I have to remind myself sometimes, when I’m feeling lazy that eating well isn’t hard work…if you make it simple. Over the years I have discovered several ways to help me eat better, prepare food faster and make it more convenient. Unless you love spending hours in the kitchen…lets face it, it IS all about convenience.

I always want veggies and dip…or salad. But I hate cutting up everything- especially after a long day and I’m tired and HUNGRY. I now buy all my veggies on one day of the week, usually Sunday because that’s just what works for me…I come home and spend less than an hour of my time cutting and chopping. I put everything into resealable containers, and even my lettuce is washed and ready to be thrown in a bowl. I don’t cut tomatoes obviously, as they would dry out, but everything else is fair game. I don’t soak my veggies in water either since all the nutrients will seep out into the liquid, but soak a paper towel or cloth napkin and lie on top or around the veggies. This keeps them crunchy! Now when I come home during the week, making a salad is as simple as dumping my lettuce in a bowl, and adding all the good stuff.

I always keep an array of stuff from the bulk section too. This section of the grocery store is your best friend. I buy nuts and seeds here, dried fruit and granola (among other things). I always top my salads with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and a dried fruit of some kind- I lean towards cranberries.

Another staple in my fridge is a mixture of beans and rice. I flip between flavors and cravings but currently it’s been Spanish rice and black beans. I cook up a pot and put in fridge and makes an excellent QUICK burrito or wrap- hot or cold. You could throw meat in of course, and whatever else your little heart desires. It’s all about taste and convenience.

I’m also big on chili. I think it’s a great thing to simmer on the stove on weekend day, mixing and adding all the yummy stuff you want…,make it as spicy as you want…or as mild. I make a huge batch and freeze into portions. It only gets better with time! I discovered a chili burrito with rice is also a great way to use it up…Basically when you make things like pasta sauce- make MORE. And then freeze into portions. Knowing you have that to come home to, instead of say, ripping open a bag of *shudder* Mr Noodles, can make all the difference.

(Yes I use the Yves Veggie Ground “Burger” for my chili! Adds my protein and bulks it up.)
All it takes is a little planning….a little time (and I do mean LITTLE time) to make sure you eat well and love what you’re eating. If you put the effort into it, your body will thank you.

Until next time,
Love Chere Michelle

Tags: blog, blogging, chere, chere michelle, chili, diet, lose weight, obese, self esteem, vegetarian, weight loss