Summer is a busy time for everyone, especially for moms juggling multiple responsibilities. However, with a little planning and meal prepping, you can save time and ensure your family enjoys delicious and nutritious meals this season. Read on to explore ten easy meal prepping ideas.
Breakfast/Snacks:
Smoothies
Blend your favorite smoothie combinations for the perfect on-the-go breakfast or snack. I am partial to mangos and pineapples this time of year but you can add whatever you like. Choose your favorite milk, throw in fresh or frozen fruit, mix in some greens, protein powder, and maybe some coconut and/or seeds to round it out. The great thing about this is there are unlimited combinations, so you do you!
If I know I have a busy morning, I love to prepare my smoothies the night before as I am cleaning up after dinner. That way I can just grab and go in the morning for a refreshing and nutritious breakfast or snack that you can take anywhere.
Overnight Oats
Beat the heat with overnight oats. Combine oats, milk of your choice, and your favorite toppings like berries, nuts, seeds, spices, and/or honey. Store the mixture in individual containers overnight, and enjoy a ready-to-eat breakfast in the morning.
Veggie Packed Egg Cups
Whip up a batch of egg cups filled with an assortment of vegetables, cheese, and eggs. Bake them in advance in a well-greased muffin pan, and refrigerate or freeze for a quick, protein-packed meal or snack. If I am being honest, we love these for breakfast, lunch, and dinner too!
Fruit Parfaits
Layer fresh fruits, yogurt, and granola in jars or containers. These refreshing and nutritious parfaits can be made ahead of time and enjoyed as breakfast, a snack or even dessert.
Lunch:
Mason Jar Salads
Prepare colorful salads in mason jars by layering greens, protein (grilled chicken, hard boiled eggs, or chickpeas are some of my favorites), and various toppings. These portable salads can be made in advance and enjoyed anywhere.
Bonus tip: Prepare in layers to optimize freshness. Dressing on the bottom, hard veggies or protein to create a barrier, then all your softer veggies on top where they can stay dry and fresh.
Pictured below is my lunch for today, Mason Jar Cobb Salad. Bottom layer is ranch dressing, then I added cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion to marinate in the dressing a bit. My next layer was my proteins. Hard-boiled egg, chicken (leftover from last nights’ dinner), and a sprinkle of chopped bacon.
Last layer is my lettuce and when I sit down to eat this I will add avocado. On a day I am on the go I could go without the avocado or add just before I leave.
Pasta Salad
Prepare a large batch of pasta salad with colorful veggies, cheese, beans for protein and a flavorful dressing (I love Greek or Italian). This versatile dish can be served cold and can last for several days, making it an ideal option for busy moms. Add chicken and this could be a complete meal! Also, makes a quick and easy side to bring to a BBQ.
Dinner:
Grilled Protein and Veggie Skewers
This is my go-to dinner in the summer. You can switch out the meat to add variety. Marinate meat of your choosing. Select and chop your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, summer squash, and/or cherry tomatoes. Skewer and grill or bake in advance. These skewers can be easily reheated for a quick and flavorful summer meal. I love using the leftover grilled veggies in a salad the next day for lunch.
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Let your slow cooker do the work for you by preparing BBQ pulled pork while you are out enjoying your day. Simply season the pork shoulder, add your favorite BBQ sauce, and let it cook on low for several hours. Shred the meat and enjoy! Make a double batch and store it for sandwiches, salads, or taco fillings.
Grilled Veggie Wraps
Grill an array of vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. Slice them and store in the refrigerator. When needed, assemble delicious wraps with hummus or your favorite spread for a healthy and filling lunch or dinner.
Freezer Meals
Prepare and freeze complete meals such as casseroles, soups, or stir-fries. This way, you can simply reheat the meals on busy days, ensuring a home-cooked dinner without the hassle. Make a double batch of your family favorites and eat one the day you make it and freeze the extra batch. If you did this once a week you will always have a back-up for when things don’t quite go as planned or you just don’t feel like cooking.
Meal prepping during summer can be a lifesaver, especially for busy moms. By incorporating these ten easy ideas into your routine, you can save time, reduce stress, and provide your family with delicious and nutritious meals all summer long. Embrace the power of planning and enjoy a well-deserved break while ensuring your loved ones are well-fed and happy.
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Wishing you much love, health, and happiness,
Christine
