Meal prepping can be a game-changer for anyone looking to save time, eat healthier, or simply make cooking less stressful. For beginners, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are three practical examples of the best meal prep tools for beginners that will help you get started on your meal prep journey.
Glass meal prep containers are incredibly useful for anyone starting with meal prep. They come in various sizes and shapes, making it easy to store different types of food. Their heat resistance means you can use them for both storing leftovers in the fridge and reheating meals in the oven or microwave.
These containers help keep your food fresh and are often designed with airtight lids to prevent spills and odors. Being made of glass, they’re also a healthier alternative to plastic, as they don’t leach harmful chemicals into your food.
When meal prepping, you can use these containers to portion out your meals for the week. For example, prepare grilled chicken, steamed broccoli, and quinoa, and divide them into individual containers. This way, you have ready-to-eat meals that are easy to grab during the week.
Notes: Look for BPA-free glass containers with compartments for versatile meal prep. You might also want to consider different colored lids to help differentiate meals.
A food scale is an essential tool for anyone serious about meal prep, especially if you’re focusing on portion control or specific dietary goals. It allows you to measure your ingredients accurately, which is especially helpful when following recipes or tracking macros.
For example, if you’re prepping for the week and want to ensure you’re getting the right amount of protein, using a food scale can help you measure out exactly 4 ounces of chicken breast for each meal. This ensures consistency and can help you avoid overeating or underestimating your intake.
Many digital food scales also come with a tare function, which allows you to subtract the weight of the container you’re using, making it super easy to get accurate measurements.
Notes: Choose a scale that has a clear display and is easy to clean. Some even come with nutritional calculators to help you track your meals more effectively.
Silicone baking mats are a fantastic tool for beginners looking to simplify their cooking and cleanup process. These mats replace the need for parchment paper and can be reused countless times, making them an eco-friendly choice.
When meal prepping, you can use silicone mats to roast vegetables or bake proteins. Just spread your veggies or marinated chicken directly on the mat, pop it in the oven, and once you’re done, cleanup is a breeze—just wipe them down with a sponge or toss them in the dishwasher!
These mats are non-stick, which means you don’t have to worry about food sticking, making it easier to get perfectly roasted vegetables or baked goods every time.
Notes: Look for mats that are oven-safe and have measurements printed on them, which can help you with portioning and spacing your food items correctly during cooking.
By incorporating these examples of best meal prep tools for beginners into your cooking routine, you’ll find that meal prepping becomes a lot more manageable and enjoyable. Happy cooking!