7 Easy Meal Prep Ideas for Busy Professionals
As a busy professional, finding time to cook nutritious meals every day can be a task that easily gets dismissed and feels inconvenient. Fortunately, meal prepping offers a smart and feasible solution to ensure you have healthy, delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. In this blog post, we'll explore seven easy meal prep ideas that will not only save you time but also help you maintain a balanced diet amid your busy schedule. Plus, we'll discuss the benefits of using a meal prep service in Calgary called Nutrimeals (that’s us) to take the hassle out of meal prepping.
Healthy Meal Prep Ideas
1. Mason Jar Salads: A Burst of Freshness
Mason jar salads are a convenient and visually appealing way to enjoy fresh, crisp greens and vibrant veggies. Prepare these on Sundays, layering your favorite salad ingredients in the jar, starting with the dressing at the bottom and leafy greens on top. This is a great, mess-free way to get a healthy serving of vegetables and nutrients during the day. Throughout the week, grab a jar on your way out, shake it up, and savor a delicious and healthy meal at your workplace.
2. One-Pan Oven Meals: Minimal Cleanup
Simplify your meal prep process with one-pan oven meals. This style of cooking has become very popular because it’s a great and quick way to get dinner on the table, with less dishes to clean up after. Toss your choice of protein, vegetables, and seasonings onto a baking sheet, and roast them all together. This method not only saves time but also reduces the number of dishes to wash. Consider preparing marinated chicken with a variety of colorful veggies for a flavorful and hassle-free dinner.
3. Overnight Oats: A Nutritious Grab-and-Go Breakfast
If you’re someone who eats breakfast in the morning, overnight oats are a fantastic solution – simply combine rolled oats, milk (or a dairy-free alternative), fruits, chia seeds and a touch of sweetener in a jar. Let it sit in the refrigerator overnight, and voilà! A wholesome and satisfying breakfast will be ready for you in the morning. Get creative with your flavours such as lemon blueberry, or chocolate strawberry. Check out some of Nutrimeals delicious overnight oats on the breakfast menu!
4. DIY Freezer Smoothie Packs: Quick and Nutritious
If the overnight oats aren’t for you, and you like the sound of a torpedo going through your house first thing in the morning, then smoothies are the perfect breakfast for you. Mornings can be chaotic, but you can still start your day with a nutritious boost by prepping freezer smoothie packs. Blend your favorite fruits, greens, and other smoothie ingredients, then portion them into individual freezer bags. For a boost of protein, add your favourite protein powder. When you're ready for a smoothie, grab a bag, add liquid, blend, and enjoy!
5. Slow Cooker Wonder: Set It and Forget It
Embrace the magic of the slow cooker! For some, this is their favourite appliance in their kitchen. The healthy meal prep options with a slow cooker are endless! Before leaving for work, place your choice of protein, vegetables, and seasonings in the slow cooker. By the time you return home, you'll be welcomed by the inviting aroma of a fully cooked, nutritious meal. Make a hearty chilli in the colder seasons, or a pulled chicken to add on top of your salad in the summertime.
6. Calgary Meal Prep Service: A Time-Saving Option
Sometimes cooking can feel like a chore. And when I say sometimes, I mean all the time. Unless you’ve created a peaceful environment with you, your favourite record, and a glass of wine while you watch that demi glaze then it might be time to consider using a local Calgary meal prep service like your friends here at Nutrimeals. We offer a diverse menu of nutritious meals prepared by our talented team, tailored to your dietary preferences. With our help, you can enjoy restaurant-quality, healthy meals without any cooking or cleanup.
"I tried many other meal plan/ service options and Nutrimeals is the one I've decided to stick with. While with other providers you sacrifice one of time, cost, quality or a combination, with Nutrimeals they make it easy to eat healthy, tasty meals at affordable price."
Using Nutrimeals allows you to explore exciting culinary creations crafted with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Not only will you save time on meal prep, but you'll also support local businesses and enjoy the convenience of having meals delivered right to your doorstep.
7. Protein-Packed Snack Boxes: Fuel Throughout the Day
If you’re someone who likes to snack throughout the day, or sitting down for a meal doesn’t fit you’re your schedule, make sure you’re snacking on nutrient dense, high protein foods. Keep far away from ultra processed foods that contain fructose syrups, and ingredients that you can’t pronounce. Stay energized and focused by preparing protein-packed snack boxes. Combine nuts, sliced cheese, boiled eggs, and your favorite fruits for a quick and nourishing snack on busy days.
Maintaining a healthy diet as a busy professional doesn't have to be overwhelming. Embrace meal prepping and try these seven easy meal prep ideas to make nutritious eating a breeze throughout the week. And for those times when life gets too hectic, don't hesitate to rely on local meal prep services like Nutrimeals to enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals without the fuss. With these meal prep strategies, you'll be nourishing your body and optimizing your productivity, no matter how packed your schedule may be.