Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time, reduce food waste, and stick to a budget! With just a little planning, you can create delicious meals that are both easy on the wallet and satisfying. Let’s dive into some examples of easy budget-friendly meal prep recipes that you can whip up in no time!
This hearty and flavorful chickpea and spinach curry is perfect for busy nights. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.
To make this dish, start by sautéing an onion and a couple of cloves of garlic in a pot. Add a tablespoon of curry powder and cook until fragrant. Next, toss in two cans of rinsed chickpeas and a can of diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Finally, stir in a few cups of fresh spinach until wilted.
Divide the curry into meal prep containers and serve with a side of brown rice or quinoa. This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to five days, making it a perfect option for your weekly meal prep.
Notes: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
Soup is a classic meal prep option, and this vegetable and lentil soup is both nutritious and budget-friendly. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and can be frozen for later use.
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot. Sauté one chopped onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks until softened. Add a cup of rinsed lentils, four cups of vegetable broth, and your choice of chopped vegetables (like zucchini or green beans). Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or bay leaf. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Once cooled, portion the soup into containers. It can be kept in the fridge for about a week or frozen for up to three months. This soup is perfect for quick lunches or dinners, and you can easily customize it to your taste!
Notes: You can blend the soup for a creamier texture or add some diced tomatoes for extra flavor. Substitute lentils with beans if you prefer!
These colorful and nutritious Mexican quinoa bowls are perfect for meal prep. They’re filled with wholesome ingredients and can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Start by cooking one cup of quinoa according to package instructions. While the quinoa cooks, prepare your toppings: chop bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes, and rinse a can of black beans. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the veggies and beans. Add lime juice, salt, and cilantro for flavor.
Divide the mixture into meal prep containers and top with avocado slices before serving. These bowls can last in the fridge for up to five days, making them ideal for lunch or a quick dinner.
Notes: You can add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein. Feel free to experiment with different toppings like corn, salsa, or shredded cheese to suit your taste!
These examples of easy budget-friendly meal prep recipes are not only simple to make but also versatile and delicious. Happy cooking and meal prepping!