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Healthy Meal Prep for Weight Loss: 0 Point Lunch! – Pear Baked Oatmeal & Copycat Perfect Bars
Meal prepping is a fantastic strategy for staying on track with weight loss goals while enjoying delicious and nutritious foods. This article focuses on a refreshing 0 point lunch option featuring Pear Baked Oatmeal paired with Copycat Perfect Bars. Both recipes are simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and make for satisfying meals throughout the week.
Pear Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Optional: nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, diced pears, almond milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Stir until well combined.
Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Bake: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Cool and Slice: Allow it to cool before slicing into portions. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve it warm with a drizzle of almond milk or a sprinkle of nuts. You can also top it with fresh fruits for added flavor.
Copycat Perfect Bars
These bars are delicious, nutritious, and perfect for snacking after a workout or as a quick on-the-go breakfast.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla flavor works well)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, rolled oats, protein powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Prepare Baking Tray: Line a small baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Press and Freeze: Spread the mixture evenly in the dish and press down firmly. Place in the freezer for about 30 minutes to set.
Cut into Bars: Once set, remove from the dish using the parchment overhang and cut into bars.
- Store: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Benefits of Meal Prepping
Saves Time: Preparing meals in advance cuts down on cooking time during the week, allowing you to enjoy more time with family or focus on other priorities.
Controlled Portions: Meal prep helps manage portion sizes, which is essential for weight loss. It makes it easier to stick to your dietary goals.
Healthier Choices: By prepping your meals, you’re more likely to choose healthier foods over convenient, processed options.
- Variety: Preparing different recipes allows for a diverse menu throughout the week, preventing boredom with meals.
Conclusion
Healthy meal prepping doesn’t have to be complex or time-consuming. By preparing Pear Baked Oatmeal and Copycat Perfect Bars, you can create nutritious, satisfying meals to support your weight loss journey. Enjoy these delicious options as part of a balanced diet, and watch how easy it becomes to reach your health goals!