As the semester winds down and final exams loom large, life right now might feel like perfect storm of challenges: jam-packed schedules, shorter days, colder nights, and financial pressures with the holidays just around the corner. Amid the chaos, staying fueled with nutritious meals can feel like an impossible task—but it doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and creativity, you can prepare budget-friendly meals that save you time, keep you energized, and help you stay on top of your game.
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Meal prepping is a lifesaver during busy times, helping you to save time, money, and most importantly, your health. To set yourself up for the most success, aim to set a weekly budget, use what you already have first while cooking, and opt for simple, nutrient-dense recipes.
Pro Tip—Go Frozen: Frozen fruits and vegetables are nutrient-packed and often cheaper than fresh!
To start your journey as a soon-to-be meal prepping pro, here are three meal prep ideas to keep you nourished without breaking the bank this exam season:
1. One-Pot Wonders
One-pot meals like soups, stews, and casseroles are easy to make and yield multiple servings.
Example: Lentil soup with carrots, celery, and onions. Pair with bread or crackers for a hearty meal.
Cost Breakdown: Around $5 for 4-6 servings.
2. Mix-and-Match Bowls
Create versatile bowls using a mix of grains, proteins, and vegetables.
Base: Rice, quinoa, or pasta.
Protein: Hard-boiled eggs, beans, or shredded chicken.
Veggies: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables.
Extras: Drizzle with olive oil, soy sauce, or a simple vinaigrette.
3. Breakfast for the Week
Prep breakfasts to avoid the temptation of skipping the most important meal of the day.
Overnight Oats: Combine oats, milk (or plant-based alternative), and toppings like bananas or frozen berries in a jar.
Pro tip: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds and a little extra milk to your recipe for extra fiber and minerals, and an extra-filling start to the day!
Egg Muffins: Bake whisked eggs with veggies in a muffin tin and add them to an English muffin for an easy-to-grab breakfast sandwich, or enjoy them on their own as egg bites!
For more specific recipes, check out these website and invite your friends over for a group meal prep session to make it fun!
Balancing final exams, a tight budget, and the winter blues is tough, but meal prep can lighten the load. With a little effort, you’ll stay nourished, energized, and ready to tackle whatever the semester throws your way.
Don't forget to also keep an eye on Mason Jar Meal Program updates for all the latest info on our upcoming dates, recipes, and the meals you can get for FREE when you sign up! Pssst... the next one is happening December 12th — register while you can.
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