresh throughout the week compared to other types of lettuce)
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Cut up some fruit
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Key point to remember – everyone is different!
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While this method of food preparation is universally beneficial for everyone, it’s important to remember that it is also different for everyone.
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There isn’t one right way to go about it. For example, someone who has busy mornings and rushes out of the house they may find it more beneficial to prepare quick and convenient breakfast options, however for someone who works late they may benefit for preparing dinner ahead of time so all they have to do when getting home is heat it up.
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Always take into account your individual lifestyle and figure out how food prep could help make your life easier.
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It may take some experimenting to find a routine that fits you best, but once you do it will only continue to get easier and more rewarding going forward!
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