Easy Meal Prep for Two: Honey Garlic Shrimp & Southwest Chicken Bowls
Hello There!
Today, I’m excited to share a bit of my meal prep routine with you. Meal prepping can sometimes sound intimidating, but I promise it doesn’t have to be! By setting aside a little time to prepare meals in advance, you can enjoy delicious, semi-healthy dishes throughout the week without the stress of daily cooking. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to save money and ensure you eat well.
Why Meal Prep?
First off, why should you consider meal prepping? For me, it’s all about the balance of convenience and health. Having meals ready to go means I’m less likely to grab something unhealthy out of convenience. Also, cooking for two means I can tailor portions perfectly and reduce food waste. And let's not forget the financial benefits—prepping meals ahead can significantly cut your grocery bill and reduce the temptation to eat out.
Dish 1: Honey Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli
Let’s start with the first dish on the menu: Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli. This dish is one of my favorites because it’s quick, packed with flavor, and relatively healthy. Shrimp is a great source of protein and cooks in no time, making it perfect for meal prep. Warm quinoa is the perfect base for this dish.
Why You'll Love It:
Flavorful: The honey garlic sauce strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Quick: Shrimp cooks in minutes, so you can have this dish ready in no time.
Healthy: Packed with protein and light on calories.
Dish 2: Southwest Chicken and Brown Rice Bowls
Next up, we have Southwest Chicken and Brown Rice Bowls. This dish is a hearty, nutritious option that’s bursting with vibrant flavors. The combination of brown rice, black beans, corn, Jalapenos, and chicken is not only filling but also loaded with nutrients.
Why You'll Love It:
Nutritious: Brown rice and black beans provide a great source of fiber and protein.
Flavorful: The addition of peppers and lime gives it a refreshing, zesty kick.
Versatile: This bowl is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.
Simple Steps to Meal Prep Success
Plan Your Menu: Decide on a few dishes you want to prep for the week. Keeping it simple with two to three different meals can provide variety without overwhelming you.
Grocery Shop with a List: Write down all the ingredients you’ll need and stick to your list. This helps avoid unnecessary purchases and ensures you have everything you need.
Prep Ingredients: Dedicate some time to chopping vegetables, marinating proteins, and cooking grains. This makes the actual cooking process much quicker.
Cook in Batches: Use your time efficiently by cooking multiple items simultaneously. For example, while your rice is cooking, you can sauté shrimp or grill chicken.
Portion and Store: Divide your meals into portions and store them in airtight containers. This makes it easy to grab a meal on the go or reheat for a quick dinner.
I encourage everyone to try meal prepping not just for the convenience but also for the numerous benefits it offers. Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring you’re eating wholesome, nutritious food. It’s also a great way to save money and reduce the stress of figuring out what to eat every day.
Meal prepping for two doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With simple, delicious dishes like Honey Garlic Shrimp and Southwest Chicken and Brown Rice Bowls, you can enjoy a variety of healthy meals throughout the week. So, grab your apron, get into the kitchen, and start cooking for your health and wallet. I hope you find these tips helpful and that they inspire you to give meal prepping a try. Remember, the key is to keep it fun and manageable. Don’t forget to share your meal prep creations with me on social media using the hashtag #CookItForTwo. Let’s inspire each other to eat well and save money! Until next time, happy cooking!
Lord Bless You, Michelle