One Base, Several Meals: The Easiest Way to Meal Prep

When we think of meal prep, we often picture one of two scenarios. The first: spending several hours in the kitchen preparing different recipes so there is variety throughout the week. The second: cooking one recipe in a large batch, but eating exactly the same thing for several days.

But what if I told you there is a third option? One that keeps you from spending your entire Sunday in the kitchen while still making it feel like you are eating completely different meals all week long.

The secret? Prepare one base, then reinvent it in different ways.

This way, you get all the benefits of meal prep—less time in the kitchen, fewer dishes and dinners that come together quickly—without the monotony of eating the same meal day after day.

A Versatile Base

Here is a base I love to prepare. It is simple, flavourful and incredibly versatile.

Explore the recipe: Sheet-Pan Sausages and Roasted Vegetables

An Easy Formula to Recreate

What I love about this method is that the sausage adds plenty of flavour without requiring any extra effort. Simply choose your favourite variety to give the dish a different character, such as La Fernandière’s Mild Italian, Bacon Cheddar, Merguez or Maple Syrup & Black Pepper. It is a simple base with endless possibilities.

The idea is simply to prepare a base with a protein and vegetables, then vary the starch, sauce or way you serve the meal. With just a few small changes, you get meals that each have their own personality—without starting from scratch every evening.

Another benefit: it is a great way to use vegetables that are starting to soften in the fridge. Broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, mushrooms, asparagus, sweet potatoes... almost anything can be added to the sheet pan! Feel free to play with spices and season according to the ingredients you choose. It is a flexible method that easily adapts to what you already have on hand, helping to reduce food waste.

This is your reminder that meal prep does not have to be complicated. One well-planned base can save you time, cut down on dishes and give you several varied meals throughout the week. It is a simple little tip that can make all the difference during busy weeks.

Laurence Bergeron, B.Sc. Nutrition -
@libredemanger