11 Healthy Meal Prep Ideas To Simplify Your Week

Meal prepping is a fantastic way to stay on track with your health goals and save time during busy weekdays. By dedicating a few hours to prepare meals in advance, you can ensure that you always have nutritious options readily available. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 11 healthy and easy meal prep recipes and ideas that are both delicious and convenient. Let’s dive in!

My Healthy Eating Motto:

I do not focus on “what can I cut out to be healthy” I focus on “what can I add in to be healthy?”. These are very different ways of thinking, and if you can shift your paradigm in the way you look at food you will see happier results in your mental health and your body.

What do I mean by adding instead of taking?

Let’s say you are looking for a healthy breakfast. Instead of not eating pancakes because they are “bad for you”, I like to add cottage cheese into my pancakes to give me a boost of protein, calcium, and probiotics. Instead of not eating a sandwich for lunch because “bread is bad” I add in lots of meat, fresh veggies, and avocado for a hunger crushing and satiating meal.

Try this way of thinking and let me know if you see any positive changes in your life.

What types of meals will you find in this post?

Meals that save money

Meal prepping healthy meals is not only a smart way to prioritize your well-being, but it can also help you save a significant amount of money. By taking the time to plan and prepare your meals in advance, you eliminate the temptation of ordering takeout or dining out, which can quickly drain your wallet.

Buying ingredients in bulk and utilizing seasonal produce further reduces costs. Additionally, meal prepping allows you to take advantage of sales and discounts, making your grocery shopping more budget-friendly. By adopting this cost-effective habit, you can enjoy nutritious and delicious homemade meals while keeping your finances in check.

Meals that save time

Meal prepping healthy meals is a game-changer when it comes to saving time and maintaining a nutritious diet. In today’s fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity, and many individuals find themselves resorting to unhealthy fast food or skipping meals altogether due to lack of time.

By dedicating a few hours each week to weekly meal prep, you can reclaim your time and ensure you always have nutritious meals readily available. It eliminates the need to make decisions about what to eat on a daily basis, reduces cooking and cleaning time, and allows you to stick to your health goals effortlessly.

With meal prepping, you can enjoy the benefits of time efficiency and a well-balanced diet, leading to a happier and healthier lifestyle.

Freezer-Friendly Meal Prep Ideas

The freezer is your best friend when it comes to healthy, meal prep recipes. I do not know why there is this stigma that frozen foods are lesser than unfrozen foods. The truth is they are just as healthy, if not more healthy because their nutrients are locked in place in the freezer. Freezing the food will not make it any less yummy. The freezer holds the flavor very well and as long as you store them properly so they cannot get freezer burn, you will have fresh food ready to enjoy waiting in your freezer.

All these meals can be frozen in some way to help make eating healthy that much easier for you and your family.

How to Meal Plan? and How to Meal Prep?

Are you tired of scrambling to put together meals at the last minute? Do you often find yourself resorting to unhealthy takeout or processed convenience foods? It’s time to take control of your nutrition and save both time and energy with meal planning and meal prepping. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to successfully meal plan and meal prep breakfast lunch and dinner together, helping you achieve your health goals while enjoying delicious, homemade meals.

1. Set Your Goals: Start by determining your health goals and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, or simply eat more nutritious meals, clarifying your objectives will guide your meal planning process.
2. Plan Your Meals: Create a weekly or monthly meal plan that incorporates a variety of balanced, nutrient-rich meals. Consider your schedule, taking into account busy days or events that may require adjustments. Look for recipes online, in cookbooks, or create your own based on your favorite ingredients. Aim for a mix of proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
3. Make a Grocery List: Once you have your meal plan, make a comprehensive grocery list. Organize it by food groups or sections of the grocery store to streamline your shopping experience. Stick to the list and avoid impulse purchases to save time and money.
4. Batch Cooking: Choose a day or time when you can dedicate a few hours to batch cooking. Prepare larger quantities of proteins, grains, and roasted or steamed vegetables that can be easily portioned and stored. This ensures you have a variety of ready-to-eat components that can be mixed and matched for different meals.
5. Portion and Store: Invest in high-quality storage containers that are freezer and microwave-safe. Divide your prepared ingredients into individual or family-sized portions, labeling them with the name and date. Properly stored, your meals can last up to a week in the refrigerator or several months in the freezer.
6. Mix and Match: When it’s time to eat, simply combine your prepped ingredients to create a well-balanced meal. Get creative with seasonings, sauces, and toppings to keep things interesting. By having all the components ready to go, you can whip up a nutritious meal in minutes, avoiding the temptation of unhealthy options.
7. Stay Organized and Flexible: Keep track of your meal plan and adjust it as needed. Be open to trying new recipes and adapting to changing dietary needs. Consider dedicating a specific day each week to plan, shop, and prep to establish a routine that works for you.

My favorite Meal Prep Containers

I love the glassware boxes for meal prepping food. However what you have will work. I just find that glass makes these easier for transferring to the oven or microwave for reheating. Here are some amazing glassware meal prep containers.

Containers for meal prepping for dinner:

I have several glass and ceramic dishes that I use to cook my dinner meals in if I am making a meal and eating It the same night. For my more healthy meal prep recipes and ideas, I like to use single use dishes. They fit in the freezer better and I do not have to worry about where my dishes are running off to. This also makes labeling easier.

My favorite foods to add to my meals for additional macronutrients and micronutrients:

Cottage Cheese:

Cottage cheese is a versatile dairy product that offers several health benefits. It is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The high protein content helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it a good choice for weight management. Additionally, cottage cheese is rich in calcium, which supports bone health. It also contains B vitamins, such as riboflavin and vitamin B12, which are important for energy production and overall well-being. The probiotics found in some cottage cheese varieties contribute to gut health by promoting a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria.

Avocado:

Avocados are nutrient-dense fruits that provide numerous health benefits. They are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Avocados also contain fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin E, potassium, and folate. These nutrients contribute to healthy skin, support immune function, and play a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. Avocados also contain antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties.

Flax Seeds:

Flax seeds are small seeds that are loaded with nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health. Flax seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels. They also contain lignans, which are antioxidant compounds that may have potential cancer-fighting properties. Flax seeds are a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, thiamine, magnesium, and manganese, contributing to overall well-being.

Coconut Oil:

Coconut oil is a plant-based oil that has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. It contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digested and can be used as a quick source of energy. Some studies suggest that MCTs may help with weight management by increasing satiety and boosting metabolism. Coconut oil also has antimicrobial properties and may have a positive impact on gut health. However, it is important to consume coconut oil in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.

Protein Powder:

Protein powders are a convenient way to supplement your protein intake, especially for those who have increased protein needs or struggle to meet their requirements through whole foods alone. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and recovery. It plays a crucial role in supporting a healthy metabolism and can aid in weight management by promoting satiety. Protein powders come in various forms such as whey, casein, soy, and plant-based options like pea, rice, or hemp protein. They are a convenient post-workout option and can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods to increase protein content in your diet.

It’s important to note that individual nutritional needs and sensitivities may vary. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice and recommendations.

Healthy Meal Prep Ideas for Breakfast

1. Cottage Cheese Pancakes

You can make these 100% from scratch or you can just add cottage cheese into any pre-made pancake mix. We typically take this super common pancake mix, we blend the cottage cheese so it’s not clumpy and we just add it to the batter. Here is a recipe you can try if you want to make them from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup flour (can use all-purpose or whole wheat)
• 1 tablespoon sugar or sweetener of choice (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture will have a slightly lumpy texture due to the cottage cheese. You can also blend the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor before if you want to make it smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly coat the surface with cooking spray or butter.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread and shape the batter into a round pancake.
4. Cook the pancakes for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Flip the pancakes when bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges appear set. Adjust the heat if needed to prevent burning.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as necessary. This recipe should yield about 8-10 pancakes, depending on the size.
6. Serve the cottage cheese pancakes warm with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, maple syrup, yogurt, or a dollop of nut butter make delicious accompaniments.

Note: You can customize the pancakes by adding additional ingredients such as cinnamon, lemon zest, or a handful of blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor.

Enjoy these fluffy and protein-packed cottage cheese pancakes as a wholesome breakfast or brunch option!

2. Egg Bites

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (you can use dairy or plant-based milk) or you can add cottage cheese instead
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
• 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup diced cooked ham or bacon (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with silicone muffin cups for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk. Whisk them together until well combined.
3. Add the shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, diced ham or bacon (if using), and chopped chives or green onions to the egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir everything together until evenly distributed.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
5. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the egg bites are set and slightly golden on top. You can test their doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of one egg bite. If it comes out clean, they are ready.
6. Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the egg bites cool for a few minutes. Use a spoon or knife to gently remove them from the muffin tin. If you used silicone muffin cups, simply push the bottom of each cup to release the egg bites.
7. Serve the baked egg bites warm as a delicious and portable breakfast or snack option. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, or different types of cheeses. Enjoy your homemade baked egg bites!

3. Overnight Oats

Sure! Here’s a recipe for Overnight Oats:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., berries, sliced bananas, nuts, seeds, or nut butter)

Instructions:

1. In a jar or airtight container, combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir the mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Seal the jar or container and refrigerate it overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This allows the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
4. The next morning, give the oats a good stir to mix everything together. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a splash of milk at this stage.
5. Top the oats with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, sliced bananas, nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of nut butter.
6. Enjoy the overnight oats straight from the jar or transfer them to a bowl if preferred.

Note: Overnight oats can be made in larger batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making them a convenient grab-and-go breakfast option for busy mornings.

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding flavors like cinnamon, cocoa powder, or extracts like almond or coconut. Experiment with different combinations of toppings to keep your overnight oats exciting and delicious!

Healthy Lunch Ideas

4. Chicken Nugget Salad

You can make this as fancy or as simple as you want. As a busy mom this is what I do:

Ingredients:

• 1 store bot salad mix
• my favorite poppyseed dressing
• chicken nuggets cut up (The same as what my kid is eating)
• Avocado and any veggies I have on hand

Instructions:

• Cook the nuggets in the air fryer, Mix it up and enjoy!

You can use pre cooked grilled nuggets from the frozen section at the store, you can grill your own chicken ahead of time, you can even use a can of chicken. Whatever you have time for and whatever is yummy to you.

5. Chicken Salad Sandwiches, wraps, or salad

Ingredients:

• 3 chicken breasts (more if you want to make a bigger batch)
• Chicken broth
• seasons (I use Italian seating, garlic powder, salt, pepper)
• Mayo
• Grapes
• Celery

Instructions:

• Put the raw chicken and the chicken broth in your instant pot. Add enough broth to cover the bottom of the pot so the chicken doesn’t burn to the bottom. Cook the chicken breats with the chicken setting on your instant pot.
• Shred the chicken when it is finished in a food processer or by hand.
• Combine all the ingredients to taste and enjoy!
• Notes: Is good when stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you do not have an instant pot you can use boiled chicken, baked chicken, or canned chicken.

6. Taco Bowl or Burrito

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for garnish
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and onions are translucent.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. If using a leaner meat, you may not need to drain excess fat. If using a fattier meat, drain the excess fat from the skillet.
3. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the ground beef. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add the drained black beans and corn kernels to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir to combine and heat through for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, prepare your toppings. Slice the cherry tomatoes, black olives, bell peppers, and avocado. Chop fresh cilantro. Set aside.
6. To assemble the taco bowls, start with a base layer of cooked quinoa or rice in each bowl. Top with the ground beef mixture, followed by cherry tomatoes, black olives, bell peppers, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.
7. Garnish each taco bowl with a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness. If desired, add optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, or hot sauce.
8. Serve the taco bowls immediately and enjoy the flavorful combination of textures and flavors. Mix everything together before eating, if desired.

Note: Feel free to customize your taco bowl with additional ingredients like diced red onions sliced avocado, jalapeños, or your favorite salsa. You can also substitute or add other vegetables, such as sautéed zucchini or roasted sweet potatoes, based on your preferences.

I like to cook my ground beef and store it

Healthy Dinner Ideas

7. Teriyaki Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish with cooking spray or lightly coat with oil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to make the teriyaki sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce, whisking well.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked brown rice, steamed broccoli florets, sliced red bell pepper, carrot, and diced pineapple. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken and rice mixture. Toss to coat everything with the sauce, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through and the flavors meld together.
7. Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
8. Garnish the teriyaki chicken casserole with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.
9. Serve the casserole hot, and enjoy!

Note: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or water chestnuts. You can also top the casserole with additional teriyaki sauce or sriracha for an extra kick of flavor.

8. Lasagna Casserole

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, overlapping slightly.
6. Spread half of the remaining meat sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
7. Place another layer of 3 lasagna noodles on top of the cheese. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the noodles.
8. Add another layer of 3 lasagna noodles, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
11. Serve the Lasagna Casserole warm and enjoy its delicious layers of flavors.

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 servings, depending on portion size. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your homemade Lasagna Casserole!

9. Cauliflower Pizza

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized cauliflower head
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• Your favorite pizza toppings (e.g., tomato sauce, vegetables, meats, additional cheese)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash the cauliflower head and remove the outer leaves. Cut it into florets and place them in a food processor. Pulse until the cauliflower is finely grated and resembles rice-like grains.
3. Transfer the grated cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft. Allow it to cool slightly before handling.
4. Once the cauliflower has cooled, transfer it to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy cauliflower crust.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed cauliflower, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
6. Place the cauliflower mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly, forming a round or rectangular shape to resemble a pizza crust. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
7. Bake the cauliflower crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and starts to crisp up around the edges.
8. Once the crust is golden, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. At this point, you can add your favorite pizza toppings such as tomato sauce, vegetables, meats, and additional cheese.
9. Return the topped pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Carefully remove the cauliflower pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade cauliflower pizza as a delicious gluten free, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza crust.

Healthy Snack Ideas

10. Protein Balls/Energy Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup nut butter (e.g., almond butter, peanut butter)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate flavor)
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, protein powder, chia seeds, dark chocolate chips (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
2. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little more nut butter or honey/maple syrup to achieve a sticky consistency. If it’s too wet, add more oats or protein powder.
3. Once the mixture is well combined and sticky, place it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to firm up slightly. This will make it easier to roll into balls.
4. After chilling, take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form bite-sized balls. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
6. If desired, you can further enhance the taste and texture by rolling the balls in additional chia seeds, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts.
7. Once all the balls are formed, return them to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set and firm up.
8. After the protein balls have hardened, transfer them to an airtight container or storage bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for longer storage.

These protein balls are perfect as a pre- or post-workout snack, on-the-go energy boost, a filling meal or a healthy treat any time of the day. Enjoy the nutritious goodness and the burst of energy they provide!

Note: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other mix-ins like dried fruits, seeds, or spices according to your preference.

11. Cottage cheese ice cream

Ingredients

• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 1 cup milk (you can use your preferred type of milk, such as whole milk or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust the sweetness according to your preference)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional mix-ins or toppings: fresh berries, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, etc.

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more honey or maple syrup. You can also add more milk if you prefer a slightly thinner consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The churning process usually takes about 20-30 minutes, but it may vary depending on your ice cream maker.
4. If desired, add any mix-ins during the last few minutes of churning. This could include fresh berries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips. Allow the ice cream maker to mix them in evenly.
5. Once the ice cream has reached a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a lidded container. If you prefer a firmer texture, place the container in the freezer for an additional 2-3 hours.
6. When ready to serve, scoop the cottage cheese ice cream into bowls or cones. You can also top it with additional fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for added flavor and presentation.
7. Enjoy your homemade cottage cheese ice cream immediately, or store it in the freezer for later use. It can be kept in the freezer for up to a week, but it’s best to consume it within a few days for the freshest taste and texture.

Note: Cottage cheese ice cream has a slightly different texture compared to traditional ice cream made with heavy cream. It will have a slightly tangy flavor and a lighter consistency. However, it is a nutritious and refreshing alternative that is lower in fat and higher in protein.

I made this in my ice cream maker and it was amazing! If you like ice cream I would suggest getting an ice cream maker because they come in handy, but you can still make this without any appliances if you have a freezer.

12. Chia seed pudding

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred milk)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional toppings: fresh fruits, nuts, shredded coconut, or granola

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
2. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes and then give it another good stir. This prevents clumping of chia seeds.
3. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and form a pudding-like consistency.
4. After the pudding has set, give it a final stir to break up any clumps and evenly distribute the chia seeds.
5. Serve the chia seed pudding in individual bowls or jars. Add your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruits, nuts, shredded coconut, or granola, for added texture and flavor.
6. Enjoy the chia seed pudding immediately, or store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pudding will thicken slightly as it sits, so you can add a splash of milk if desired before serving.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa powder, cinnamon, or other extracts to customize your chia seed pudding. This versatile and nutritious pudding makes a great breakfast, snack, or healthy dessert option. Enjoy!

This is basically what my family eats every week. I hope this was helpful to you and even if you do not try any of these recipes I hope this helped inspire you to make yourself some yummy food!