5 Healthy and Delicious Meal Prep Recipes for Busy Days

Are you tired of always reaching for fast food or processed snacks when you're short on time? Do you struggle to find healthy meal options during busy days? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we will share five easy and nutritious meal prep recipes that will make your busy days a lot easier.

Why Meal Prep?

Meal prep is a great way to save time and money while ensuring that you eat healthy and nutritious meals. By planning and preparing your meals in advance, you can avoid the temptation of fast food or unhealthy snacks and have a delicious and well-balanced meal ready to go when you need it. Plus, when you meal prep, you can control the portion sizes and ingredients, which is particularly helpful if you're trying to lose weight or maintain a specific diet.

Recipe #1: Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry

This chicken and veggie stir-fry is a quick and easy meal option that's packed with protein and veggies. Here's what you'll need:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the veggies and soy sauce, and cook until veggies are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide into meal prep containers and store in the fridge for up to four days.

Recipe #2: Mason Jar Salads

Mason jar salads are a great way to pack in all of your favorite veggies and protein in one easy-to-grab container. Here's what you'll need:

• Quart-sized mason jars
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup cucumber slices
• 1/4 cup feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Instructions:

1. Layer the ingredients in the mason jar, starting with the dressing at the bottom.
2. Add the veggies, cheese, and nuts on top of the dressing.
3. Fill the rest of the jar with the mixed greens.
4. Screw on the top and store in the fridge for up to four days.

Recipe #3: Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

This turkey and sweet potato chili is a healthy and filling meal that's perfect for colder days. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the turkey in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until onion is softened.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and chili powder, and bring to a simmer.
4. Cover the pan and simmer until sweet potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Divide into meal prep containers and store in the fridge for up to four days.

Recipe #4: Quinoa and Black Bean Bowls

These quinoa and black bean bowls are a great vegetarian meal option that's packed with protein and fiber. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Layer the quinoa, black beans, and corn in a meal prep container.
2. Top with sliced avocado and chopped cilantro.
3. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store in the fridge for up to four days.

Recipe #5: Baked Salmon and Asparagus

This baked salmon and asparagus is a healthy and flavorful meal that's packed with Omega-3s and other essential nutrients. Here's what you'll need:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Place the salmon fillets and asparagus on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
5. Divide into meal prep containers and store in the fridge for up to four days.

Conclusion

Meal prepping is a great way to save time and money while ensuring that you eat healthy and nutritious meals. By trying these five easy and delicious meal prep recipes, you can simplify your busy days and enjoy a balanced diet at the same time. So, get your meal prep containers ready and start cooking!