How I Finally Stuck to My Meal Plan (Most of the Time 😉)
Hi friends — it’s Chef E! I used to love planning meals but never actually made them. I'd fill my cart with good intentions, feel like a total kitchen rockstar on Monday, and then by Wednesday… me and DoorDash were making eyes at each other. Sound familiar? It wasn’t the plan that failed — it was how I approached the whole rhythm of the week. So I made a few small shifts that changed everything. And now? I actually stick to my weekly meal plan (like 90% of the time — we still love a Friday pizza).
Here’s what helped me most, and how New Leaf Table makes it all feel do-able, joyful, and really delicious:
1. Never Cook on Grocery Day
After grocery shopping, I used to crash and burn. Now I plan no-cook meals on that day — think leftovers, snack boards, or prepped soups from the freezer. Total game-changer.
2. Prep as You Put Away
When you come home from the store, don’t just toss things in the fridge. Wash the greens, trim the carrots, chop a few things now — Future You will love you for it.
3. Make It Easy on Weeknights
I keep my cook nights to 3–4 max. The rest? Leftovers, one-pan wonders, or intentional “break nights” (takeout, date night, or even cereal if that’s the vibe).
4. Cook Earlier in the Day
Especially in fall and winter, I start dinner prep around 4 PM. That golden hour light gives me energy — and casseroles, soups, and skillets reheat beautifully.
5. Put the Plan Where You’ll See It
Stick that meal plan on your fridge, your phone, your mirror — whatever works. New Leaf Table members even get a grocery list every week. 😍
At New Leaf Table, we’re all about helping you cook healthy meals without the stress. We give you:
- 4 brand-new recipes every week
- Pre-organized grocery lists
- Full-length how-to videos
- Ingredient links and flexible swaps
- And a cozy community of one-pan people who get it.
You’ve got this. Let’s make dinner the best part of your day — and not a last-minute mystery.
💛
Chef E
© 2024 New Leaf Table