A serious sweet tooth can derail even the strongest willed. So how do you let yourself indulge without shoving your diet off track? By incorporating healthy treats into your meal prep routine. Chocolate strawberry overnight oats at breakfast can quell a chocoholic's rumbling tummy, or a no-bake energy bar can provide a sugar fix during snacktime. Just be sure to balance these higher-cal treats with a lean protein and veggies. Who said clean eating can't be delicious?
Can't stomach the thought of another boring salad or ho-hum sandwich? These zesty southwest turkey-stuffed peppers pull you out of your lunch or dinner rut and prove you can pre-plan meals you'll be excited to eat. Your body will thank you too, as these guys pack a whopping helping of protein, plus carbs and fiber to fill you up. Round out your meal with a berry chicken salad topped with goat cheese crumbles, pecans and balsamic vinaigrette. Bland? We think not.
Meal prepping doesn't have to take upwards of three to four hours. To save time, focus your culinary efforts on your main dish, and stick with simple sides like freshly cut cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, or an apple, pear or avocado. You can dress them up with a scoop of your favorite nut butter or hummus.
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Grab n' Go Green Smoothie
Like with anything in life, it's always smart to have an insurance policy. That's why you'll want to have back-up meals and snacks you can store in your freezer for the days you're short a meal or had to skip prep. This easy-peasy green smoothie recipe takes five minutes to prep and packs all sorts of good-for-you ingredients. Simply toss berries, bananas, kale and spinach in a plastic bag and store it in your freezer. When you're ready, just add the contents of the bag and your liquid of choice (think: almond milk) to a blender, and your smoothie's ready to go. Just make sure you use your frozen goods within 30 days.
Overnight oats might be the perfect breakfast food. They offer all the benefits of a hearty breakfast (think: hunger-curbing carbs and heart-helping fiber), but don't require slaving over a griddle. Plus, you can easily side-step palate fatigue by getting creative with your toppings. Feeling healthy? Go for with antioxidant-rich fruits or healthy fats by way of pecans and pumpkin seeds. Want something classic? Sprinkle on a spoonful of granola and blueberries. Want to indulge? Try peanut butter and mini dark chocolate chips. The possibilities are nearly endless.
