I don’t have time to cook healthy meals. I don’t want to be in the kitchen all night after a busy day at work.
At one point in my life, I probably said these things! I came from a traditional family with sit-down meals prepared by my stay-at-home mom. Fast forward.
There’s good news! You can prepare a healthy meal in a short period.
Let’s go through my 5 tips for making healthy meals fast!
1. Meal Prep After Grocery Shopping
I work with several busy women who are at the point where they don’t enjoy cooking and grocery shopping. They typically do their shopping on the weekend.
What I tell my clients is this: when you bring your food in the door or it’s delivered, spend half an hour washing, cutting, and storing your fruits and vegetables.
You can always cut it down into smaller pieces when you need it for another recipe. Save yourself time now by putting your items in clear containers and you won’t waste food if you see it in your refrigerator.
2. Use What You Have In Your Refrigerator And Pantry
I’ve loved to cook ever since I was a child and watched my mom and grandmother cook. What I don’t love to do is be on my feet a lot. And, I realized I don’t have to make the entire meal for it to be healthy.
I rely on and keep handy in my refrigerator prepared items such as rotisserie chickens, slaw mix, prepared salmon and tuna, and vegetables that need limited preparation for steaming or air frying.
For example, a rotisserie chicken can be cut up for a nice salad or can be used on its own paired with steamed broccoli or green beans and a nice salad.
3. Go For Color
Crowding out is a term for adding more whole foods to your diet. Fill your plate with colorful vegetables first then eat your protein and fats followed by carbs.
When you see all the pretty colors on your plate, you are putting good things into your body which is also good for your mind and soul!
4. Enlist Helpers
Are you the one who does most of the cooking?
Do you have others living with you?
Do they ask you what’s for dinner when you walk in the door?
If yes, try asking them to help you prepare the meal. Not only do you get to spend quality time with this person, but you offer a teachable moment to help them become more self-sufficient and learn how to cook.
Who knows?
You might find they enjoy the creative process and can help with a meal or two.
5. Time For Other Things
Fail to prepare and prepare to fail. You are setting yourself up for success one small step at a time by putting these simple steps into your cooking habits.
And, if you can get something on the table in under 20 minutes, it frees you up to take a short walk after dinner. It sounds like a win-win to me!
About The Author:
Susan St. Angelo is a health and well-being coach. She is a graduate of IIN and works with women who are in transition with their careers, and relationships, and making healthy lifestyle changes. https://l.bttr.to/fb7oG
