How to keep a well stocked freezer

One of my top tips for clients who want to start cooking healthier and eating more at home instead of getting take out is to keep a well stocked freezer. 

It’s also a big part of meal planning, and setting yourself up for success in the kitchen. Not only will you be able to grab what you need to make a meal quickly after a busy day, but you'll also have the ability to stock up on foods while they're in season at their peak. 

Frozen foods can sometimes be looked down upon as unhealthy, but nutritionally, frozen produce is actually still nutrient-dense. These items are often frozen at the height of freshness, which also means it's frozen at the peak of flavor.  

Having a well stocked freezer can help you put healthy meals on the table without spending hours in the kitchen, and if you make some pre-planned decisions, it'll take your efforts even further. 

Here are some staples I always like to have stocked in my freezer:

 
How to keep a well stocked freezer
 

Fruits & Vegetables

Keeping an assortment of appealing fruits and vegetables on hand makes us much more likely to incorporate them into our meals. Whether it is a fruit smoothie for breakfast or a simple side of steamed vegetables for dinner, having a freezer stash will come in handy. This allows you to keep produce on hand that's out of season so you can still enjoy your favorites year-round.

Here’s a few that I always have:

  • Bananas- I cut them up and freeze them when they turn too ripe to eat so I always have extras for smoothies

  • Blueberries- they freeze well and are so handy for snacks, breakfast toppings or smoothies

  • Avocado- I love to toss into my smoothies for extra creaminess, and can’t rely on a ripe one when needed, so I do buy bag of frozen avocado to have on hand

  • Mango- since I’m in Canada, and mangos are never ‘in season’ here, i always have a bag to toss some into a smoothie

  • Squash- they freeze really well and when chopped into cubes, it’s easy to pull out for soup or to roast.

  • Broccoli- also freezes really well and can be steamed, roasted, soup you name it. 


Meal in a Pinch

I always keep a "meal in a pinch" option on hand. These are lifesavers on those days when your day goes longer than planned, or you don’t feel like putting in much effort to cook  dinner. 

Getting organized in advance will be key here. When you are already cooking, you can make a double batch and put half in the freezer. Or if you have a meal prep day on Sunday, plan an extra meal that you will keep as a back up for when you need it. 

The idea with all of these is to just pull them out of the freezer and cook them. So not too much prep time. Pop the food in the oven, throw a salad together and dinner is done! 

Some ideas for frozen meals:

  • Simple bag of frozen veggies and a healthy protein option 

  • Homemade lasagna

  • Enchiladas- this is a favorite at my house!

  • Curry- this freezes well, and so I often will make a big batch, and purposely portion some out to freeze for another day

  • Healthy Cottage Pie

 Just knowing you have a backup meal on hand will ease so much stress.


Freezer Bag Meals

Keeping 2-3 freezer bag meals on hand can help alleviate meal prep stress, as well. These are ingredients you've portioned into a freezer bag for your slow cooker so that you can dump it in and set your slow cooker to cook while you're at work. 

Some ideas for freezer bag meals:

Some other freezer tips

My favorite way to prepare for the months that fresh options aren't always abundant is to stock up while they are. If you love the cherries that are in season for such a short period of time, grab a few extra pounds to freeze for later. The same goes for stone fruit like peaches, most berries, some tropical fruits, and even things like avocado. 

You’ll save money, time and feel more prepared! So win win!

By slowly and intentionally preparing foods, stocking your freezer and getting organized for the weeks or even season ahead, you can enjoy healthy meals that are still colorful and bursting with flavor even when your fridge runs low- or your busy day at work leaves you wanting something quick and easy.