I am a person who likes to stay on top of things, so as my arthritis continues to get worse, I’ve been researching ways I can experience less pain, that doesn’t involve medication.
Cooking nutritious meals is certainly high on my list, and I don’t want to give up the foods that I love.
Does this sound like you? Thankfully, a few healthy tweaks here and there can really make a difference. Prepping foods in advance is a real time-saver so you don’t have to stress out wondering what you’re going to cook.
Batch Cook
You just want to fix something quickly at mealtime, and not have a ton of dirty dishes. Pick a slow day and make up full portions of your favorite foods. Portion them out for the freezer and when you’re ready to serve a meal, just heat and eat.
Don’t Forget Vegetables
Most freezer meals are casseroles which may or may not include vegetables. Make recipes like Shepherd’s pie, and give them a healthy makeover.
This Healthy Shepherd’s Pie calls for olive oil instead of butter, extra-lean ground beef, lots of vegetables, and a cauliflower-potato mash topping for a lighter take on the classic that’s still FULL of flavor!
Roasted Vegetable Burritos are great when you have a Mexican food craving. The bean filling is already nutritious but when you add in rice, zucchini, and mushrooms, it’s even better.
Freeze Sandwiches
When I go out to eat, I usually prefer a sandwich instead of a heartier meat entrée. Any sandwich that does not have a mayonnaise base can be frozen.
Now, that I am trying to practice portion control, I tend to eat a half sandwich instead of a whole. My favorite is of course peanut butter and jelly. You could also freeze canned tuna, salmon, or deli meats like ham and turkey.
If you do freeze deli meats, freeze in their original package. If you have already opened, lay individual slices on pieces of wax paper or even paper towels, and freeze stacked in a plastic bag.
Save Room for Dessert
Chocolate Mug Cake is a real indulgence, and since it is just one serving you don’t have to worry about overindulging and having a second helping. It’s easy to make, it’s chocolate, and it is all yours.
I could eat Apple Crisp every day of the week and six or seven times on Sunday. This recipe is designed for two, so don’t feel you have to share.
Make-Ahead-Salad
Put your salad together the night before and it will be nice and cold for dinner. You may want to sneak some out for a work lunch. If you prefer more of a main dish salad, this recipe will fill the bill.
Summary
Cooking healthy food can be fun, and you’ll get to try new recipes that will improve your culinary skills. If eating healthy helps your arthritis pain, that’s a win-win situation. Start creating your culinary masterpieces today!
