10 Easy Sustainable Meal Prep Recipes

Sep 29, 2025

Introduction

Meal prepping saves time, reduces food waste, and helps you stick to healthier eating habits. These 10 recipes are built with sustainable, budget-friendly ingredients like whole grains, seasonal vegetables, and lean proteins — designed for variety and balance.


1. Grilled Chicken & Farro Salad

Description: A hearty but light dish combining protein-packed chicken with nutty farro and crisp veggies. Perfect for meal-prep lunches.

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts

  • 1 cup farro

  • 1 cucumber, sliced

  • 2 cups spinach

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Lemon juice, salt, pepper

2. Chickpea & Spinach Wraps

Description: A simple vegetarian wrap with mashed chickpeas, tahini, and greens — high in fiber and protein.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can chickpeas (rinsed & mashed)

  • 2 cups spinach

  • 1 tbsp tahini

  • 4 whole grain tortillas

  • ½ tsp cumin, pinch of salt

3. Baked Salmon with Sweet Potato Mash

Description: Rich in omega-3s, this salmon dish pairs well with creamy sweet potato and roasted broccoli.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes

  • 1 cup broccoli florets

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Garlic powder, paprika

4. Quinoa & Black Bean Bowl

Description: A satisfying, plant-based bowl full of protein, healthy fats, and fresh flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa

  • 1 can black beans

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • Fresh cilantro

5. Eggplant & Tomato Pasta

Description: Mediterranean-inspired pasta with roasted eggplant, ripe tomatoes, and garlic for a light but filling meal.

Ingredients:

  • 200g whole wheat pasta

  • 1 medium eggplant, cubed

  • 2 tomatoes, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Basil leaves

6. Turkey & Zucchini Meatballs with Brown Rice

Description: Juicy turkey meatballs blended with zucchini for added moisture and nutrients, served with rice.

Ingredients:

  • 500g lean ground turkey

  • 1 zucchini, grated

  • 1 egg

  • ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice

7. Tofu & Veggie Stir-Fry

Description: A quick, colorful stir-fry with tofu and mixed veggies for a plant-based protein boost.

Ingredients:

  • 250g firm tofu, cubed

  • 1 cup broccoli florets

  • 1 red bell pepper

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

8. Mushroom & Barley Soup

Description: A hearty, earthy soup made with mushrooms and barley, perfect for big batch cooking.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pearl barley

  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 4 cups vegetable broth

  • Thyme, pepper

9. Greek Yogurt & Berry Overnight Oats

Description: A high-protein breakfast or snack you can prepare the night before for convenience.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt

  • ½ cup mixed berries

  • 1 tbsp chia seeds

  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)

10. Shrimp & Vegetable Rice Bowls

Description: A light, flavorful dish with sautéed shrimp, rice, and colorful vegetables for a balanced prep.

Ingredients:

  • 250g shrimp, peeled

  • 1 cup cooked brown rice

  • 1 zucchini, sliced

  • 1 cup snap peas

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Soy sauce or seasoning of choice

Conclusion

These 10 sustainable meal prep recipes give you a variety of flavors and nutrients while staying practical, eco-conscious, and waste-free. With a mix of plant-based and lean protein meals, you’ll have a balanced menu that supports both your body and the planet.