The Beauty of Having a Weekly Meal Plan
I really try to be organized, which for me is a work in progress. Recently I read a great book by Annette and Steve Economides, "Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half." Among the many wonderful pieces of advice, they suggested making meal plans. While they have worked up to planning meals for a whole month, I still have a ways to go until I get to that point. I am at the first step, which is planning for the week.
Making a weekly meal plan has proven a really great tool. First and foremost, knowing in advance what to prepare so I don't fumble around at the last minute trying to figure out what's for dinner. Also, a weekly meal plan helps me plan my shopping trips more efficiently. With this in mind, I thought I would share my plan for the week with you.
You will notice that I am only including dinners. When starting something new, I am a firm believer in baby steps. It keeps you moving forward in the process without getting too overwhelmed. When I started, I only planned for dinners. Now I am working my way into planning lunches and breakfasts, as well as snacks I will bake for the week.
By the way, when making the meal plan, I always keep in mind my schedule for that particular week. If it's relatively empty, I have more time to potche with complicated recipes. If it's busier, I try and plan for faster, easier meals.
Here we go.....
Monday: Quinoa and Broccoli Cheese Soup
Tuesday: Fish Sticks with Corn
Wednesday: Lasagna with Hearty, Vegetable Tomato Sauce
Thursday: Open Crepes with Vanilla Yogurt and Strawberries and Blueberries
Friday (Pre-Shabbos Meal): Walnut crusted Salmon, Gefilte Fish. Potato Kugel
Baked goods to make for snacks/quick breakfasts: GF cinnamon nut cookies, chocolate chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, and (if I have time) breakfast oat bars.
Stay tuned for more upcoming meal plans and, of course, the recipes!