Are you stuck in a rut when it comes to dinner time? Do you often find yourself asking, “What‘s for dinner?” only to be met with the response, “I don‘t know“? If that‘s the case, then it‘s time to switch things up and make meal planning a part of your weekly routine. Having a meal plan can make coming up with dinner ideas easier and less stressful. So, why not give it a try and make your new response to “What‘s for dinner?” be “It‘s on the meal plan!”
STEP 1: MEAL IDEAS
Are you feeling stuck for meal and snack ideas? We got you covered! Brain dump all the meals and snacks that you typically make. This way you’ll have a handy reference list whenever you’re in need of inspiration.
In addition to your own ideas, why not get the kids involved and let them flip through some recipe books to see what catches their eye? This is a great way to get creative and come up with new ideas. They’ll also be more likely to give the recipe a try since they picked it.
STEP 2: START MAKING YOUR PLAN
Start by writing down the days of the week or printing off our meal planning worksheet. After that, add in any holidays, celebrations, or appointments that might be taking place. Now it’s time to begin adding in your meals. Take out your list of meal ideas created in the first step and fill in each day of the week.
Here are some things to consider when planning:
- Have ingredients about to expire? Add a meal that will help use it up.
- Consider your leftovers and ways to use them up.
- It is ok to write add-in eating out or ordering takeout.
- For busy days pick a meal that’s quick and easy.
You’ll be done in no time and have a meal plan for the entire week!
STEP 3: GROCERY LIST
Once your calendar is filled with meals make a list of all of the ingredients needed for each meal. Then head to your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Cross off anything you already have. Anything not crossed is now your grocery list to bring to the store.
STEP 4: PREP FOR MEALS
If you are new to meal planning I would leave this step off until steps 1-3 feel easy to do. If you are already comfortable with meal planning it is time to add in a prep day!
Block out some time on the weekend to get organized and prepared for the week ahead.
