The Benefits of Meal Planning for Single Moms
Meal planning is more than just organizing meals. Knowing what you’ll be cooking each day eliminates the dreaded “What’s for dinner?” question. It also cuts down trips to the grocery store, freeing up valuable time. Meal planning also reduces food waste and supports a balanced diet — a happy consequence for your finances and family health! When you shop with purpose, knowing exactly what you need for the week, you’ll be sure to save money on your grocery bill.
Tips for Setting Realistic Meal Planning Goals
Begin by planning meals for a few days a week, focusing on dinner, then expand to include breakfast and lunch. Remember, the aim is to simplify life, not complicate it, so keep expectations manageable and adjust as necessary.
Affordable, Versatile Ingredients
Staples like rice, beans, pasta, and seasonal vegetables are cost-effective and can be used in a lot of different dishes. Choose proteins you could stretch across multiple meals. Versatility is key, so look for ingredients that work across different recipes for maximum efficiency.
Making the Most of Leftovers
Plan meals that use leftovers in creative ways. For instance, turn roast chicken into salads the next day. Soups and stews are perfect for using leftover vegetables and grains. Store leftovers properly to ensure they last longer and keep them visible in the fridge so they aren’t forgotten. A little creativity goes a long way in making the most of every meal.
Incorporating Meal Prep into a Busy Schedule
Meal prep might seem daunting, but it’s a lifesaver for busy single moms. Set aside a few hours once a week to prep ingredients or cook meals in advance. Chop vegetables, marinate proteins, or cook grains to save time on busy weekdays. Use containers to portion meals, making grab-and-go options for you and the kids. This not only simplifies daily cooking but also ensures you have healthy meals ready, reducing the temptation of takeout.
Skip the lines where you can! Online groceries have been a huge help for me. I love this site to keep my pantry stocked. This is the site I used for produce back when my son was a baby, and I couldn’t make it to the store at all. I’ve been tempted to start that one back up again!
By the way.. You can get my free guide on how to improve your life with a budget (without completely hating it) here!
xo, Mary