Workplace Fitness: Make-ahead meals

Making meals in advance is an absolute necessity for most people when it comes to eating healthy at work. Sure, you can find some healthy restaurant/cafe options for lunch if you're really savvy about it, but who can afford to eat out every day? And even if you can, you probably don't always have the time to sit down and order food. It's a fact -- vending machines and convenience foods have become staples in our diet, both at work and at home. There's just not enough time in the day to be healthy. Or so it seems.

But learning some good techniques, some good recipes, and a good routine for making meals ahead of time to both feed yourself at work and to feed your family on those rushed after-work evenings is a valuable thing, and you may be surprised to find that you really do have the time. Making food ahead of time may sound like a pain at first, but what it really does is give you back control. You pick when and what, instead of having 'convenience' pick it for you at mealtimes when there's nothing ready but microwavable tv dinners or pizza.Depending on what you're making and just how much time you're trying to save you have options on how you go about pre-preparing meals. You can make meals 100% and simply freeze or refrigerate for microwaving later, or you can simply assemble uncooked ingredients and store everything in baking dishes to cook them fresh on the day.

Some foods that take particularly well to making-ahead are soups, because the flavors really come out when they get the chance to marinate together, and any recipes in a slow-cooker. Other general foods that should work well are stews, casseroles, and even most meats. Anything that can be reheated and still taste good. More unique items that you may not have considered are things like crepes, which can be stored in the fridge and warmed up with filling later, and quiches which can be served either warm or cold. Also don't forget other cold items like pasta and potato salads.

Check out these recipes from WebMD and start a healthier lifestyle for you and your loved ones!