6 Healthy Meal Prep Ideas From a Registered Dietitian

These healthy meal prep ideas are designed to maximize both nutrition and time spent cooking.

1. Keep It Simple

Simplicity is the key to healthy meal prep. Focus on one or two recipes if you are new to meal prep and slowly go from there.

2. Start With What You Have

Before you head to the grocery store, ‘shop’ from your fridge and pantry.

3. Batch Cook Grains and Legumes

Whole grains, like quinoa, oats, brown rice, farro, and bulgur wheat, can all be made ahead of time.

4. Make an All-purpose Sauce

Try a simple cherry tomato salsa of halved cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and chopped parsley.

5. Chop Vegetables and Fruit

This healthy meal prep tip allows you to have nutrient-dense ingredients for raw snacking and cooking.

6. Double Recipes

Doubling your work is self-explanatory. For example, if you go to make a meal, you could cook more for an additional dinner.