Furthering your education takes dedication, hard work, and focus. It is crucial that students prioritize their time so that they can successfully balance their personal lives with college responsibilities. One way to help busy students save valuable time is by meal prepping.
WVJC understands that many of our students must prepare for their families and balance their responsibilities outside of school. Preparing healthy meals in advance can help students save time and money so they can focus on their education and families. Continue reading to discover how you can start meal prepping and some of WVJC’s favorite make-ahead meals!
Why Should You Meal Prep?
Meal prepping is an excellent way to ensure that students have a healthy meal option during their busiest days. For example, if you know you have several evening activities on a specific day, you can reheat a frozen meal to save time and energy. This can help you avoid eating fast food out of convenience, and it can also save you money.
Having nutritious meals prepared in advance will help you support your physical and mental health without the stress of cooking every day. As a student, fueling your brain with healthy foods that will make a lasting difference in your academic abilities is important. The American Dining Creations found that students who ate poor diets had a lack of energy and focus, lower grades, poor memory and concentration, and a disrupted sleep schedule, which are all things that college students need to avoid.
How To Prepare Balanced Meals
Eating nutritious and balanced meals has many benefits, including improving your performance in college and creating healthy habits throughout life. According to MyPlate, a balanced meal consists of protein, grains, dairy, vegetables, and fruits. Incorporating these five food groups into your meal planning can help you form meals that help you stay healthy, focused, and ready to learn.
MyPlate also offers a free online quiz that allows you to discover what portions of each food group you need to make every bite count toward your goals. Knowing this information can help you adapt your meals to fit your individual nutritional needs. WVJC has gathered eight of our favorite simple meals that are great to make in advance and can be modified to meet your goals, lifestyle, and budget. Keep reading to learn your next favorite meal!
WVJC’s Meal Prepping Ideas
Breakfast
- Muffin Tin Omelets by Eating Well
Mini omelets, also known as muffin-tin omelets or egg muffins, are a convenient and nutritious breakfast option. They are made by combining eggs with various proteins, dairy, and vegetables. Once cooked, the omelets can be stored in the freezer and reheated as needed. This method is efficient for meal prep and ensures you have a quick, balanced breakfast ready to go.
- Overnight Oats by Food Network
Overnight oats offer a straightforward and healthy breakfast choice. By starting with a basic oat recipe, you can customize it with your favorite fruits, spices, and spreads to suit your taste. Incorporating grains, fruits, and proteins into your morning routine helps ensure a balanced start to your day, keeping you focused and energized.
- Breakfast Casserole by Sally’s Baking Recipes
This breakfast casserole is perfect for anyone needing a quick, hearty meal that yields multiple servings. Its straightforward base combines dairy, protein, grains, and vegetables, offering a tasty and convenient way to include several food groups in your breakfast.
Lunch
- Chicken Cobb Wraps by Better Homes & Gardens
This simple and speedy lunch wrap incorporates protein, vegetables, dairy, grains, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded choice for busy students. With eight wraps per batch, you can freeze them for convenient, nutritious lunches on days when time is tight.
- Instant Noodle Cups by The Kitchn
The classic cup of noodles has long been a go-to for college students, but this homemade version offers a healthier and customizable alternative. Simply mix your choice of noodles, meats, vegetables, and sauces to create a nutritious twist on the traditional cup noodles.
Dinner
- Chicken Alfredo Bake by Make-Ahead Mom
This chicken alfredo bake delivers the comfort of a homemade meal without the hassle of preparing it all at once. You can portion it into individual servings for easy meals throughout the week or freeze it whole for a family-friendly option.
- Taco Casserole by Eating On A Dime
Casseroles are ideal for prepping in advance and reheating for a quick dinner. This taco and rice casserole is a tasty, budget-friendly choice that fits the bill perfectly.
- Quinoa Unstuffed Peppers by Taste of Home
These unstuffed peppers are an easy way to include protein, vegetables, grains, and dairy in one dish. This versatile recipe works well with ground chicken, turkey, or beef. It allows for a range of vegetable choices, making it a customizable and balanced meal tailored to your preferences.
Focus On Your Future!
WVJC hopes these eight recipes will help busy students save valuable time and money. Meal prepping is an excellent way to ensure that you are eating a balanced diet of nutritious foods and can help you maintain your physical and mental health to prepare for your academic journey.
WVJC is here to help you further your education. Our accelerated training programs are ideal for students who want to start new careers in allied healthcare, nursing, or professional services quickly. Request information today to get started!