Essential Tools for Effortless Meal Prepping: Top 10 Must-Haves
- EnVUz
- Sep 9
- 5 min read
Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time, eat healthier, and reduce food waste. With the right tools, it transforms into a smooth and enjoyable process. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, having the essential equipment can make all the difference. In this guide, we will discuss the top 10 tools that are indispensable for anyone looking to streamline their meal prep routine. Each one contains a link to the exact one we use at EnVUz!
1. Glass Meal Prep Containers
Glass meal prep containers are a staple for meal prep. These containers are durable, reusable, and safe for heating food without worrying about harmful chemicals leaching into your meals. Glass containers are perfect for portion control and having all your meals ready to go ahead of time. You can easily reheat meals in the microwave or oven, saving you time and effort during busy weeks.
2. Knives
A quality knife set is crucial for efficient meal prep. Sharp knives can make chopping vegetables and proteins a quick task. For instance, investing in a chef's knife (about 8 inches), a paring knife (around 3-4 inches), and a serrated knife can cover most kitchen jobs.
Selecting knives that feel comfortable in your hand and are made from high-carbon stainless steel can enhance your efficiency. Keeping them sharp through regular honing and occasional professional sharpening ensures they remain effective.
3. Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board provides a safe, clean surface for meal preparation. Opting for a wooden or plastic cutting board helps you maintain cleanliness easily. Popular options, such as those made from bamboo, are also eco-friendly and hygienic.
It's wise to have separate boards: one for vegetables and fruits and another for raw meats. This practice minimizes the risk of cross-contamination, keeping your meals safe and healthy.
4. Food Scale
A digital food scale is an indispensable tool for meal prepping, especially if you're keen on tracking portion sizes or macronutrients. Using a scale allows you to weigh your ingredients accurately, which is essential when following a recipe. Being able to measure your ingredients in ounces and grams is not only more accurate but also makes tracking easier.
5. Sheet Pans
Sheet pans are versatile kitchen tools that allow for roasting vegetables, baking proteins, or creating entire sheet pan meals. By cooking multiple items at once, you save time. Heavy-duty sheet pans that can withstand temperatures of up to 500°F are ideal.
Consider lining your pans with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This not only facilitates easy cleanup but also prevents sticking, allowing you to enjoy perfectly roasted veggies or baked items every time. When you are prepping multiple things at the same time, you will really appreciate the easy clean up!
6. Instant Pot or Slow Cooker
An Instant Pot or slow cooker can significantly enhance your meal prep routine. These appliances are perfect for hands-off cooking. For instance, you can throw in your ingredients in the morning, set the slow cooker, and return later to a delicious, ready meal.
An Instant Pot can pressure cook meals quickly. For example, instead of taking hours to cook a beef stew, it can be ready in about 45 minutes. We also use our instant pot for things like copy-cat Starbucks egg bites and the perfect hands off hard boiled eggs.
Both of these options really come in handy when you are making shredded meat, stew/soup, or any one pot type meal. Meat from an Instant Pot will be some of the most tender you have ever tried
7. Air Fryer
An air fryer is an excellent addition to any meal prep toolkit. It allows you to achieve crispy textures with less oil, making your meals not only healthier but also delicious.
With air fryers, you can cook various meals, from crispy vegetables to protein-rich snacks. The average cooking time is reduced to just 15-20 minutes, helping you to stay on schedule during your busy week.
Some of our favorite things to make in an air fryer is homemade fries, chicken nuggets, and steak bites.
8. Blender or Food Processor
A quality blender or food processor is key for making smoothies, sauces, and dips. These appliances streamline the process, allowing you to efficiently combine ingredients.
Protein shakes are great post workout or as a meal replacement. If you are using it as meal replacement, blending all your ingredients together is essential, because you will want to make sure you include a protein, carb, and fat option. Plus, having your shake thicker will help with satiety. We use a Vitamix, and can assure you it is worth the cost. After years of contemplation and trying many other brands, the quality is unmatched.
Food processors are a great way to make your favorite store bought sauces for less, and a great way to reduce the amount of added sugar and preservatives typically found in our dressings and sauces. Making a homemade sauce is easier than you think and can really elevate a dish!
9. Meal Prep Planner
A meal prep planner is essential for organizing your week. It helps you layout recipes, create shopping lists, and keep track of pantry staples. For example, using a simple planner, you can ensure you have all ingredients for recipes like a quinoa salad or chicken stir-fry.
With a meal prep planner, you improve your grocery shopping efficiency and help maintain your dietary goals without the stress of last-minute decisions. Download our free planner!
10. Rice Cooker
Possibly our favorite and most used appliance. A rice cooker allows you to cook rice for the whole week with just the press of a button. It cooks it perfectly every time and is hands down easier than cooking rice over the stove. You can also make oatmeal, quinoa, and all in one meals with the steamer basket! This gadget is a must have when it comes to meal prepping multiple meals in advance.
Final Thoughts
Meal prepping is a powerful strategy for enjoying healthier meals while saving time during your busy week. By investing in these top 10 tools, you can create a streamlined meal prep process that works for you. Each item— from glass containers to a versatile meal prep planner— is designed to enhance your cooking experience.
So gather up your essentials, plan your meals, and embrace the joy of delicious, homemade dishes throughout the week! Or you can just leave the cooking to us ;) Get more information on our meal prep delivery service by checking out our website envuzfitness.com. Not in the Houston area? You can still take advantage of our virtual nutrition coaching program with a Registered Dietitian. Visit our website for all the information!
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