Meal prep is the practice of preparing meals in advance, typically for the week ahead. It involves planning and cooking meals ahead of time, portioning them out, and storing them for later consumption.

Meal prepping offers numerous benefits. It saves time by reducing the need to cook every day, allows for better portion control, helps in maintaining a healthy diet, and can save money by reducing food waste and eating out less frequently.

To start meal prepping, begin by selecting a day of the week that works best for you to dedicate to meal prep. Plan your meals for the week, create a grocery list, and shop for the necessary ingredients. Set aside a few hours to cook and portion out the meals. Invest in quality storage containers to keep your meals fresh and organized.

Foods that are best for meal prepping are those that can be easily reheated without losing their taste or texture. This includes dishes like casseroles, stir-fries, soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats. It’s also a good idea to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your meal prep.

The storage time for meal prepped food depends on the type of food and how it is stored. Generally, cooked meats and vegetables can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, while soups and stews can last up to 5 days. To extend the shelf life, you can also freeze some meals for up to 3 months.

To properly reheat meal prepped food, use a microwave, stovetop, or oven. Make sure to follow the specific instructions for each dish. It’s important to heat the food to the proper internal temperature to ensure it is safe to eat. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature, and stir or rotate the food as needed for even heating.