Sustainable Meal Planning: My best tips

4 Feb

It’s February, and if you’re feeling like your “new year, new me” detox plan didn’t stick—take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and more importantly, you’re not the problem. Quick fixes and rigid diets are designed to fail because they don’t fit into real life.

Let’s shift gears. Meal planning doesn’t have to mean spreadsheets, endless meal prep, or cutting out your favorite foods. In fact, it can be flexible, simple, and even fun. My approach to sustainable meal planning is all about joy and nourishment—not perfection. Here’s how you can create a meal plan that fits your life, supports your goals, and is something you can actually stick with all year long.

1. Plan Weekly (But Keep It Flexible)

Start each week with a rough plan, but leave room for life to happen. Sketch out 3–5 main meals you want to make, keeping in mind any nights you might eat out or grab takeaway.

Pro Tip:

Include a mix of no-cook meals, quick recipes, and heartier dishes that give you leftovers.
Don’t forget to plan for fun—add chocolate, your favorite snacks, or dessert into your weekly plan. (Did you notice when you cut out your favourite foods how much more you craved them!? Having access and purposely planning in your favourites foods is a much better strategy. You don’t have to eat perfectly ALL of the time.)

2. Cook Once, Eat Twice

Make life easier by cooking in batches. Double a recipe and save half for later in the week, or freeze portions for those days when cooking feels impossible.

Ideas to Try:

Roast a big tray of veggies to use in salads, grain bowls, or as a side.
Cook extra pasta or grains to use in soups, stir-fries, or wraps.
Make a big pot of soup or stew—it’s easy, comforting, and reheats well.

3. Embrace Pantry Staples

Your pantry is your best friend when it comes to sustainable meal planning. Stock up on versatile ingredients that can turn into a meal in minutes.

Pantry Staples to Keep on Hand:

Canned beans, lentils, and tomatoes
Grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous
Nut butters, olive oil, and vinegars for easy dressings
Spices to keep flavors interesting

4. Order Groceries Online

Save time by ordering groceries online. You can stick to your list, plan better, and even repeat orders for your pantry staples.

5. Mix in No-Cook Meals

Not every meal needs to involve cooking. Keep a few no-cook options in your rotation for those extra-busy days.

Ideas to Try:

A hearty salad with pre-cooked chicken or chickpeas
A grain bowl with veggies, avocado, and hummus
A simple snack plate with crackers, cheese, fruit, and nuts

6. Make It Fun and Varied

Boredom is the enemy of meal planning. Keep things exciting by trying one new recipe a week or experimenting with a different cuisine. And don’t shy away from spontaneity—if you feel like going out for pizza, enjoy it guilt-free and adjust your plan as needed.

7. Keep It Real

The best meal plan is the one you can actually follow. It’s not about eating “perfectly” every day—it’s about finding what works for you and your lifestyle. Build in flexibility, enjoy the foods you love, and remember: it’s okay to veer off plan.

Your 2025 Meal Planning Mantra

Meal planning isn’t about restriction—it’s about creating ease, nourishment, and joy in your life. By keeping it simple, flexible, and full of variety, you’ll set yourself up for success long after February.

If you’re ready to create a sustainable approach to food that feels doable and enjoyable, I’d love to help. Let’s build a plan that works for you, your schedule, and your taste buds. Here’s to a year of eating well and feeling great—without the stress.

Morgan x