On Thursday I mentioned my plans to stock the pantry in preparation of the arrival of my little-one-to-be and my impending job loss. A few readers provided great ideas on preparing and freezing meals in advance as well as creating weekly menu ideas. The more I think about it, the more I like the idea of both creating a menu and preparing make-ahead meals.
I was wondering if anyone can direct me to blogs or websites that discuss menu planning in more detail. While I don’t want to create crazy and elaborate entrees, it would be nice to have a quasi-plan in place that will limit take out, especially during those first few months.
I found a few sites that recommend meal planning, but when I dig into them I find a lot of their menus involve eating breakfast for dinner. While I wouldn’t mind doing this every so often, (I actually love scrambled eggs and french toast for dinner), I’m not sure that I want to make that a weekly staple.
So I’m handing this one off to my readers in the hopes of hearing about your ideas and suggestions. Do you plan a weekly meal menu or do you fly by the seat of your pants each night? If you make a menu where do you find inspiration and how long does it take to prepare and cook an average night’s meal?
I’m looking for solutions that are healthy, but relatively quick. I’m also hoping for suggestions that will involve a bit of variety so I’m not staring at the same set of meals over and over.
If you have any ideas or thoughts on meal planning please leave me a comment and let me know what you think.
I'm behind on my reading but I would suggest Simplifried.com. It came out of Unclutterer.com (which you would also love) and has a very simple way doing things.
Also, please share your adventures in meal planning. I have never been able to do it consistently and would love to see how you go about it.