Thai cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and aromatic ingredients. Meal prepping Thai dishes can save you time during the week while ensuring you enjoy a delicious, homemade meal. Here are three diverse and practical examples of Thai meal prep ideas that are easy to make and perfect for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
This meal prep idea is great for a quick protein-packed lunch. It’s a one-pan dish that brings together delicious Thai flavors with minimal fuss.
Start by sautéing diced chicken breast in a skillet with a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and shallots for flavor. Once the chicken is cooked through, mix in fresh Thai basil leaves and a splash of soy sauce and fish sauce. Serve this over cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Divide the mixture into meal prep containers, topping each with sliced cucumbers and a wedge of lime for a refreshing crunch.
Relevant Notes: You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding sliced chilies according to your preference.
This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days and makes a great meal prep option because it freezes well. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a pot. Then, add chopped carrots and bell peppers, cooking until they soften. Stir in red lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and your choice of curry paste. Bring it to a simmer until the lentils are tender.
Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, and when you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or microwave. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Relevant Notes: You can add vegetables like spinach or sweet potatoes to enhance your soup. Adjust the curry paste based on your spice tolerance.
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light meal and can be prepped in advance for a quick grab-and-go lunch. Start by marinating shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, fish sauce, and a bit of sugar. Grill the shrimp until they’re cooked through. For the salad, combine shredded green mango, grated carrots, chopped cilantro, and crushed peanuts in a bowl.
Toss everything with a dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and a teaspoon of sugar. Divide the salad into containers and top with the grilled shrimp. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the salad components ahead of time and add the shrimp just before serving.
Relevant Notes: If you can’t find green mango, shredded red cabbage can be a tasty substitute. For a vegetarian version, replace shrimp with marinated tofu.
By preparing these Examples of Thai Meal Prep Ideas, you can enjoy the vibrant and delicious flavors of Thai cuisine while saving time during the week. Happy cooking!