Meal prep, or preparing meals in advance, can be a great way to save time, eat healthier, and stay on track with your nutrition goals. However, it can be easy to get stuck in a rut with the same old meals and ingredients. If you’re looking for some healthy meal prep ideas that are a bit more unique and innovative, here are a few ideas to try:
Make your own energy bars: Rather than buying pre-made energy bars, try making your own at home using a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a binding ingredient like nut butter or coconut oil. These homemade bars can be cut into individual servings and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for an easy, healthy snack on the go.
Prep protein-packed muffins: Muffins can make for a convenient, portable breakfast or snack, but many store-bought varieties are loaded with sugar and refined flour. Try making your own protein-packed muffins at home using a combination of whole grains, protein powder, and healthy fats like nuts or avocado.
Mix up your grain bowls: Grains like quinoa, rice, and millet can be a healthy and filling base for a meal prep bowl, but try switching things up by using alternative grains like farro, freekeh, or amaranth. You can also mix in a variety of vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats to create a well-rounded and tasty meal.
Create your own snack packs: Rather than buying pre-made snack packs filled with processed snacks, try creating your own using a combination of whole foods like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and fresh veggies. These snack packs can be portioned out and stored in the refrigerator or pantry for an easy, healthy snack option.
Experiment with plant-based protein sources: If you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet, try prepping some protein-rich options like tofu, tempeh, or legumes. These can be marinated and grilled, stir-fried, or added to soups and stews for a tasty and satisfying meal.
By getting creative with your meal prep, you can come up with a variety of healthy and tasty meals that will keep you energized and nourished throughout the week.