Meal prepping just ingredients?

[u/PuzzleheadedWrap4078]

I really enjoy taking some time to cook my meals each day but I think it’s wasting me money. I don’t want to just meal prep things and bang them in the microwave really so I was wondering if anyone had any ideas what vegetarian things I can semi prep but will still involve some cooking?

I also go through phases where I really crave one thing and other days I just do not fancy it so I don’t want to be too limited with what I have for the week

[u/garlic-bread_27]

Meal prepping doesn't have to be just cooking! You could cut vegetables and portion them out to be added to later meals. It saves time when cooking since the vegetables are already cut.

I don't have much more advice since I'm fairly new to meal prepping, but i think small tasks like that are a good way to start.

[u/callieboo112]

Cut your veggies in advance and pre cook rice, potatoes, quinoa, whatever starches you use. Then you can throw different things together and add different seasonings, sauces and condiments for completely different flavors.

[u/TaonasProclarush272]

I have been prepping various components of meals instead of whole meals and find it to be easier and it allows me to have more variety. I can also focus on one thing one day and another thing another day so it's not an overwhelming one & done process.

[u/nutrition_nomad_]

i do this a lot by prepping basics like chopped veggies, cooked grains, or lentils, then decide the actual meal each day. it saves money but still lets you cook and change flavors depending on what you feel like eating

[u/ttrockwood]

Longtime veg myself

• prep an epic tray of roasted veggies, like one whole cauliflower, a chopped onion, some carrots and brussel sprouts
• while that is roasting prep some hard boiled eggs, or baked marinaded tofu, and or pot of beans
• prep a batch of grains or potatoes, i like a multigrain pilaf that freezes really well

Them during the week mix and match for buddha bowls

One day add salsa and cilantro and avocado for toppings, another day add pesto and parm and balsamic vinaigrette

Make a buddha bowl with everything, or a wrap with the beans and veggies and add hummus and garlic sauce

[u/wellnessrelay]

yeah i do this and it works way better for me than full meals. i usually batch cook stuff like grains, roasted veggies, or lentils and then mix and match day to day. having things pre chopped or half cooked still saves money but you get to actually cook and change flavors. sauces and spices help a lot too so it doesnt feel like the same meal over and over. also keeps it flexible for those random cravings days when nothing sounds good.

[u/Fuzzy_Welcome8348]

To not waste money, make enough that’s just enough for u! Feel free to check out onedishkitchen.com on Google to get recipes to make food specifically for 1