Home cooking is a big way to eat healthier. Are you trying to prepare more home-cooked meals but running into the dilemma of a busy schedule? Healthy cooking can be quick. Discover several kitchen shortcuts to get the most out of meal planning and prepping with our tips below!
- Wash and chop vegetables and fruits as soon as you get home from the store.
- Snack smart. Place your washed and chopped vegetables and fruits in containers for easy grab-and-go snacks.
- Buy pre-washed leafy greens, like spinach and kale.
- Cook large amounts of rice, quinoa and other grains. Use what you need for one recipe then freeze the rest.
- Freeze leftover ingredients, like tomato paste and pesto. Add them to an ice cube tray, freeze, then place in a dated and labeled freezer bag.
- Have a few extra hours on your day off? Prep several items at one time.
- Add one to two pounds of chicken breast or thighs and about one cup of chicken broth to the slow cooker and cook on high for four to six hours. Shred with two forks or a stand mixer, then use later in the week for tacos, salad or stir fry.
- Roast fresh or frozen (thawed) vegetables in the oven at 425 F for 20 minutes.
- Sauté onions and peppers and add lean ground beef with Italian seasoning (for pasta), or taco seasoning (for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas).