- Get Inspired: There are many ways to find inspiration. Start by asking your family and friends what they do and like. Look up delicious and simple recipes online. You can even pick up an old cookbook that you haven’t opened in years.
- Set A Menu: Schedule what your entire week will look like. This will allow you to make a detailed grocery list of everything you need to set yourself up for success. This will also free you up on busy days and nights so you don’t have to hit a drive-thru last minute.
- Prep Your Groceries: Once you have your week’s groceries, start preparing them. Wash and dry your produce. Go ahead and cook a protein, a starch, and a veggie. Portion out grab-and-go items and snacks. And fill your fridge and freezer.
- Stay Organized: An organized kitchen allows you to easily find what you need. If you like to put items in clear bins, label them. If you’re freezing items, date them. If you have go-to items, make sure they’re up front. And wipe down your countertops consistently.
- Invest in Tools: Having a great set of kitchen tools makes meal prepping easier. Start with a great set of pots and pans, a large cutting board, a large sheet pan, a colander, at least one sharp knife, quality storage containers, mixing bowls, and utensils.
- Mix It Up: Mixing things up keeps things interesting so you don’t get bored of your meals. If you cook a big thing of rice, this week you can have burrito bowls, stir-fry, and chicken and rice. If you have ground beef, this week you can have tacos, hamburgers, and spaghetti and meatballs.
- Have Go-To Meals: There is no need to reinvent the wheel every week. You know what you and your family like to eat. Make sure you include your favorite meals in your weekly menu. Quick and easy ideas include sandwiches, soups, and salads.
- Know Your Schedule: If your Sundays are filled with church and family obligations, meal plan and prep on Saturdays. If you work nights, meal plan and prep during the day. Meal planning is supposed to set yourself up for success and no one knows your schedule better than you.
- Help Yourself: There is no shame in making things easier for yourself if you can. Get your groceries delivered or pick up curbside. Buy in bulk. Buy pre-cut and pre-made staples. Invest in an Instant Pot, Crock-Pot, Air Fryer, and Food Processor.
- Make It Fun: Food is supposed to be fun. Look at meal planning and prepping as an opportunity, not a chore. Get your kids involved with simple tasks. Celebrate theme nights like Taco Tuesdays, Pizza Fridays, and Breakfast for Dinner.
Sources:
https://www.thekitchn.com/10-tips-for-better-weekly-meal-planning-reader-intelligence-report-177252
https://savethefood.com/articles/10-easy-tips-for-meal-planning