MEL-PREP: EAT LIKE A PHD NUTRITIONIST-JANUARY
MEAL PREP LIKE A PHD NUTRITIONIST
I know, standing in the kitchen for hours, coming up with different recipes every time, while also making them nourishing, is daunting. Nutrition should always add to your life, and not take you away from it, which is why this meal-prep series is going to be a lifesaver. The plan is designed to give you a 100g of protein and 30g of fibre a day, to leave you full and satisfied, even when you are busy. It gives you different ways to use up the same meal, so it never gets boring. The best part? They are as delicious as they are nutritious. The meal-prep is plant-forward with flexible protein options to suit your dietary requirements.
The meal prep requires about an hour on a Sunday, and gives you versatile recipes for Monday-Thursday that don’t get boring.
BALANCING YOUR PLATE:
When you include protein, healthy fats, complex carbs and fibre in one plate, you support stable energy, better blood sugar control and feeling fuller for longer. This meal-prep is based on balanced meals that can help you avoid skipping breakfast, having that afternoon crush, with meals that actually support your body, even on busy weeks.
FIBRE:
Fibre is the fuel for your good bacteria. Aiming for around 30g of fibre a day helps to keep your gut happy and healthy.
PROTEIN:
Protein isn’t just for muscles, it’s essential for hormones, enzymes, immune function and satiety. Including enough protein in your diet helps slow digestion, supports steady blood sugar, and keeps you feeling satisfied for hours. This meal prep aims for 100g protein per day.
COMPLEX CARBS:
Carbs are your body’s preferred fuel and when slowly digested carbohydrates help you have sustained energy without that crash. Wholegrains, legumes, vegetables, fruits are great sources and they are also usually come paired with fibre, vitamins, minerals, and often plant-protein (such as beans, peas).
HEALTHY FATS:
Fats help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (D, E, K, A), support hormone production. It also slows down digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
JOY:
Of course, the most important nutrient: joy. Noruishing our bodies does not only mean to focus on the micros and macros. Enjoyment is just as essential for sustainable, long-term habits and health. These recipes will make you want to jump out of bed, they are so delicious.
So, what is on the menu this week?
BREAKFAST
CHOCOLATE BROWNIE BAKED OATS
This is what happens when comfort food and Nutrition Science actually get along. These chocolate brownie baked oats are rich, fudgy and lightly sweet. They are built on slow-release carbs, fibre and protein to keep you full all morning. Oats, flaxseeds and chia seeds feed your gut with fibre, cacao brings antioxidants and polyphenols, and the peanut butter swirl? Pure joy (and healthy fats). This will actually make even a busy morning enjoyable.
Find full recipe here
LUNCH
CHICKPEA CEASAR SALAD SANDWICH FILLER
This is your new “throw-it-on-anything” lunch. Crispy chickpeas, kale, creamy cashew Caesar dressing and smoky tempeh come together for a fibre-rich, protein-packed filling that works everywhere — sandwich, wrap, pitta or jacket potato. It’s hearty, satisfying and designed to keep your energy steady throughout the afternoon. Big flavours, small effort, maximum nourishment.
Find full recipe here
SNACK
HOME-MADE PROTEIN BARS
Another proof how nourishment can be fun. Made with peanut butter, oats, seeds and a touch of natural sweetness, they deliver protein, fibre and healthy fats in every bite. All coated in dark chocolate, for the ultimate snack experience. Warning, you try it once, you will want to keep making it.
Find full recipe here
DINNER:
SUN-DRIED TOMATO & BUTTERBEAN STEW
Beans are your gut’s best friend. This stew is packed with fibre from the butterbeans which are in a creamy, tomato sauce. It’s creamy, dreamy and butterbean-y. Serve with some grains, your favorite protein, and dinner is solved, in the most delicious way.
Find full recipe here