She Strengthens

Meal Prep on a Budget: Quick and Easy Recipes for Busy Days

As a busy professional, I’ve found myself sacrificing my weekly meal prep routine due to lack of time and energy. However, I still want to stick to my budget of $50 per week for groceries. To make it work, I’ve turned to convenient and affordable options at my local Trader Joe’s and bargain grocery outlet.

Semi-Pre-Made Dishes to the Rescue

I’ve discovered a range of semi-pre-made dishes that can be customized to fit my dietary needs and budget. These options have been a game-changer for me, saving time and energy while still providing healthy and delicious meals.

5-Ingredient Meal Prep Recipes

Here are four simple meal prep ideas that require five ingredients or less:

1. Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Using pre-marinated chicken shawarma from Trader Joe’s, I pair it with pita bread, hummus, tzatziki, and cherry tomatoes for a quick and healthy lunch. This meal prep takes only 30 minutes to prepare and costs around $25.

2. Pumpkin Bisque

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bisque is a staple in my meal prep routine during the fall season. I add grated parmesan cheese and crusty bread for a filling and comforting meal. This recipe costs around $16 and takes only 15 minutes to prepare.

3. Potstickers and Stir-Fry Veggies

Frozen potstickers and stir-fry vegetables are a convenient and affordable option for a quick meal prep. I add quinoa and General Tso’s Sauce from Trader Joe’s for extra flavor. This recipe costs between $15-25, depending on the additional garnishes.

4. Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a go-to meal prep option for me, requiring only tortillas, Mexican Blend cheese, pico de gallo, and avocados. This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare and costs between $10-20, depending on the toppings.

The Power of Frozen Foods

When I’m stressed and short on time, frozen foods have become my meal prep gold. They’re convenient, affordable, and can be customized to fit my dietary needs. My prior assumptions about frozen foods being unhealthy or not filling were proven false, and I’m grateful for these options.

By incorporating these quick and easy recipes into my meal prep routine, I’ve been able to maintain a sense of routine and prioritize my health, even on the busiest of days.