10 Tasty and Somewhat Healthy Meal Prep Ideas

I really like cooking, but I don't want to cook every single night of the week. That's why I want to get in the habit of meal prepping my lunches for the week on Sundays.

I wouldn't say that all of these dishes are easy to prepare, but they're not too difficult either.

1. Daal

I put daal first deliberately-- it's the best! Not only is it extremely inexpensive and delicious, but it embodies two other key characteristics of meal-prepped foods: it stores well, and it gets better the longer you keep it (the latter is really rare). Plus, if you don't add too much salt and oil, it's healthy too.

2. Channa Masala

Daal's younger sister. Nearly as good, and it keeps well too. Both can be vegan too, if needed.

3. Chicken piccata

Chicken piccata is always a good lunch. Always.

4. Spanakopita

This is a great vegetarian option. It takes a while to prepare, but it's so good, and I never feel guilty for eating a ton of it.

5. Baked salmon or white fish

I would probably marinate either with garlic and ginger paste, soy sauce, chili oil, and some rice vinegar.

6. Shrimp with Farro and Veggies

This should be able to last for a full week too (or at least through Wednesday).

7. Tortellini with tomato sauce

This one is for the weekends when I have a bit less time, since it doesn't require too much preparation. Still, it reheats so well and is always a great lunch.

8. Quiche

Quiche is great because there are so many options: quiche lorraine, spinach, broccoli, zucchini...

9. Orzo Pasta Salad

A lighter option that's especially good for the summer.

10. Mac and Cheese

And with that, I've officially made myself hungry. Time for dinner!