Everybody wishes they had more time to prepare honest healthy food, but unless you have a personal chef waiting for you at home, finding the time to cook these meals – not to mention cleaning up afterwards! – can be a challenge. Making ahead, freezing and reheating are your best options for quick, no fuss, and on-the-go nourishing meals and snacks – and reusable pouches are perfect for storing, reheating and serving some delicious ideas.
Breakfast time
Smoothies. Did you know you can freeze smoothies in batches up to a week in advance? Simply chop and blend any ingredients you like – think kale and spinach for you, and blueberries and strawberries for your little one – then place directly into a freeze-friendly pouch and into the freezer. For a nutritious breakfast on the go, allow your smoothie to defrost overnight in the fridge. Alternatively, pack a pouch in the kid’s school bag for a healthy snack that’ll be ready for them by lunchtime.
Lunch to munch
Soup. Soups are one of the more versatile meals you can prep, cook and freeze months in advance. It’s super handy when you have a family to feed, and will keep even the hungriest bellies happy. Cook up your favourite soups – old favourites include pumpkin, potato and leek, or chicken noodle – and pour cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe pouch in individual servings – perfect for a fast lunch at home or work. If you plan your meals in advance, defrost in the fridge prior to reheating, but if you’re in a real hurry, thaw in the microwave or on the cooktop on a low heat. Most soups will last anywhere from three to six months in the freezer.
Dinner winners
Pesto. If you can handle yourself long enough to refrain from eating a fresh mix of homemade pesto, you’ll soon find out just how easy it is to freeze and enjoy for months down the track. After blending the ingredients – which takes only minutes – pour into a pouch in family serves and pop them into the freezer. Pesto will last up to twelve weeks frozen. When you’re ready to eat, defrost in the fridge prior to heating in the microwave, and stir through with your favourite pasta (add cooked chicken, if you like). It’ll be like having a freshly made meal every single time.