Craving the convenience of meal prep but dreading the clutter of containers? Say goodbye to bulky storage!
Find out how to master the art of container-free meal prep in this blog post. We’ve got innovative, eco-friendly tips to keep your meals fresh and your kitchen spacious.
Ready for a game-changing meal prep experience? Let’s begin!
Plan Your Meals
The first step in meal prepping without containers is to plan your meals for the week. Take some time to think about what you want to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day.
Consider any specific dietary restrictions or preferences you have, as well as any ingredients that are in season or on sale.
Once you have a rough idea of your meals for the week, you can start thinking about how to prepare them without using traditional containers.
Use Mason Jars
Mason jars are a versatile and sustainable alternative to traditional food storage containers. They come in various sizes and are perfect for storing salads, soups, overnight oats, and more.
You can layer ingredients in a mason jar to create beautiful and convenient grab-and-go meals.
For example, you can layer salad dressings at the bottom, followed by your choice of proteins, vegetables, and greens. When it’s time to eat, simply shake the jar and enjoy your fresh salad!
Use Reusable Wraps
Another way to meal prep without containers is to use beeswax wraps or silicone bags to store your food. Beeswax wraps (#ad) are a natural and reusable alternative to plastic wrap, while silicone bags are durable and easy to clean.
You can use beeswax wraps to wrap sandwiches, cheese, fruits, and vegetables. Silicone bags (#ad) are perfect for storing snacks like nuts, seeds, or chopped fruits. Both options are great for reducing waste and keeping your food fresh.
Invest in Reusable Food Pouches
Reusable food pouches are a convenient option for storing smoothies, purees, sauces, and soups without traditional containers. These pouches are easy to fill and clean, making them ideal for on-the-go meals or snacks.
Simply pour your favorite smoothie or soup into the pouches and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Utilize Bento Boxes
Bento boxes are a practical way to portion out your meals without using traditional containers. These compartmentalized boxes allow you to pack different foods in one container without them mixing.
You can use bento boxes to pack a variety of items such as rice, vegetables, protein, and fruits for a balanced meal on the go.
Opt for Wrap-and-Go Meals
Wraps are an excellent alternative to traditional container-based meals. You can fill tortillas or flatbreads with your favorite ingredients such as grilled chicken, veggies, hummus, or beans for a quick and easy meal that doesn’t require a container.
Simply wrap them up in parchment paper or beeswax wraps for easy storage.
Freeze Your Meals
If you have limited space in your fridge or prefer not to use traditional containers at all, consider batch cooking and freezing your meals instead.
Invest in reusable silicone freezer bags or glass jars with wide mouths that can be used for freezing soups, stews, sauces, or pre-cooked grains like quinoa or rice.
Repurpose Glass Jars
Glass jars from pasta sauce, salsa, pickles, or jam can be repurposed as storage for homemade dressings, sauces, condiments, or single-serve desserts like chia pudding or overnight oats.
Make sure to clean them thoroughly before reusing them.
Wrap Up
Meal prepping without containers offers plenty of possibilities for organizing your meals efficiently while reducing waste from single-use plastic containers.
So go ahead and give it a try – you might just find that it revolutionizes the way you approach meal prep!
FAQ’s
Can I use mason jars for storing hot food?
Yes, mason jars are safe for storing hot food as long as you leave enough space at the top to allow for expansion and use caution when handling them.
How do I clean beeswax wraps?
You can simply wash beeswax wraps with cold water and mild soap, then air dry them before using them again.
Are reusable food pouches easy to fill?
Yes, reusable food pouches typically have a wide opening that makes them easy to fill with your favorite smoothies, purees, or soups.
Can I microwave food in bento boxes?
It’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific bento box, but many are microwave-safe for quick and convenient reheating.
Can I freeze glass jars without them breaking?
Yes, but make sure to use wide-mouth glass jars designed for freezing and leave enough space at the top to allow for expansion.
How long can wrap-and-go meals stay fresh?
If properly wrapped in beeswax wraps or parchment paper, wrap-and-go meals can stay fresh for 1-2 days in the refrigerator.
Are there any foods that don’t freeze well?
Foods high in water content like lettuce, cucumbers, and watermelon don’t freeze well and may become mushy when thawed.
Do glass jars need a special lid when repurposed for meal prep?
No, but it’s important to ensure the lid is clean and tightly sealed to keep your food fresh.
What should I look out for when shopping smart for meal prep ingredients?
Aim to buy locally-sourced produce, bulk grains and legumes, and consider purchasing reusable alternatives such as silicone bags or beeswax wraps if needed.
How can I prevent my frozen meals from getting freezer burn?
To prevent freezer burn, make sure to remove as much air as possible from your freezer bags or containers before sealing them tightly. You can also consider using a vacuum sealer for extra protection.
