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Home » Recipe Collections

19 Fresh & Fast Meal Prep Recipes for a Healthy Month

Published: Mar 5, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Fresh and fast—that’s the name of the game when it comes to meal prep that actually makes life easier. These recipes are all about great flavors, simple ingredients, and zero wasted time in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to eat better, save money, or just have something ready to grab when hunger hits, this lineup has you covered. No boring meals here—just real food that’s easy to make and great to eat.

A plate of Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping.
Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Sesame Tofu

An overhead image of sesame tofu with rice on the side.
Sesame Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy sesame tofu is tossed with caramelized vegetables and a rich, nutty sauce. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a solid choice for weeknight dinners or when you’re cooking for a small group.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Tofu

Microwave Asparagus

An overhead image of microwave asparagus in a serving plate with slices of lemon on the side.
Microwave Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Steamed asparagus in the microwave takes only five minutes and requires little effort. This simple side is an easy way to add something nutritious to your meal without extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Asparagus

Sheet Pan Bibimbap

A bowl of Sheet Pan Bibimbap with a pair of chopsticks.
Sheet Pan Bibimbap. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sheet pan bibimbap combines roasted vegetables and crispy tofu in a single pan for easy cleanup. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a great choice when you want something flavorful with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Bibimbap

Mushroom Stroganoff

An image of mushroom stroganoff and white rice on a plate, with a fork on the side.
Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy mushroom stroganoff comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights when you need something quick and comforting. Serve it with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a hassle-free meal with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Broccoli cheddar soup is filled with vegetables and cheese, creating a hearty meal. Ready in 35 minutes, it’s a budget-friendly option for any night when you want something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This copycat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese is ready in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to for a quick, creamy meal. It’s rich, comforting, and easy to prepare when you want something satisfying without much work.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping

Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Grilled steak with herbed scallion topping is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s a great choice for summer grilling when you want something simple with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping

Carrot Casserole

An overhead image of baked carrot casserole.
Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Carrot casserole with creamy cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping comes together quickly. This comforting dish is an easy option when you need a side that requires minimal preparation.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Casserole

Lemon Herb Chicken Patties

Close-up image of lemon herb chicken patties with veggie sides on a plate.
Lemon Herb Chicken Patties. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Lemon herb chicken patties bring fresh flavors with lemon, herbs, and parmesan cheese. This simple recipe is a great option for a quick chicken dinner when you want something flavorful without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Herb Chicken Patties

Ethiopian Cabbage

A close up image of cooked Ethiopian cabbage in a skillet pan with a wooden serving spoon mixing the dish.
Ethiopian Cabbage. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ethiopian cabbage stew (Atakilt Wat) is made with pantry-friendly ingredients and fragrant spices, creating a flavorful one-pot meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy way to enjoy a bold, budget-conscious dish.
Get the Recipe: Ethiopian Cabbage

Halloumi Salad

Close-up image of copycat aroma espresso bar fried halloumi salad.
Halloumi Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Fried halloumi salad with arugula, cabbage, and mushrooms adds bold flavors to the table. The crispy cheese pairs well with various dishes, making it an easy addition to any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Salad

Easy Egg Rolls

An image of vegan egg rolls arranged on a serving dish with sweet chili sauce on the side.
Easy Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan egg rolls are crispy on the outside and packed with flavorful ingredients. Ready in 20 minutes, they’re an easy and affordable snack or appetizer for casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Egg Rolls

Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Honey Lemon Pepper Thighs with parsley on a white plate.
Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Honey lemon pepper chicken thighs balance sweet honey, tangy lemon, and bold pepper in every bite. This easy recipe is a great choice for a flavorful chicken dinner that doesn’t take long to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Green Beans and Potatoes

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it.
Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Green beans and potatoes cook in just 25 minutes, making a simple and cost-effective side dish. It pairs well with a variety of mains, helping to round out your meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes

Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted Brussels sprouts with pancetta, feta, and pomegranate create a flavorful side dish. It’s a simple way to add something special to the table without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

Mushroom Masala

An image of cooked mushroom masala in a skillet.
Mushroom Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom masala features tender mushrooms in a rich tomato-coconut sauce and is ready in just 30 minutes. Serve it with rice or naan for a quick meal that brings big flavors without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Masala

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry served with white rice on a white plate.
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shaved beef stir-fry features tender beef slices coated in a bold sauce and comes together in just minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that delivers big flavors without the wait, perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Potato And Sausage Chowder

Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
Potato And Sausage Chowder. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Potato and sausage chowder is a one-pot meal that brings rich, savory flavors to the table. It’s a convenient choice for nights when you want something hearty without spending too much time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Potato And Sausage Chowder

Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

An image of lemon butter pasta in a bowl.
Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon butter pasta is light, buttery, and ready in under 30 minutes. With simple ingredients and a fast prep time, it’s an easy dinner choice when you need something effortless.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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