Meal prepping is a great way to save time and money, and contribute to an overall more nutritionally balanced diet. I have four easy recipes packed with nutrition starting with breakfast chia pudding.
Breakfast: Chia Pudding
Chia seeds may be small in size, but they are packed with filling fiber which helps you feel fuller longer. These unique seeds can expand up to 10 times their weight in liquid, which makes them perfect for puddings. Simply combine 3 tbsp of chia seeds, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup and ¾ cup unsweetened nut milk. Whisk together with a fork amd let it sit for 10 min to thicken before mixing again to distribute the seeds. Cover and refrigerate overnight and add your desired toppings in the morning. You can get all of these ingredients and more better-for-you ingredients and products Sprouts Farmers Market, including natural and organic foods, farm-fresh produce, bulk foods, fresh meat and seafood, and vitamins and supplements.
Lunch: Hummus Veggie Pitas
For lunch, we have hummus veggie pitas. You’ll need: spinach, shredded carrots, red cabbage, cucumber, tomato, hummus, and whole wheat pita. One pro grocery shopping tip is to shop with the seasons. In-season produce typically tastes the best, is at its nutritional peak and is often more affordable. Sprouts Farmers market keeps seasonality top of mind and works with local farmers to bring in the season’s freshest, most delicious produce including limited-time varieties. Eating with the seasons also allows you to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables which each offer their own unique package of nutrients to help meet your needs.
Snack: Date and Nut Energy Bites
For an energizing mid-day snack, try my coconut brownie energy bites. Simply combine 2 cups of nuts, 2 cups of soft pitted medjool dates, and 2 tbsp of unsweetened cacao powder in a food processor until a sticky dough forms. Roll the energy bites in unsweetened coconut and store in the fridge for an easy grab and go snack option. You can find these ingredients in the bulk foods section at Sprouts as well as other affordable plant-based, gluten-free and dairy-free options, and healthy alternatives.
Dinner: Vegetarian Chili
For dinner, try a veggie chili packed with veggies, plant protein and flavorful spices and herbs. The great thing about Sprouts is that they offer a fresh, friendly take on grocery shopping with their bright and airy farmers market experience where exploration and discovery happen naturally. Customize your vegetarian chili with your choice of vegetables, beans, flavorful spices and herbs, broth and lentil pasta if desired which adds additional plant protein, fiber and energizing carbohydrates. Cook the vegetables in a large pot with oil, stir in the beans, seasonings and broth, and cover and cook for 30 minutes until thickened. You can store the leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy all week long.
