Master Your Week with Simple Meal Planning
Meal planning saves time and reduces decision fatigue. With a short weekly routine you can cook less, eat better, and free up evenings for work or family.
Sunday Setup (45–75 minutes)
- Choose three dinners and one adaptable lunch base (grains or salad greens).
- Batch-cook one protein and one grain; roast a tray of vegetables.
- Portion into containers for quick reheating.
Core strategies
- Theme nights: repeatable patterns (e.g., pasta Monday, stir-fry Wednesday) simplify choices.
- Mix-and-match bases: cook one grain and swap proteins or sauces for variety.
- Double recipes: freeze half for an easy week later.
- Keep a short staples list: canned beans, frozen veg, basic spices.
Smart Shopping and Prep
Write the list from your plan, shop for items used in multiple recipes, and avoid impulse buys by sticking to categories (produce, protein, pantry). Prep ingredients as you unpack groceries: wash greens, trim veggies, and pre-measure snacks.
Quick habits that stick
- Use a single document or app for your weekly template.
- Reserve one night for leftovers or a simple frozen meal.
- Adjust portions to avoid waste and save money.
Start small: plan two dinners and build confidence. Consistency matters more than perfection — a short planning routine each week creates steady savings in time and stress.
Tags
Life Hack