Kitchen Essentials for Healthy Meals

If you want to save yourself some time preparing meals for your family, then make a shopping list. Have paper and pen in the kitchen so when you run out of something you can add it to your list.  It is also a good idea to plan out your meals for the week.  This way you can sit down and make a shopping list so you have everything you need before you start preparing meals.

If you have a food budget, having a shopping list is imperative otherwise you may end up buying food that doesn’t get eaten and then needs to be thrown out. Or you may end up impulse buying and those purchases are often snack food rather than healthy food.

An easy way to start the day is with a delicious smoothie especially if you are short on time in the morning. If you don’t have time to eat, then take a smoothie in a container and drink on the way to work or when you get there.

Kids love smoothies and they are fast and easy to make. They can boost your energy as they contain loads of fiber and vitamins and minerals. They are easy to make because all you need to do is add your favorite juice or water, a bunch of fruits and vegetables and some protein powder and you are good to go!

In the blender add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of juice or water and then add 4 ounces of yogurt. Next add in your favorite fruit. Try adding in frozen berries such as strawberries (1/2 to 1/3 cup), blueberries or raspberries.  Add a banana or frozen pineapple to make it sweet. Add a scoop of your favorite protein power and blend until smooth.

If you want to make it a green smoothie just add a handful of greens such kale or spinach. If you find the smoothie is too thick, just add a little more juice or water or if it is too thin, add more fruit.