Meal prep back to basics

Most days start with a walk in my local woods, enjoying the wildlife, the fresh air and the solitude.

There are always loads of lovely birds around, and often I find myself surrounded (in a non-threatening way) by squirrels, which got me thinking….

Meal prep like a squirrel

We all know that squirrels gather nuts and store them safely for when times are hard or food is scarce.

What if we did the same, trying some simple meal prep tricks to build up a stash of healthy food ready for when we need it?

Those times when we’re so tired we can’t think what to have for dinner, so instead default “to let’s order a takeaway”?

Or when the faff of preparing something then being faced with the washing up just feels a step too far?

Or when we’ve been so busy with other life stuff that the fridge is empty except for half a jar of capers and a soggy cucumber?

The trouble with takeaways

A lack of time, mojo or brainspace can all lead us to call on the services of Dial-a-Dinner, and on occasion, that’s no bad thing at all.

The problem arises when things get tough. Faced with prolonged periods of stress or extended work hours, often the first thing to go is our self-care. Takeaway foods might taste ok but they can be high in salt, fat, and calories, with low nutritional content. Frequent take-outs can cause lethargy, weight gain and a real drain on the bank balance. Worse, this often comes at the times when we need our diet to support our wellbeing and performance, not drag us further down.

The solution?

Be more squirrel.

Simple ways to prep ahead

Plan ahead for the challenging times. The end of term, the full-on projects, the house move, covering for colleagues, additional caring responsibilities…

While you’re feeling perky and still up for cooking healthy meals, you could add in some simple meal prep:

• double up with batch cooking and freeze portions for when you need them, like chilli, curry, stew, pasta sauces, lasagne
• buy in some ready-made freezer staples. How about stir-fry veg, fish fingers (yum) and a couple of pizzas (you can always add salad if you have some)? Or a few decent ready-meals to have with frozen peas and broccoli? Convenience foods are there for a reason.
• have store-cupboard items in stock so you can assemble something nutritious and lovely in the time it takes to wait for Deliveroo. Try wholewheat pasta, tinned tomatoes with garlic and herbs, tinned tuna and a few tins of beans – done!

This way, you can still enjoy the takeaways every so often, but they stay as more of a treat rather than being your default dinner.

Meanwhile you’ll be supporting your immune system, maintaining your energy levels and keeping your weight where you want it. Ooh yes, and saving a few quid too. Wins all round!

Tufty would be very proud.

For more ideas, personalised for your own specific circumstances and preferences, try a Clarity Coaching Session so you can get ahead whenever you need to.