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25+ Healthy Meal Prep Ideas To Simplify Your Life

Updated: April 27, 2023

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Want to meal prep but not sure where to start? These easy and healthy meal prep ideas are perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Plus, you can meal prep each recipe on this list in less than 30 minutes: everything you need to help you start your week without stress.

Collage of healthy meal prep recipes in meal prep containers
If you love these meal prep containers as much as I do, you can get them here!

Preparing healthy and delicious meals 3 times a day can be so hard with everything else you have going on in your life!

If you are stressed out at work, you have hungry tiny humans at home, need to bring the dog out for a walk, do the laundry, clean, or all of the above, thinking about food might be the last thing on your mind.

I know the feeling. I’ve been there before. In my case, work and stress exhausted me. But I still wanted to eat well.

That’s when I discovered meal prep.

Honestly, if you are late from work or are just rushing out of the house at the last minute, having a meal ready to grab can be a lifesaver!

By using some simple tips and by planning ahead, you’ll be blown away by how easy cooking delicious food can be.

BENEFITS OF MEAL PREPPING

1. Save money

By making a meal plan, you’ll be able to waste a lot less food. When you go food shopping, you’ll just buy exactly what you need and won’t be tempted to overspend. Plus, by preparing your own healthy lunches, you’ll save a great deal of money!

2. Save time

By spending a few hours chopping fresh veggies and cooking at the weekend, you’ll have more time during the busy week to relax and worry less about what you need to put on your table.

3. Eat healthy meals every day

The hungrier you are, the more tempted you get to eat unhealthy food. You’ll know exactly what you are eating every day by cooking healthy food ahead of time.

Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be amazed at how a bit of organization can make your life so much easier, and you’ll just ask yourself why you didn’t do this sooner!

My favorite Meal Prep Containers

I love these containers made of glass. You can see what’s in them, they can be used in microwaves, and they won’t release any chemicals at the hot temperature as plastic containers can.

  • Meal prep bowls with dividers: I love these when I want to separate ingredients, like fruit and nuts, from my main meal.
  • Mason jars: For salads, overnight oats, and chia puddings.
  • Glass bottles: Perfect for soups or smoothies on the go.

And don’t forget to check out this incredible Beginner’s Meal Prep Guide: to Stress-Free Cooking!

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25+ Healthy Meal Prep Ideas

All these healthy meal prep recipes will be ready in 30 minutes or less and are perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Easy Breakfast Meal Prep Recipes

If you are tired of eating the same unhealthy bowl of cereals over and over again, it's time to spice up your options.

And if you want some extra inspiration, you can find more healthy breakfast meal prep ideas here.

1

Healthy Egg Muffins (3 Easy Ways)

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

If eggs are your thing in the morning, you can't go wrong with these healthy egg muffins!

You just need to mix eggs, a bit of milk, and plenty of veggies! And in just 30 minutes, you'll have the most delicious and fluffy breakfast egg muffins.

You can keep these in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

2

6 Healthy Overnight Oats Recipes

PREP TIME: 5 minutes
Vegan, Vegetarian

This 5-minute overnight oats recipe is filled with healthy foods and protein, and it's perfect for busy mornings. It's made with rolled oats, chia seeds, and some healthy toppings to help you kick-start your day. 

They last up to 5 days in the fridge. You can meal prep these a few days in advance and take them out of the refrigerator in the morning.

I usually prep them on Sunday evening, and they are ready for the week!

3

Vanilla Chia Pudding

PREP TIME: 5 minutes
Vegan, Gluten-Free

Chia seed puddings are ready in a couple of minutes and only require four ingredients, making them ideal for meal prep.

Just mix chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla, and a dash of maple syrup before going to bed, put them in the fridge, and you will have a tasty breakfast to enjoy in the morning!

Add whatever fresh fruit you have handy, and you are ready to go!

I love this with fresh berries in the summer or warm apple compote in the colder months! Delicious!

4

Fruit And Yogurt Parfaits

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Vegetarian

If you love fruit and granola, this is the perfect breakfast for you.

These parfait ideas are super delicious, and they are much cheaper to make than buying them at Starbucks.

Prepare these in the evening, and grab them on your way out of the door!

5

Vegetarian Breakfast Quesadillas

Photo Credit: www.aheadofthyme.com

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Vegetarian

These breakfast quesadillas are loaded with eggs and veggies. They are a bit like breakfast burritos but much easier to assemble and loaded with flavors.

You can make them ahead of time, freeze them for up to 3 months, and reheat them when you are ready to eat them.

Healthy Lunch & Dinner Meal Prep Recipes

There's nothing so satisfying on a busy day as knowing that you don't have to worry about getting lunch or dinner ready.

From cold lunches to hot dinner ideas to meal prep salads, here you'll find nutritious meal prep recipes filled with protein, healthy grains, and lots of wholesome vegetables.

6

Bento Box Lunch Ideas

PREP TIME: 10-25 minutes

Let's start with these incredibly delicious bento boxes.

There are six easy and filling variations, so you'll never get bored: Japanese, Chicken Teriyaki, Vegan, Vegetarian, Mexican, and Curry.

These meals are perfect for enjoying at room temperature, but if you use glass containers like these, you can also warm them up in the microwave.

Just pick your favorite!

7

Greek Couscous Salad

Photo Credit: www.chelseasmessyapron.com

PREP TIME: 25 minutes
Vegetarian

This colorful and healthy Greek couscous salad is so delicious your co-workers will envy you as soon as they see it!

Filled with chickpeas, couscous, lots of veggies, and a sprinkle of feta for extra saltiness, it’s the perfect healthy meal prep option for a work lunch.

It’s also very cheap to make!

8

Mediterranean Lunch Box

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Gluten-Free, Vegan

This lunch bowl brings Mediterranean flavors to your meal. It's easy to prepare, and it's absolutely delicious.

It's the perfect meal prep idea for lunch when you are in a hurry but still want to eat a healthy meal.

If you have an extra 10 minutes to spare, you can make your own homemade creamy hummus. It's a bit more work, but it's so worth it!

9

Sheet Pan Chicken Tinga Bowls

Photo Credit: pinchofyum.com

PREP TIME: 15 minutes
Gluten-Free

Can you believe you can make these incredible bowls in just 15 minutes?

Plus, there will be very little to wash, as you can add all the ingredients to a sheet pan, put them in the oven, and you are done!

So good for both lunch and dinner!

10

Healthy Lunch Box Ideas

PREP TIME: 5-25 minutes

Try these lunch boxes if you are after some simple lunch ideas.

They only take between 5 to 25 minutes to prepare. They are healthy and perfect if you are in a hurry.

They are my go-to lunch at the moment!

11

Protein Salad

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Vegetarian

This protein salad is the perfect energizing lunch! It's the perfect combination of high-protein ingredients to keep you full and satisfied!

Plus, it stores really well in a jar for up to five days.

12

10-Minute Chickpea Curry

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free

I have a bit of a problem with curries, especially with this chickpea curry. I cook it ALL THE TIME! And Dan is getting a bit tired of it, lol!

But I love it: this is my go-to weeknight meal for many reasons!

It’s rich and spicy but not overpowering and ready in only 10 minutes.

Plus, you can cook a big batch, put it in the fridge or freezer, and be done for the week.

And it’s really cheap to make: a portion comes out at less than $2.

13

Sesame Noodle Bowls

Photo Credit: pinchofyum.com

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

These sesame noodle bowls are made with delicious sesame noodles, an easy creamy sesame sauce, perfectly browned chicken, edamame, and fresh cucumber.

The ideal meal if you fancy Asian flavors for dinner.

14

Chickpea Buddha Bowl

This easy chickpea Buddha bowl is full of plant-based goodness, and it's perfect for meal prep!

It's made with kale, protein-rich chickpeas, crunchy radish, creamy avocado, and sweet carrots, but you can use whatever veggies you have.

Drizzle with this incredibly rich turmeric tahini dressing for a little heat, zing, and spiciness. Oh, so YUMMY!

15

Spicy Chicken Meal Prep with Rice and Beans

Photo Credit: pinchofyum.com

PREP TIME: 20 minutes

This spicy chicken with rice and beans is filling and packed with proteins. And you know what? If you end up cooking it, you'll want to eat it over and over again.

It's the perfect recipe for you if you are a fan of using an instant pot. But don't worry, you can meal prep this even without it.

It will just take a bit longer, and you can use a crockpot or a simple pan instead.

16

Butternut Squash Curry with Chickpeas

This comforting butternut squash curry is another favorite of mine!

It's an easy Indian-inspired dish that comes together in just 30 minutes with sweet, comforting butternut squash and protein-rich chickpeas.

Pair it with naan or brown rice (or both!) for a filling and spicy lunch or dinner.

17

Taco Bowl

Photo Credit: www.chelseasmessyapron.com

PREP TIME: 25 minutes

Doesn't this bowl look incredibly delicious? This easy-to-make taco bowl is filling, packed with good ingredients, and perfect to prep in advance.

You can customize it with your choice of grains, proteins, and veggies.

This one contains cilantro-lime rice, spicy ground beef (but you can sub for chicken or tofu), black beans for extra protein, and sweetcorn.

Add cheese, sauce, and salsa on the side for the perfect taco bowl!

18

Spicy Chickpea Quinoa Bowls

Photo Credit: www.eatyourselfskinny.com

PREP TIME: 20 minutes
Gluten-Free, Vegan

These meal prep bowls are filled with plant-based ingredients and take no time to put together! The main ingredients are protein-rich quinoa, spicy chickpeas, and extra greens.

They are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and perfect for your weekly meal prep!

19

Vegetarian Paella

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Gluten-Free, Vegan

I made this last night and ended up eating two plates full! It's that good! And all I can think about while writing this is that I have some more waiting for me in the fridge.

Plus, can you believe you can make it in just 30 minutes?

And another thing I love about paella is that it's so flavorful as soon as it's ready, but it's just as tasty at room temperature or reheated, making it perfect for meal prep!

20

Shrimp Meal-Prep with Zucchini Noodles

Photo Credit: www.eatwell101.com

PREP TIME: 15 minutes
Gluten-Free

Spiralized veggies are a healthy yet satisfying alternative to regular pasta and noodles.

And the combination of spicy, zingy shrimp with refreshing and light zucchini noodles makes this the perfect light, healthy, and nutritious low-carb recipe.

21

Crispy Black Bean Tacos

Photo Credit: pinchofyum.com

PREP TIME: 25 minutes
Vegetarian

Tacos that you can meal prep? Count me in!

These crispy black bean tacos are filled with black beans and salsa and a delicious cilantro and lime sauce.

To meal prep them, you have two options:

  • Make the filling and just keep it in the fridge. Once ready to eat the tacos, add the filling into the tortillas and fry them up.
  • Add the filling to the tortillas straight away and freeze them into a bag. When ready to eat, heat them in a frying pan, and you are good to go!
22

Panzanella in a Jar

PREP TIME: 15 minutes
Vegan

I love salads in jars: they look so pretty, and it’s an easy way to pack your lunch.

You can make this hearty meal prep salad ahead of time, and you’ll be ready for lunch on the go!

This filling version of Panzanella is light and quick to prep: the main ingredients are tomatoes, stale bread, olives, chickpeas, onions, and basil.

Easy to assemble and even easier to make!

23

Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad

Photo Credit: saltandlavender.com

PREP TIME: 30 minutes

I generally don't think pasta works for meal prep, with a few exceptions:

  • Pasta sauce that you can make in advance, like pesto or tomato-based sauces.
  • Pasta bakes.
  • Pasta salads!

And this healthy tuna pasta salad is the perfect example of an easy dish that you can prep ahead.

It's filling and full of flavor. And you'll just need a handful of simple ingredients to make it.

24

Honey Sriracha Glazed Meatballs

Photo Credit: www.eatyourselfskinny.com

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Gluten-Free

This recipe is super easy. You can serve these delicious turkey meatballs with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.

Carrots add a good crunch, and then everything is topped with green onions and sesame seeds.

This is a delicious and filling meal, easy to prep in advance and to warm up in the office or at home!

25

Fajita Chicken Burrito Bowl

Photo Credit: cafedelites.com

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Gluten-Free

This healthy and filling burrito bowl comes together in minutes! All you have to do is season the chicken and toss it in the pan.

Then load the bowl with plenty of good-for-you veggies and an insanely flavorful dressing, and you'll have a hearty meal that is so good it'll make regular appearances in your weekly schedule.

Remember to add the avocado and dressing at the last minute!

26

Easy Vegan Red Lentil Dal

Photo Credit: www.simplyquinoa.com

PREP TIME: 15 minutes
Gluten-Free

This easy lentil dal is a flavorful, plant-powered meal that you can make in one pot and just 15 minutes!

Plus, it reheats incredibly well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Serve with quinoa, rice, or naan!

27

One-Pan Mexican Quinoa

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Gluten-Free, Vegan

If you are craving spicy Mexican flavor, try this nutrient-rich one-pan meal!

Mixing sweetcorn, beans, fresh avocado, tomato sauce, and plenty of seasoning makes each mouthful burst with flavor.

And if you are not on a vegan diet, you can add a bit of shredded cheese on top!

28

The Ultimate Veggie Sandwich

Photo Credit: iamafoodblog.com

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Vegetarian

This veggie sandwich is truly epic!

Not only it’s beautiful, but it’s also delicious!

The main ingredients are romaine lettuce, carrots, cucumber, red cabbage, avocado, sprouts, red onion, and tomatoes.

And if sandwiches are your thing, check out these delicious plant-based sandwich recipes!

The Best Soups For Meal Prep

Soups are a great way to add more veggies to your diet. They are nourishing and extra comforting, especially during the cold months.

Here you'll find some of my favorite soups that you can store in the fridge for a few days or freeze extremely well without compromising on flavor.

Warm them up and serve them with a big slice of crusty whole-grain bread for the perfect meal!

29

Vegan Carrot Ginger Soup

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Gluten-Free, Vegan

I make this classic carrot ginger soup on repeat when it's cold outside. It's filling, comforting, and sweet, with a touch of spiciness from the ginger.

It's rich in nutrients from carrots, onions, and ginger but also packed with plant-based protein from red lentils.

You can cook it in just 30 minutes, and it stores incredibly well in the refrigerator or the freezer. I love keeping my creamy soups in milk bottles, but any airtight container works well!

Serve it with a slice of toasted bread, a sandwich, or brown rice to make it a complete meal.

30

Quick Tuscan Farro Soup with Beans and Kale

PREP TIME: 20 minutes
Gluten-Free, Vegan

This Tuscan farro soup is hearty, cozy, and comforting.

It's one of my favorite soups to meal prep because it stores incredibly well in both the fridge and freezer.

The cooked farro keeps its bite and doesn't become soggy, even after a few days.

Make sure to add some extra broth when you reheat it to keep the right consistency.

31

Poached Chicken and Winter Vegetable Soup

Photo Credit: downshiftology.com

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
Gluten-Free

This soup is filled with nourishing ingredients that will warm you up while boosting your immune system.

It's hearty and flavorful and stores exceptionally well in the fridge for a few days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

You can also add some noodles when you reheat it to make it more filling.

32

Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

PREP TIME: 25 minutes (with pre-cubed butternut squash)
Gluten-Free, Vegan

The sweetness and creaminess of the butternut squash mixed with the pungent aroma of fresh sage make this soup incredibly flavorful.

Although it takes around 35 minutes to make, you can save about 10 minutes by buying pre-cubed butternut squash.

And no, buying precut veggies doesn't count as cheating!

33

Minestrone Soup

Photo Credit: www.loveandlemons.com

PREP TIME: 30 minutes

This take on the classic Italian soup is full of vegetables and super comforting.

The best trick to meal prep minestrone (from an Italian that's been eating minestrone since before she could walk) is to separate the cooked pasta.

Or better still, skip the pasta and add it only when you reheat your soup. It'll cook in as little as 10 minutes.

This will avoid having mushy and soggy pasta in your soup. You can also substitute the pasta for farro or barley, as they are much more forgiving when reheated.

Meal Prep Tips to Get Started

1. Make a plan

Decide what you are going to cook ahead of time. Pick all the recipes you want to cook for the entire week and put together a grocery shopping list.

I would suggest you start with 2-3 easy meals per week. It’s nice to have variety, but it takes a lot more time to cook different meals, especially if you are new to planning your meals!

2. Multi-task

Cook multiple things at once! You can bake chicken breasts while roasting your veggies at the same time. This will really help you to get things done much faster.

3. Don’t meal prep too many meals

Don’t meal prep more than 5 days’ worth of food. Most of the food you will prep won’t last more than 3 days in the fridge, so make sure you freeze the rest.

4. Keep your goal in mind

Whether you are trying to save money, simply eat healthy food or lose weight, keep in mind why you are meal prepping! You’ll be less keen to opt for a takeout meal!

MEAL PREP F.A.Q.

I never planned my meals before. Do you have any tips for meal prepping for beginners?

Planning your meals and cooking in advance can be daunting if you’ve never done it before. But you don’t have to go all in. 

Start by doubling up the portions of your dinner or lunch, so you’ll have something ready for the next day. Honestly, there’s nothing better than checking your fridge and finding a wholesome, delicious meal ready to eat.

Once you get more familiar with the process, you can start planning your meals for a few days, and in no time, you’ll be a meal prep wizard!

How long do meal prep meals last in the fridge?

Most meal prep meals can last three to five days in the fridge. If you want to meal prep for the week and keep everything fresh, you should freeze some of your meals (soups are great for that). Or cook two days a week.

Can I freeze meal prep meals?

It depends on the type of meal: soups, curries, burritos, quesadillas, and stews all freeze pretty well. Salads and pasta do not. But pasta bake can be great for freezing. Always check the recipe to make sure it is suitable for freezing.

What foods are best for meal prep?

Some of the best foods that last long in the fridge and don’t become soggy or dry are: hard-boiled eggs, beans, chickpeas, white rice or brown rice, farro, couscous, quinoa, oats, green beans, crispy veggies like bell peppers, carrots, kale, roasted veggies, sweet potatoes.

Do I have to eat the same thing for a whole week?

Of course not. Wouldn’t that be dull? You can cook 3-4 different meals a week so that you can enjoy some variety. This is not only less boring, but by adding more ingredients, you’ll have a more nutritious and wholesome diet. 

What if I don’t like reheating food?

I hear you. I don’t like reheating food as well, except for soups and curries. I think those are just as good (if not better) reheated.

Meal prep doesn’t necessarily mean reheating your food. You can meal plan for the week, do your grocery shopping, and meal prep all the ingredients: chop your veggies, prepare some healthy snacks, and blend 2-3 sauces and salad dressing (I love this Tumeric Tahini dressing, and I always keep this kale pesto in the freezer for last-minute meals).

This way, most of the work will be done, and you’ll only need 10-15 minutes in the kitchen. You’ll enjoy all the benefits of meal prepping, and you won’t have to reheat your food. 

More Healthy Meal Prep Ideas

  • 25 Healthy Breakfast Meal Prep Ideas
  • 25 Healthy Vegetarian Meal Prep Ideas
  • 100+ Vegan Meal Prep Ideas
  • 25 Healthy Meal Prep Snacks
  • 50+ Quick And Easy Dinner Recipes (30 Minutes or Less)
  • 6 Healthy Bento Box Ideas
  • 25 Healthy Snack Ideas
  • 25 Healthy Vegan Snacks
  • 25 Vegan Sandwiches Perfect For Lunch
  • Vegan Meal Prep Bowls

Don’t forget to check out this incredible Beginner’s Meal Prep Guide: to Stress-Free Cooking!

Is meal prepping for you?

Meal prepping can save your life, especially if you have a hectic schedule but still want to eat healthy food.

Just try it for a month, and you will see a significant change in your health and your wallet!

What are your favorite healthy meals to prep? Share them in the comments below!

collage of healthy meal prep recipes
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Meal Prep Ideas: Healthy Bento Box

Looking for new meal prep ideas? These 6 healthy bento box lunch ideas are packed with a healthy balance of protein, fresh veggies, and whole grains. Perfect to make in advance!
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Total Time30 mins
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Asian, Indian, Japanese, Mexican, Vegan, Vegetarian
Servings: 6 serving
Author: Sara @ Gathering Dreams

Ingredients

Vegetarian Bento Box

  • 1 serving Mediterranean quinoa
  • 1 boiled egg
  • ½ orange - peeled
  • ½ cup grapes

Curry Bento Box

  • 1 serving 10-Minute Chickpea Curry
  • ¾ cup cooked brown rice - around ¼ cup uncooked rice per bento box – can substitute with naan bread
  • ¼ cup roasted spicy cashews - or sub for roasted chickpeas
  • 5 cherry tomatoes - diced
  • ½ cucumber - diced
  • 1 tablespoon red onion - chopped
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice - or lemon juice, or vinegar
  • salt
  • Cilantro leaves

Mexican Bento Box

  • ½ cup canned black beans - drained and rinsed
  • ¼ cup fresh sweet corn - if not in season, substitute with frozen sweet corn
  • ½ medium red bell pepper - diced
  • 5 cherry tomatoes - diced
  • 1 tablespoon red onion - chopped
  • 1 cup romaine lettuce - finely sliced
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro - chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin
  • salt
  • ½ avocado
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon red onion - chopped
  • 1 slice jalapeno - chopped
  • ½ tablespoon cilantro - chopped
  • salt
  • ½ fresh sweet corn - boiled or roasted
  • tortilla chips

Japanese Inspired Bento Box

  • 1 egg
  • ½ teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon mirin - substitute with rice vinegar + ½ teaspoon raw brown sugar
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup red cabbage - finely shredded
  • ½ white cabbage - finely shredded
  • 1 small carrot - cut into matchsticks
  • 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds
  • 4-5 cilantro leaves
  • ½ teaspoon miso paste
  • ½ tablespoon soy sauce
  • ½ tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • ½ tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • ¾ cup cooked brown rice - around ¼ cup uncooked rice per bento box
  • ½ cup spicy salt & chili edamame
  • 2 slices smoked wild salmon - or fresh sushi-grade salmon

Chicken Teriyaki Bento Bowl

  • 1 chicken tight - or chicken breast
  • 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon raw brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1/2 cup spicy edamame
  • ¾ cup cooked brown rice - around ¼ cup uncooked rice per bento box
  • 2 cup mixed salad leaves
  • 2-3 finely sliced radish
  • 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon raw brown sugar

Vegan Bento Box

  • 1 avocado sandwich - or any of these sandwiches
  • ½ cup mixed berries
  • 1 cup air popped popcorn - by the time you do this, there will be a live recipe for this

Instructions

Vegetarian Bento Box (click here for notes and tips)

  • Prepare the Mediterranean quinoa salad according to these instructions.
  • Assemble all ingredients into your bento box. Let everything cool down at room temperature before sealing.

Curry Bento Box (click here for notes and tips)

  • Prepare the chickpea curry according to these instructions.
  • Prepare the roasted spicy cashews according to these instructions. Or you can add roasted chickpeas, as an alternative.
  • Prepare the salad: mix all the ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
  • Assemble all ingredients into your bento box. Let everything cool down at room temperature before sealing.

Mexican Bento Box (click here for notes and tips)

  • Prepare the salad dressing: mix all the dressing ingredients in a small glass jar, and set aside.
  • Prepare the Mexican salad: In a small bowl, mix all the salad ingredients. If eating the bento box after a few hours, add the dressing. If you plan to eat the bento box after a few days, keep the dressing separate and add it just before eating.
  • Prepare the guacamole: In a small bowl, mash half avocado, add the lime juice, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and chopped jalapeno, and season with salt.
  • Assemble all ingredients into your bento box.

Japanese Inspired Bento Box (click here for notes and tips)

  • In a small bowl, beat the egg well using a fork. Add the soy sauce, mirin, and a tiny pinch of salt and mix until all the ingredients are combined. If you don’t have mirin, you can add rice vinegar and a ½ teaspoon of brown sugar to give it a bit of sweetness.
  • Heat a small skillet at medium-high temperature, and with the help of a pastry brush or a kitchen towel, spread a light layer of oil. Pour a thin layer of egg mixture into the skillet. Once the egg has cooked slightly, roll it into a cylinder and let it cook for another few seconds. Remove the omelet from the pan, let it cool slightly, and press it a bit before slicing it into thin rolls.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the ginger, miso, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and water and set it aside. In another bowl, toss the cabbage, carrots, cilantro leaves, and sesame seeds together with the dressing.
  • Assemble all ingredients into your bento box.

Chicken Teriyaki Bento Box (click here for notes and tips)

  • Heat the oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Add the chicken and let it brown for 3 minutes on each side, then remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Combine the sauce ingredients and pour into the pan. Let the sauce come to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes until it starts to thicken. Then add the chicken and its resting juices back into the pan. Cook for 2-4 minutes, turning it quite often until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is nice and sticky. Remove from the heat, let it rest for a few minutes, and cut into slices.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and water and set it aside. In another bowl, toss the mixed salad leaves, radish, and sesame seeds together with the dressing.
  • Assemble all ingredients into your bento box.

Vegan Bento Box (click here for notes and tips)

  • Prepare the avocado sandwich following these instructions.
  • Prepare the popcorn following these instructions.
  • Assemble the bento box.

Notes

How to Store: Food safety and properly storing a bento box go hand in hand. The food should be cooled to room temperature before being closed inside the box to prevent bacterial growth and to avoid the food going soggy.
*For nutritional information, check each recipe individually.

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  • Healthy bento box lunches on the table.

    6 Healthy Bento Box Lunch Ideas

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    25 Healthy Vegetarian Meal Prep Ideas

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    5 Healthy Lunch Box Ideas for Adults (Perfect for Work!)

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  1. p says

    August 16, 2022

    very useful recipes!!

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      August 18, 2022

      I’m glad you like it. Thank you!

      Reply
  2. Hassan says

    April 7, 2022

    5 stars
    This is really good… This was my favourite meal for all time!

    Reply
  3. Amanda says

    January 28, 2022

    5 stars
    I’m crazy about western food, delicious food makes me hungry。。。。。。

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      February 20, 2022

      Thanks Amanda 🙂

      Reply
  4. Elizabeth says

    October 25, 2021

    5 stars
    I love Mason jars as well, but thanks for the tips on how to use them! I only used them for my iced coffee or overnight oats so far, but good to know that it has am multipurpose. Since I work 40 hours a week, I barely have any time and energy left to cook every single day. So I’ve been meal-prepping since 2 months now, and I love it so far. It was a little challenging at the beginning, since I also tried to go Vegan for 3 weeks. So, for the Vegan recipes I searched on some food blogs and nutrition apps, and found some easy meals at yazio that I could meal-prep (https://www.yazio.com/en/foods/dishes-meals). Have you checked out any Apps for some recipe ideas yet? I heard that lifesum is also pretty good. Your recipes also sound delicious, so I will definitely give it a try. I mean, both aren’t recipe apps, but it’s quite cool to get an overview about macros and calories.

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      November 19, 2021

      Thanks for your kind words, Elizabeth 🙂 I did try to find an app that I looked but, to be honest, I mostly use Pinterest, and look for recipes there. Plus I have my own favorite recipes here that I make on rotation. I will check out the app you suggested but I can’t be bothered to track calories and macros, lol! I find that as long as I eat wholesome nutritious meals, I keep my weight in check!

      Reply
  5. Rangi says

    June 8, 2021

    5 stars
    Good Luck

    All the meals look dilecious, and I going to try everything

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      July 19, 2021

      Thanks so much, Rangi 🙂

      Reply
  6. tamilblasters says

    May 31, 2021

    Thanks for the post. Also I like the idea of a “Cauliflower Rice Burrito Bowl”. Saving this for tips.

    Yeah to be healthy! 🙂

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      June 4, 2021

      Couldn’t agree more! Yeah to be healthy 🙌

      Reply
  7. Saurabh says

    May 3, 2021

    These ideas are truly amazing and are in my next checklist, thanks

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      May 4, 2021

      Glad you liked these meal prep ideas, Saurabh 🙂

      Reply
  8. Bailey says

    April 2, 2021

    5 stars
    I love the Fruit and Yogurt Parfrait, it tastes better than granola bars and it is so healthy! I also love the Greek Couscous Salad!

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      April 5, 2021

      Thanks so much, Bailey 🙂

      Reply
  9. Morgan says

    February 19, 2021

    I got so many good ideas from this article. Thanks for putting this together!

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      February 26, 2021

      Thanks so much, [email protected] Let me know if you try any of these meal prep ideas 🙂

      Reply
  10. Michelle says

    December 9, 2020

    These are amazing ideas!

    Can’t wait to try the Sheet Pan Garlic Ginger Chicken & Broccoli & 10-Minute Chickpea Curry over the weekend.

    Thanks Sara

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      December 10, 2020

      Thanks, Michell! Meal Prep can be life-changing 🙂
      Hope you’ll love these recipes. The chickpea curry is one of my fav!

      Reply
  11. James says

    August 15, 2020

    5 stars
    Preparing quick and delicious meals

    Reply
  12. Para says

    August 3, 2020

    These ideas are truly very amazing and are surely must-try ones

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      August 4, 2020

      Thanks Para 🙂
      Glad you liked these meal prep ideas 😉

      Reply
  13. Gabriel says

    June 23, 2020

    5 stars
    This is just incredible! Thank you SO much for sharing these delicious recipes and shopping lists. It has saved not only tons of money for my family but my sanity! With 3 children ages 4 and under this has been a lifesaver!

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      June 23, 2020

      Thanks Gabriel! It makes me so happy that my shopping list was helpful for you and your family 🙂

      Reply
  14. Dianne says

    May 25, 2020

    5 stars
    Thanks for the post. I enjoyed reading the original one and the updated version is good too. I like the idea of a “Cauliflower Rice Burrito Bowl”. Saving this for tips. 🙂

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      June 1, 2020

      Thanks Dianne, glad you liked these recipes! They are some of my favorites 🙂

      Reply
  15. Roger says

    May 22, 2020

    5 stars
    Yes please!!!! you just made me hungry and I have to test myself with this …going healthy is my 2020 goal

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      May 22, 2020

      Yeah to be healthy! 🙂

      Reply
  16. morocco sahara exploration says

    March 25, 2020

    5 stars
    thank you so much I love your blog

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      March 25, 2020

      Thank you 🙂

      Reply
  17. Travel adviser says

    March 16, 2020

    I’m just wondering how does the honey Sriracha Glazed Meatballs taste, it really looks delicious. I hope that I will have a chance to taste them.

    Thank you so much, Sara, for sharing this wonderfull article

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      March 17, 2020

      Thanks, I hope you will enjoy making these meals 🙂

      Reply
  18. Morocco tours says

    March 15, 2020

    All the meals look dilecious, and I going to try everything

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      March 17, 2020

      Thank you 🙂

      Reply
  19. Supriya Kutty says

    March 14, 2020

    These ideas are truly very amazing and are surely must-try ones, will surely gonna make them and let you know on how it cooked and tasted as well as sharing this with my friends as well who are more into fitness thing and have less time to devote to fitness so having these recipes will surely help them

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      March 17, 2020

      Thanks Supriya 🙂 I hope you will enjoy these recipes!

      Reply
  20. Pablo says

    March 13, 2020

    5 stars
    thank you for the post I really like the couscous

    Reply
    • Sara @ Gathering Dreams says

      March 13, 2020

      Glad you like it, Pablo 🙂

      Reply
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