Meal planning is a game changer, people. It’s great to plan meals before grocery shopping for many reasons:
You can try any recipe with any ingredients you want
You always have the correct ingredients on hand for said recipes
You don’t have to debate what to eat when it’s 6pm on a Wednesday and you’re starving
Food waste (aka wasted money) is reduced because you only buy what you need
It’s pretty much a win-win-win-win. But I also realize that not everyone likes to meal plan or has the time to do it. One thing I’m passionate about is helping people realize that cooking is very doable with a little planning and some confidence. In my experience, people too often just don’t know where to start when it comes to finding simple, healthy recipes that taste good.
Because of this, I decided to compile a meal plan + grocery list of some of my favorite simple, veggie-packed, inexpensive recipes to share with you all. Enjoy, and feel free to let me know how they work for you!
*Recipe Notes*
Unless otherwise noted, all recipes are for 4 people (or 2 + lunch leftovers!).
Jalapeño Bacon Quinoa Mac N' Cheese
Sweet Potato and Chorizo Hash*
*The grocery list accounts for doubling this recipe so it can feed four.
15 Minute Chicken Teriyaki
White Bean, Kale and Kielbasa Soup
Slow Cooker Thai Chicken Soup
(This could be made on the stove. Just cook over medium-low for 35-45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and veggies are soft)
BONUS! Breakfast for the week!
Maple Cinnamon Chia Pudding
*Grocery List Notes*
I’ve included a “staples” section of items you probably already have, but if you don’t you will need these for the recipes.
Produce:
2 large sweet potatoes
4 white onions
1 bunch cilantro
1 green onion
1 head broccoli
1 garlic bulb
1 bunch kale
1 large leek
1 red bell pepper
fresh ginger
4 jalapeños
Meat:
2 chorizo links
2.5 lb chicken breasts
8 oz Italian sausage
1 lb bacon
Dairy:
milk
2 oz fresh Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
3 cups white cheddar cheese (shredded)
Canned:
1 can cannellini beans
8 cups chicken broth
red curry paste
24 oz coconut milk
Condiments:
fish sauce
pure maple syrup
Dry Goods:
1.5 cups quinoa
chia seeds
Frozen:
1 bag frozen peas
Staples:
4 eggs
olive oil
chili powder
cumin
soy sauce
brown sugar
corn starch
paprika
peanut butter
lime juice
white rice
vanilla extract
cinnamon