Meal prepping is more than just a trend; it’s a lifestyle choice that can make your week easier, healthier, and more fulfilling. Whether you’re prepping for a busy workweek, trying to stick to a diet, or simply want to ensure you have wholesome meals ready to go, having the right tools can make all the difference. Today, I’m excited to share with you five essential meal prep containers and tools you need to make your meal prepping a breeze. Let’s dive in!

1. High-Quality Glass Meal Prep Containers

When it comes to meal prep, having sturdy containers is a must. Glass meal prep containers are my top choice for several reasons.

Benefits of Glass Containers

  • Durability: Glass can withstand high temperatures and is less likely to warp or stain compared to plastic.
  • Healthier Option: Unlike plastic, glass doesn’t leach chemicals into your food.
  • Versatility: They can go from the fridge to the microwave or the oven, making reheating easy and convenient.
  • Bento Boxes: Perfect for portion control, bento boxes allow you to separate different food items, keeping them fresh and visually appealing.
  • Snap-Lid Containers: These are great for sauces or liquids. Look for airtight varieties to prevent spills.
  • Soufflé Cups: Ideal for dressings or dips, they are small and can fit into larger containers without taking up much space.

Best Practices

  • Choose a mix of sizes to accommodate different meals.
  • Look for containers with clear lids for easy identification of contents.

2. Mason Jars for Salads and Snacks

Mason jars are an underrated hero in meal prep! They’re not just for canning; they make excellent containers for salads, snacks, and even overnight oats.

Why Use Mason Jars

  • Portion Control: They come in various sizes, making it easy to control portions for snacks or meals.
  • Stackable: You can store them easily in the fridge without taking up too much room.
  • Presentation: They are aesthetically pleasing and perfect for taking meals on the go.

How to Assemble Layered Salads

  1. Dress First: Start by adding your dressing at the bottom of the jar.
  2. Hearty Vegetables: Next, layer in heartier vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers.
  3. Proteins: Follow this with proteins like chicken, beans, or tofu.
  4. Grains: Then layer in cooked grains such as quinoa or brown rice.
  5. Greens on Top: Finally, add lighter greens like spinach or arugula at the top to keep them fresh.

Tips

  • Leave about an inch of space at the top to prevent the salad from squishing.
  • Shake before eating to combine the dressing with the salad for a fresh taste!

3. Meal Prep Portion Control Containers

If portion control is your goal, then specialized portion control containers are essential. These containers come with compartments that help you manage your servings effortlessly.

Advantages of Portion Control Containers

  • Ease of Use: Clearly marked portions simplify packing your meals.
  • Diet Friendly: Helps keep meals balanced with appropriate protein, carbs, and veggies.
  • Color-Coded: Many come in different colors for specific food groups.

How to Use Them

  1. Fill Each Compartment: Use the designated sections for proteins, grains, and vegetables to create a balanced meal.
  2. Store in the Fridge: After prepping, pop the containers in the fridge for quick access.
  3. Reheat: Most portion control containers are microwave-safe, making reheating simple.
  • Look for brands like Snapware or Perfect Portions that offer reliable products.

4. Food Storage Bags and Wraps

Sometimes, traditional containers are not enough. Enter food storage bags and wraps! These tools can help keep your meal prep organized without taking up too much space.

Types of Storage Solutions

  • Reusable Silicone Bags: A great eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags. Ideal for marinating proteins or storing snacks.
  • Freezer Bags: Perfect for bulk meal prep. You can store soups, stews, and even whole meals in these sturdy bags.
  • Plastic Wrap: Great for covering bowls of prepped ingredients or leftovers, keeping them fresher for longer.

Tips for Using Bags and Wraps

  • Label Everything: Use labels to write down dates and contents, so you know what to use first.
  • Lay Flat: When freezing food in bags, lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen. This saves space and makes stacking easier later.

5. A High-Quality Food Scale

If you’re serious about meal prep, then a digital food scale should be in your arsenal. Accurate measurements can take your meal prep to the next level, especially when following specific diet plans.

Why a Food Scale is Important

  • Precision: Ensures you’re adhering to portion sizes, which is crucial for diets focused on macros.
  • Easy Tracking: Helps keep track of caloric intake, making it easier to log in apps.

Using the Food Scale

  1. Zero Out: Place your container on the scale and zero it out before adding food.
  2. Weigh Foods: Add ingredients one at a time until you reach the desired weight.
  3. Record: Keep a journal of what you’ve prepared, making meal planning more effective.

Recommendation

Look for scales that measure in both grams and ounces for versatility. The Ozeri Pronto Digital Scale is a popular choice due to its accuracy and ease of use.

Conclusion

Meal prepping doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, it can become a simple and enjoyable part of your routine. High-quality glass containers, versatile mason jars, portion control containers, food storage bags, and a reliable food scale are all essential allies in your meal prep journey.

Remember, the goal is to make your life easier during the week while still enjoying delicious, home-cooked meals. So, gather your tools, plan your meals, and get into the kitchen! You’ll be amazed at how much time you save and how satisfying it feels to have meals ready to go.

Start with one or two of these tools and gradually build your meal prep toolkit. Your future self will thank you! Happy cooking!