When life gets busy, it can be challenging to eat healthy and stay within budget. Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time and money while ensuring you have nutritious meals ready to go. Here are three diverse examples of quick budget meal prep that are perfect for your hectic schedule.
This meal is ideal for a busy weeknight when you want something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup!
You’ll need:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, chop your veggies into bite-sized pieces. On a large baking sheet, place the chicken breasts in the center. Surround them with the mixed vegetables. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer. Toss the vegetables to coat them evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Once cooled, divide the chicken and veggies into meal prep containers. This dish can be enjoyed warm or cold throughout the week.
These colorful salad jars are perfect for lunch on the go! They are easy to prepare in advance and can last in the fridge for several days, making them a great choice for busy schedules.
You’ll need:
Start by cooking the quinoa. In a pot, combine quinoa and water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, bell pepper, and cooled quinoa. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and layer this mixture into jars, starting with the quinoa salad at the bottom.
When you’re ready to eat, simply add diced avocado and any extra toppings. Shake the jar to mix everything together!
This hearty pasta bake is a comforting meal that can be made in advance and frozen for later. It’s a fantastic option for busy families looking for a filling dinner.
You’ll need:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, mixed veggies, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the cheese.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Allow it to cool before slicing into portions and storing in meal prep containers. This dish can be frozen for up to a month!
With these examples of quick budget meal prep for busy schedules, you can enjoy delicious, homemade meals without sacrificing time or money. Happy prepping!