I have absolutely no time for a sit down dinner tonight, let alone prepare one! My schedule has me going from work to singing lessons and then off to a concert. I still need to eat dinner, though. 
We all have hectic schedules sometimes. But instead of making a run to the fast food drive through for convenience sake, why not grab something from home? I believe you can find healthier, inexpensive options at home that are just as quick and convenient.
You can still make healthy food choices even on those crazy days when you don't have a minute to spare. Super quick options for when you need to be out the door NOW:
- Bag of mini carrots, tub of hummus
- Brown rice or oat cakes and cheese (Laughing Cow, pre-sliced low-fat cheese, or string cheese)
- Whole grain crackers and beef or turkey jerky
- Whole grain crackers and cottage cheese
- Almonds and an apple and/or orange
- Tuna pouch and pita bread (A flavored tuna pouch works well in this case.)
These are literally grab and go. They provide both protein and a complex carb which will help satisfy and sustain. No assembly required, and you don't even need utensils. Quick, healthy, and easy!
When you do have those extra 60 seconds, try one of these healthy and easy options:
- Cereal or muesli and milk in a plastic container.
- Spread natural peanut butter on a whole wheat tortilla. Place a banana in the middle. Roll it it all up together.
- Wash a handful of grapes and berries. Put them in a container. Pour yogurt on top (or keep it separate).
- Make a sandwich with whole grain bread and whatever lean meat, low-fat cheese you have. Squirt some mustard on the bread, and add lettuce and a sliced tomato in there too if you can.
- Put whole grain tortilla chips in a microwave-save container; sprinkle low-fat cheese on top; microwave for 30 seconds; top with salsa. Don't forget a napkin!
- Blend together 1 ½ cup milk, a scoop of whey or soy protein powder, a dash of cinnamon, and a banana or handful of blueberries in a blender; pour in a portable mug.
All of these choices should take just a minute to prepare, but you can add additional yummy and healthy ingredients if you have even just a few extra minutes to spare.
One of the best ways to make sure you have a healthy and delicious on-the-go meal is to prepare ahead of time. As I mentioned in the past, planning and organization is your friend. This is especially important if you consistently keep a busy schedule. You will have greater meal options with a little planning and less temptation to grab that candy bar or buy those artery-clogging fries.
Tips to consider when preparing for on-the-go meals:
- Divide leftovers into individual containers.
- Freeze serving-sized meals for use on hectic days. Just microwave the meal in its container and go!
- Have a portable cooler or decent-sized lunch bag on call at all times.
- Keep a stash of napkins and plastic ware in your car, backpack, briefcase, or purse.
- Chop vegetables in advance and place in baggies.
- Slice cheese and meats ahead of time.
- Wash fruits ahead of time (unless prone to mold, like strawberries).
- Keep a few boiled eggs in the fridge for quick protein or turn them into egg salad for sandwiches.
- Pack your grab and go meal the day before when you know you'll be busy the next day.
- Have transportable yet healthy foods handy, like some of the options mentioned in the above lists.
OK, I've got my meals planned, my lunch packed, and my dinner within easy access for my brief stop at home later in the day. I'm set!
Now... did I remember to bring along the right sheet music for my singing lesson????
Do you have other healthy, super quick meal ideas? What do you do when you have to rush out the door (but still need to eat)?
.
(I just checked; the sheet music is there!) 
Originally posted 2008-03-28 09:15:26. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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2 comments ↓
I was so thankful that I already did this for myself (hello pregrilled chickenbreasts and cut up fruit) as it did make the transition to having a toddler that much easier—-I was already in the groove.
I usually grill/chop on sunday for the week and HAD NOT thought of many of the food you suggested above.
THANKS~
Having a little one automatically = busy life! Good for you and all your planning ahead! Makes eating clean that much easier in the long run.
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