How many times have you told yourself this is it, I'm not going to give up this time? And then it happens. You're driving the kids to games, working late, or just don't have time to make a meal. So you give in and grab a quick drive-thru meal.
Is it the end of the world? Absolutely not! But, the processed foods you're putting into your body – even if they're still vegan, are not nourishment. The best way to avoid this situation is through meal preparation.
Why meal prep?
Sometimes it can feel overwhelming trying to think of what to make for an entire week. It DOES take time, it DOES take thought, it DOES take effort. But, on the plus side, you will be cooking one time and everything will be ready for the entire week.
It can be so easy to make excuses as to why you're busy and can't make dinner. Work, traffic, school activities, sports games, etc. The list goes on and on. But when you prepare your meals ahead of time you don't have to worry about the nightly 40 minutes to an hour to prepare dinner.
Having your meals prepared also deters you from going out to eat and reduces your cheat meals because you've already invested your time and money into the meals you have prepared at home, and you don't want those to go to waste.
How to meal prep?
Do what works for you! Right now since I'm working from home, I prefer to prepare Yuri's lunch for work each night before bed after the kids are asleep. However, when I was going into the office, it was much simpler for me to make a longer day out of it each Sunday and cook for the entire week.
What are the pros and cons of preparing your meals nightly?
Pros:
- Fresher foods (especially with salad)
- No need to plan far in advance
- Quicker preparation
- Less storage containers to use at once
Cons:
- Need to remember to prepare food each night
- Can leave room for excuses for not prepping
Pros:
- Only need to cook and prep once then it is ready
- No excuse for forgetting to prepare
Cons:
- Need to plan well in advance for what you will cook all week
- More storage containers and fridge space is needed
- Food may not be as fresh (especially salads)
So, what's the best storage container to use?
Although the plastic storage containers can be much cheaper, we recommend using glass storage containers. The chemicals from the plastic can actually leech chemicals into the water or food within the container, which we then digest. Gross!!
I've included a link to the storage containers we use if you do not yet own the glass storage containers, I highly recommend you invest in these.
Insanely Delicious: Vegan Recipes For Weight Loss
You'll get delicious breakfasts smoothies, delectable salads outside of the norm, unbelievably healthy dinners, and incredible desserts and snacks all in one convenient place!