An apple a day keeps the doctor away, isn’t it? Apples are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic choice for any meal or snack. Meal-prepping apples can save you time and ensure that you always have a nutritious option on hand.
ℹ️ As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase after clicking on a link I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if items are purchased.
Below, I will walk you through the steps of how to meal prep apples, from selecting the right varieties to preparing and storing them for various uses. So, let’s get begin!
1. Choosing the Right Apples
When it comes to meal-prepping apples, choosing the right variety is essential. Different apple varieties have different flavors, textures, and uses. Some apples are best for eating raw, while others are better suited for baking or cooking purposes.
Here are some popular apple varieties and their characteristics:
Gala
Gala apples are crisp, sweet, and have a mild flavor. They are great for eating raw or adding to salads.
Honeycrisp
Honeycrisp apples are known for their exceptional crispness and juiciness. They have a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness and are excellent for both snacking and baking.
Granny Smith
Granny Smith apples are tart and firm, which makes them ideal for baking. They hold their shape well when cooked and add a tangy flavor to pies and crisps.
2. Washing and Preparing Apples
Before you start meal prepping your apples, it’s important to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to wash and prepare your apples:
- Fill a clean sink or large bowl with cool water.
- Add a few tablespoons of white vinegar to the water. The vinegar helps to remove any waxy residue and kill bacteria.
- Place the apples in the water-vinegar solution and let them soak for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a vegetable brush to gently scrub the apples, especially if they have a wax coating.
- Rinse the apples under cool running water to remove any remaining vinegar or debris.
- Pat the apples dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Once your apples are clean and dry, you can move on to the next step of meal-prepping them based on your intended use. Let’s explore some popular ways to meal-prep apples:
3. Slice and Store
Slicing apples in advance is an excellent option for quick and easy snacking or adding them to salads and sandwiches. Here’s how you can slice and store your prepped apples:
- Core the apples using an apple corer (#ad) or a sharp knife. Remove the stem and seeds.
- Cut the apples into slices of your preferred thickness. You can make thin slices for snacking or thicker slices for dipping in nut butter or yogurt.
- To prevent browning, you can dip the apple slices in lemon juice or a mixture of water and lemon juice. The acid in lemon juice helps to slow down the oxidation process.
- Place the apple slices in an airtight container or storage bag (#ad).
- Store the sliced apples in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Having pre-sliced apples readily available makes it simple to grab a healthy snack whenever you’re in the mood for something crunchy and satisfying.
4. Make Applesauce
If you have an abundance of apples, making homemade applesauce is a fantastic way to utilize them.
Here’s a basic recipe for making applesauce:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples. You can use a combination of different apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
- In a large pot, combine the apple slices with a small amount of water and a dash of cinnamon (optional).
- Cook the apples over medium heat, stirring occasionally until they are soft and tender.
- Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash or blend the cooked apples until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer chunky applesauce, leave some larger pieces.
- Taste the applesauce and adjust the sweetness by adding a sweetener like honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Let the applesauce cool before transferring it into jars or containers for storage.
- Store the homemade applesauce in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for longer-term storage.
5. Get Creative with Apples!
Now that you know how to meal-prep apples, the possibilities are endless! From snacking on crispy apple slices to enjoying homemade applesauce or incorporating them into your favorite recipes, apples can add a delicious and nutritious touch to your meals.
So go ahead, get creative, and explore the versatility of this amazing fruit!
FAQs
Can I meal prep apples ahead of time?
Absolutely! Meal prepping apples allows you to have them ready whenever you need them, saving you time and ensuring you have a healthy option on hand.
How long can I store sliced apples in the refrigerator?
You can store sliced apples in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when properly stored in an airtight container or storage bag.
Can I freeze applesauce?
Yes, you can freeze applesauce for longer-term storage. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers (#ad) and leave some headspace for expansion.
What can I do with leftover apple peels?
You can use leftover apple peels to make apple peel tea, add them to compost, or use them as natural potpourri.
Can I use different apple varieties for making applesauce?
Absolutely! Using a combination of different apple varieties can result in a more complex and flavorful applesauce.
Can I meal prep apples for baking?
Yes, you can meal prep apples for baking by slicing and storing them in the refrigerator until you are ready to use them in your recipes.
How do I prevent sliced apples from browning?
To prevent sliced apples from browning, you can dip them in lemon juice or a mixture of water and lemon juice. The acid in lemon juice slows down the oxidation process.
Can I meal prep apples for salads?
Absolutely! Slicing apples in advance and storing them properly makes it convenient to add them to salads whenever you want.
Are there any alternative sweeteners for homemade applesauce?
Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar (#ad) to sweeten your homemade applesauce.
Can I use meal prepped apples for smoothies?
Definitely! Meal prepped apples can be a great addition to smoothies, adding natural sweetness and fiber to your drink.
