MEL-PREP: EAT LIKE A PHD NUTRITIONIST-APRIL
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 2 hours 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 crash, with meals that actually support your body, even on busy weeks.
FIBRE:
Fibre is the fuel for your good gut 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 source. This meal-prep utilises complex carbohydrates which help you have sustained energy (a.k.a no afternoon crash!). Wholegrains, legumes, vegetables, fruits are great sources because they come packed with fibre, vitamins, minerals, and often plant-protein (such as beans, peas).
HEALTHY FATS:
Fats help your body certain vitamins (e.g., D, E, K, A) and they also help support healthy hormone production. Incorporating a source of fat at every meal also slows down digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
JOY:
Of course, the most important nutrient: joy. Nourishing our bodies does not only mean we need to focus on the micros and macros. Enjoyment is just as essential for sustainable, long-term habits and health. And these recipes will make you want to jump out of bed, they are so delicious.
So, what is on the menu this week?
BREAKFAST
BREAKFAST LEMON CHEESECAKE
with A Berry chia Compote
If you can do one thing for yourself to start your day better, make this lemon berry cheesecake. That way, no matter how busy life gets, you have a delicious, high-protein and fibre breakfast ready and waiting for you in the fridge.
Find full recipe here
LUNCH
FULLY LOADED FRITTATA
Nothing screams spring more than a frittata. It is loaded with veggies, packed with fibre and protein… oh and tastes so delicious too. But the best part is that it is super easy to make. The secret ingredient? Chickpeas. Thank me later.
Find full recipe here
SNACK
PEANUT BUTTER & JAM PROTEIN BARS
Peanut butter and jam is a classic for a reason and these protein bars will not disappoint. They are the perfect pick me up snack in the afternoon and they freeze well, so you can always have a high-protein snack on standby.
Find full recipe here
DINNER
SUPER GREENS LASANGE
Did someone say comfort food but make it nourishing? This one pot lasagne is exactly that. It is filled with protein, fibre, healthy fats and complex carbs, and most importantly, joy. A rich tomato base, topped with a creamy ricotta and spinach layer, an easy béchamel sauce, dollops of delicious pesto and lots of cheese to make this the ultimate weeknight dinner.
Find full recipe here