In today’s world, making meals quickly is key to staying healthy. The right tools can make cooking faster, save time, and help you eat the right amount. Whether you cook a lot or just want to make things easier, good tools can help a lot. This article will show you seven essential tools for meal prep. They will change how you plan and cook meals, making them delicious and stress-free. Let’s explore the top tools to make your cooking better and your week more organized.
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Table of Contents
What is meal prep and is it worth it?
Meal prep means preparing meals ahead of time. It saves time, reduces stress, and helps you eat better. Instead of rushing to make meals on busy days, you plan and cook on weekends. This way, you have meals ready to go.
Meal prepping involves cooking large batches of food and then mixing and matching them to make different meals. This strategy prevents you from eating out as much or from grabbing unhealthy snacks when you’re busy. Plus you can enjoy your evenings with family or hobbies, knowing that dinner is ready.
Prepping your meal ingredients ahead of time also makes shopping and budgeting easier. You simply plan your desired meals and make a list, avoiding impulse buys.
Meal prep is more than cooking; it’s a popular lifestyle among those who care about their health and have busy lives. When you plan and prepare your meals ahead of time, it’s easier to control your diet and make better food choices. But, whether it’s worth it depends on your personal situation and what you like.
Meal prep isn’t for everyone. Some might find it too strict or boring. It can be hard if your schedule changes a lot. But if you like cooking and want to eat better, it might be good for you.
How do you start with meal prep?
So you want to start meal prepping but don’t know where to begin? Here are a few tips:
First, figure out why you want to do it. Do you want to save time, eat healthier, or spend less on takeout? Knowing your reasons helps you plan better.
Then, get the right tools. Good containers and kitchen gear make prep easier. A scale like the arboleaf food scale below helps with portion sizes, and a tidy kitchen keeps you focused.
As you get better, try new recipes and adjust your plan. You’ll find a rhythm that makes healthy eating easy and stress-free.
7 essential tools for a successful meal prep
1. Silicone meal prep freezer molds
Best soup freezing companion
Souper Cubes Cranberry Freezer Molds
The Souper Cubes 1 Cup Silicone Freezer Molds are a game-changer for meal prep enthusiasts. With their vibrant cranberry color and thoughtful design, these silicone freezer trays are perfect for storing soups, sauces, desserts, and more. Each mold features a lid that seals tightly, preventing freezer burn and keeping food fresh for longer. The flexibility of the silicone makes it easy to pop out individual portions, allowing users to enjoy perfectly-sized servings whenever they need.
The 2-pack offers great value, making it easy to batch-cook and store a variety of meals. Customers have praised these containers for their durability and ease of use, noting that they hold their shape well in the freezer while being easy to clean. Whether you’re a busy parent or someone who simply enjoys cooking ahead, the Souper Cubes molds are an essential addition to any kitchen, simplifying the process of food storage and meal prep.
Best Soup Freezer Container
Souper Cubes 2 Cup Freezer Molds
The Souper Cubes 2 Cup Silicone Freezer Molds have revolutionized meal prep for home cooks and busy individuals alike. This 2-pack set, featuring vibrant blueberry coloring, offers spacious compartments that are perfect for freezing soups, stocks, and various other meals without the mess typically associated with traditional containers. The flexible silicone material ensures easy removal of frozen contents, while the accompanying lids help prevent spillage and freezer burn.
Users have praised the molds for their durability and ease of use, making meal prepping a breeze. The convenient measurement markings on the sides also allow for precise portion control, enhancing overall cooking efficiency. With these molds, home chefs are able to whip up their favorite dishes in advance and enjoy the convenience of ready-to-go meals. Overall, the Souper Cubes molds are a fantastic investment for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine while maintaining flavor and freshness.
Best Freezing Tray for Small Amounts
Souper Cubes Silicone Freezer Molds
The Souper Cubes 2 Tbsp Silicone Freezer Molds with Lids offer a fantastic solution for anyone looking to simplify their meal prep and storage. With its vibrant cranberry hue and clever design, this two-pack set is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Made from high-quality silicone, these molds are perfect for freezing small portions of baby food, pesto, tomato paste, and other liquids. The lids create an airtight seal, preventing unwanted freezer burn and ensuring that every bite retains its fresh taste and texture.
Users have praised the Souper Cubes for their versatility and ease of use—simply fill the molds, secure the lids, and pop them in the freezer. Once frozen, the individual cubes release easily, making it simple to portion out just the right amount for any meal. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home chef looking to streamline food preparation, these molds are a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Highly recommended for their practicality and durability, the Souper Cubes truly shine as an essential tool for organized and efficient cooking.
Best Silicone Freezer Tray
Souper Cubes Silicone Freezer Mold
The Souper Cubes 1/2 Cup Silicone Freezer Mold in Cranberry is a game-changer for anyone looking to maximize their freezer space while preserving homemade meals. With its innovative design, this silicone tray allows users to freeze individual portions of soups, broths, salsas, and even baby food without the worry of freezer burn, thanks to its secure lids. The 1/2 cup size is perfect for those quick meals or snacks, making it easy to defrost exactly what you need with no waste.
Crafted from high-quality silicone, the mold is not only durable but also flexible, simplifying the process of popping out frozen cubes. Customers have praised its bright color, which adds a fun touch to their kitchen, as well as its ease of cleaning – simply toss it in the dishwasher after use. Overall, the Souper Cubes silicone freezer tray is a convenient and versatile solution for meal prepping, making it a must-have for busy households looking to eat healthier without sacrificing time or flavor.
2. Storage jars
Best glass jar for overnight oats
DRKIO Overnight Oats Containers
The DRKIO 4 Pack Overnight Oats Containers are a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their meal prep routine. With a generous 16 oz capacity, these glass mason jars are perfect for storing overnight oats, cereal, yogurt, and even salads. Each container comes with a tight-fitting lid that guarantees a leak-proof seal, making them ideal for on-the-go meals or simply storing in the fridge. The addition of handy spoons ensures that users can enjoy their meals anywhere, without the need for extra utensils.
Beyond functionality, the sleek design of the glass jars is visually appealing and eco-friendly, a perfect match for those aiming for a more sustainable lifestyle. The DRKIO brand has clearly prioritized both practicality and style, making meal prepping not just easy but enjoyable. Ideal for busy individuals or families, these containers offer a versatile solution to mealtime organization.
3. Vegetable slicer
The best mandoline for vegetables
ONCE FOR ALL Mandoline Slicer
The ONCE FOR ALL Safe Mandoline Slicer is a standout addition to any kitchen, revolutionizing meal prep with its impressive versatility and safety features. With adjustable thickness settings ranging from 0.1 to 8 mm, users can effortlessly slice vegetables to their desired specifications. This professional-grade slicer makes quick work of potatoes, cucumbers, and more, allowing home cooks to prepare dishes with precision and ease.
Safety is a paramount feature of this mandoline; the design includes protective gloves and a hand guard, minimizing the risk of cuts and enabling confident, hassle-free slicing. Crafted for durability and efficiency, the slicer promises to save time in the kitchen without compromising on quality. Overall, the ONCE FOR ALL Safe Mandoline Slicer serves as an invaluable kitchen artifact for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, transforming how they approach food preparation.
4. Vacuum sealer
The best handheld vacuum sealer
Chef Preserve Vacuum Sealer
The vacuum sealer from the Chef Preserve Store is a remarkable addition to any kitchen, ideally suited for both casual cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike. This user-friendly model comes with 30 bags, making it easy to start preserving food right out of the box. Its sleek design and straightforward operation, featuring a simple one-touch sealing button, allow users to quickly vacuum seal fruits, meats, and even leftovers, ensuring they stay fresh longer. The vacuum sealer not only reduces food waste but also helps enhance flavors through marination, making it an essential tool for food prep and storage.
In terms of performance, this vacuum sealer excels, delivering a tight seal every time. Users have noted its reliability and durability, as it maintains consistent suction power, preventing air from spoiling their precious ingredients. Additionally, the versatility of the included bags caters to various storage needs, whether for sous vide cooking or meal prepping. Overall, the Chef Preserve Store’s vacuum sealer is highly recommended for anyone looking to elevate their food storage game and enjoy the benefits of preservation in their daily cooking routine.
5. Cutting board and graters for meal prep
Best Cutting Board with Containers
Acacia Cutting Board with Containers & Lids
The Acacia Cutting Board with Containers & Lids from the Granted By Grace Store is a game-changer for any kitchen enthusiast. This innovative board meal prep system not only boasts an elegant acacia wood surface but also includes four versatile graters and two additional plastic chopping boards specifically designed for meat. The thoughtful design features juice grooves that catch excess liquid, ensuring a mess-free experience while preparing ingredients.
Customers rave about the convenience of having integrated containers and lids, making it easy to organize and store cut vegetables and garnishes right after chopping. The sturdy build of this cutting board provides excellent durability, while the multiple functionalities significantly reduce prep time. Overall, the Acacia Cutting Board with Containers & Lids is an essential addition to any kitchen, providing both style and efficiency for a seamless cooking experience.
6. On-the-go food storage
Best stackable bento box
KARRICO Holiday Bento Box
The Double Premium Bento Box from KARRICO offers an impressive solution for meal prep enthusiasts and busy individuals alike. With a generous 67 fl oz capacity and a sleek black design, this BPA-free lunch box is not only stylish but also highly functional. The stackable feature is a game-changer, allowing for easy storage and transport, while the leak-proof lids ensure that meals remain intact, whether at work or on the go. The included dividers grant flexibility in portion control and help keep different foods separate, making it an excellent choice for holiday lunches or an organized Christmas meal prep.
Customers have praised the KARRICO Bento Box for its durability and ease of cleaning, making it a staple for anyone looking to take control of their portion sizes without sacrificing variety in their diet. The thoughtful design and practical features undoubtedly make it a favorite among those who prioritize both convenience and health. Overall, this bento box has earned its place as a reliable companion for anyone who enjoys meal planning and festive culinary experiences.
7. Food scale
Best kitchen scale for weight loss
arboleaf Kitchen Scale
The arboleaf Food Scale is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially for those who are health-conscious or looking to manage their weight. With a capacity of up to 22 pounds (10 kg) and precise measurements down to 0.1 ounces (0.5 grams), this digital kitchen scale offers accuracy that is hard to beat. Its sleek design makes it an aesthetically pleasing tool to have on display, while its easy-to-read LCD screen simplifies the weighing process, ensuring that users can measure their ingredients with confidence.
Additionally, the smart gram scale is perfect for portion control, aiding in meal prep for those following specific diets. It’s not just a practical kitchen gadget; it also makes a thoughtful gift for anyone committed to cooking and healthy living. Overall, the arboleaf Food Scale is a reliable and stylish solution for precise food measurement, making it a worthy investment for any home chef.
Why should you try meal prep?
Meal prep changes how you cook and eat, making your life better. It saves money, reduces waste, and helps you eat healthier. No more last-minute takeout or bad snacks!
Meal prep saves a lot of time during the week. You choose one day to cook meals in bulk, and then reheat them for the rest of the week. This reduces stress and lets you do other things you enjoy. It makes your daily routine smoother.
Meal prep also lets you control what you eat. You plan meals that fit your diet, making sure they’re balanced and tasty. It’s also cheaper because you buy more ingredients at once. As you get better at it, you can try new recipes and ingredients.
What can you meal prep?
Proteins like chicken, beef, tofu, and legumes are great for meal prep. They can be cooked in many ways and used in different meals. Hard-boiled eggs and overnight oats are also quick breakfast options.
Carbohydrates like quinoa, brown rice, and whole grain pasta are essential. They provide energy and add variety to your meals. Cooking carbohydrates in large batches helps keep a reliable base ready.
Vegetables are key in a healthy meal prep. Roasting, steaming, or sautéing them ahead of time boosts nutrition and flavor. Storing them in airtight containers makes them easy to add to various dishes.
Don’t forget about snacks! Preparing nuts, seeds, yogurt, or fruits in advance can curb cravings without harming your health goals. With a bit of creativity, meal prep can make eating enjoyable and healthy.
How long does meal prep food last?
Meal prep is a time-saving strategy for healthier eating. But, how long does meal prep food stay good? The answer varies based on ingredients, cooking methods, and storage. Generally, meal prep can last three to seven days in the fridge.
Food safety is critical when meal prepping. Cooked proteins should be eaten within three to four days if stored in the fridge. Vegetables can last up to a week if stored properly. Airtight containers help keep food fresh and prevent spoilage.
Freezing is another great way to extend meal prep’s shelf life. Frozen meals can last three to six months. Portion meals before freezing to defrost only what you need. Frozen meals should be consumed within two to three months for best taste and texture.
Best practices and tips for meal planning and prep
- Choose recipes that you like and that cover different food groups.
Make a shopping list and buy ingredients in bulk to save money and reduce grocery trips. When you get home, wash, chop, and prep your ingredients to make cooking easier. Focus on versatile ingredients like grilled chicken, roasted veggies, and whole grains for easy meal swaps. - Batch cooking staples like grains, proteins, and roasted vegetables is a smart move.
It lets you make different meals all week long. For example, cooking a big batch of quinoa or brown rice can be used in salads, stir-fries, or bowls. Grilling chicken or baking tofu in bulk gives you protein for any dish. - Good storage containers are key for meal prep.
Choose stackable, portion-sized containers that are safe for microwaving. Label each container with the meal name and date to stay organized and avoid waste. Cooking similar meals in bulk, like a big pot of soup or stir-fry, and then dividing them into portions can make weeknight dinners a breeze. - Mix things up in your meal prep routine.
Try new recipes, spices, sauces, and cooking methods every few weeks. This keeps your meals exciting and prevents boredom. By putting in a little effort upfront, you’ll save time and make healthier choices all week long. - Meal prep should be flexible.
Life can change suddenly, so adjust your plans if needed. Meal prep is meant to help, not stress you out. Being flexible lets you enjoy the benefits of planning without feeling trapped.
Take the guesswork out of your daily meals
Adding meal prep to your routine can really improve your life. It makes cooking easier, helps you eat healthier, and gives you more time. By investing in the right tools, you can streamline your cooking process and eliminate unnecessary stress from your daily routine. So if you’re thinking about trying it, it might just make your week easier and better for you.