What to make when You donʼt feel like cooking?

What to Make When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking?

Sometimes, the thought of stepping into the kitchen and cooking a meal can be overwhelming. Whether you’re exhausted, stressed, or simply not in the mood, it’s normal to want to take a break from cooking. But, of course, you still need to eat! So, what do you do when you don’t feel like cooking? In this article, we’ll explore some delicious and easy-to-make options to satisfy your hunger without feeling like you’re slaving away in the kitchen.

Option 1: Leftovers

Before reaching for takeout or delivery, take a look at what you already have in your fridge or freezer. Leftovers can be a lifesaver on a day when you don’t feel like cooking. You can reheat them and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal. Here are some ideas:

• Last night’s dinner: Whether it’s a casserole, roasted chicken, or a hearty stew, you can easily reheat it for lunch or dinner the next day.
• Frozen meals: If you have frozen meals like mac and cheese, chicken nuggets, or veggie burgers, you can cook them in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy meal.
• Cooked rice or grains: If you cooked a large batch of rice or quinoa, you can use it to make a salad or stir-fry for a quick and easy meal.

Option 2: One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals are a great option when you don’t feel like cooking. They’re quick, easy, and require minimal cleanup. Here are some ideas:

• Pasta: Cook pasta, sauce, and your choice of protein (e.g., sausage, chicken, or shrimp) in one pot.
• Stir-fries: Cook your favorite stir-fry ingredients (e.g., vegetables, tofu, and noodles) in a wok or large skillet.
• Chili: Cook ground beef, beans, and vegetables in a pot for a hearty, comforting meal.

Option 3: Salads and Sandwiches

When you’re not feeling like cooking, a salad or sandwich can be a refreshing and easy option. Here are some ideas:

• Classic combinations: Try pairing tuna with lettuce and tomato or combining chicken with avocado and bacon.
• Wraps: Fill a tortilla with your favorite ingredients, such as turkey, cheese, and veggies.
• Salad bowls: Add some cooked chicken, quinoa, or tofu to your favorite greens for a protein-packed meal.

Option 4: Delivery and Takeout

Sometimes, even the thought of making something simple can be overwhelming. In that case, it’s okay to indulge in delivery or takeout. Here are some healthy and delicious options:

• Pizza: Look for local pizza places that offer gluten-free crusts or vegetarian options.
• Salads: Many restaurants offer large salads that can be made to order.
• Bowl bars: Try a local bowl bar that offers customized, healthy bowls with rice, quinoa, and vegetables.

Option 5: Meal Delivery Services

If you’re feeling exhausted or overwhelmed, meal delivery services can be a game-changer. Here are some popular options:

• Blue Apron: Receive pre-measured ingredients and recipes to cook a meal at home.
• HelloFresh: Choose from a variety of recipes and receive pre-measured ingredients and cooking instructions.
• Sun Basket: Receive healthy, pre-portioned ingredients and recipes for a quick and easy meal.

Conclusion

When you don’t feel like cooking, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But, with these options, you can still enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without having to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you choose leftovers, one-pot meals, salads, sandwiches, delivery, or meal delivery services, you can take a break from cooking and still nourish your body.

Useful Tips and Tricks:

• Keep a meal prep container: Pre-cook ingredients like rice, quinoa, and roasted vegetables to use in future meals.
• Keep a stash of condiments: Store condiments like soy sauce, salsa, and hot sauce in the fridge for quick meal assembly.
• Prepare in advance: Chop veggies and cook proteins in advance to make meal prep easier.
• Keep it simple: Don’t be too hard on yourself. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep meals simple and focus on healthy ingredients.

Table: Healthy Meal Options

By following these tips and options, you can take a break from cooking and still enjoy a healthy and delicious meal.