In today’s fast-paced world it can be a challenge to find time each day to prepare healthy and nutritious meals. There is a reason why processed foods are chosen over fresh and that reason is often convenience. I am a working single Mom of three hilarious children with very specific dietary needs. I am passionate about nurturing my family through nutrition. Unfortunately, I often find that I am sacrificing quality time to provide quality meals. I knew that something had to give. Preparing and freezing our favourite meals has allowed me to have the best of both worlds. Nutrition provides the fuel needed to build a life we love and meal prepping allows us more time to enjoy all that we have created.
5 Steps to Meal Prep Success
Step 1: Invest in non-toxic containers that are freezer and oven safe. Consider what sizes you need. Personal sizes for your lunches and casserole dishes for family meals. Personally, I prefer glass dishes.
Step 2: Make space! I definitely found it worth the investment to buy a small freezer for my garage. I had to look at it as an investment in our health. Looking back I wish I would have gotten an even bigger one.
Step 3: Keep it simple. It is so easy to get overwhelmed with all the different possible meals. Start out small. Pick a few of your favourite meals and start with those. Expect a little trial and error with some meals being better suited for freezing and reheating than others.
Step 4: Designate a meal prep day! Get a babysitter or include the kids if they are ready. Set aside a full day 2-4 times a month. I love listening to some good music, having a glass (or two) of wine and including a friend or two makes the experience much more enjoyable.
Step 5: Be sure to label each meal and include the date it was prepared!
