A Dietitian Shares Tips for Healthy Cooking for 1

When most healthy recipes seem to be written for a family of four, cooking for one can feel like a challenge.

In this video, Aubrey Phelps, R.D.N., suggests that, if you live on your own, it can be helpful to stock up on ingredients that can be used in multiple ways.

For example, make a big salad using kale or cabbage instead of lettuce, Phelps suggests. Lettuce gets soggy, but kale and cabbage can hold up for several days in the fridge. Your salad can then be used for lunches, for a side at dinner, or even as entrees. Pair your greens with different proteins, and you'll get a variation at each meal.

Consider doing more batch cooking. This means preparing larger amounts of things all at once, so you're not spending time cooking and cleaning every day. You can get pre-cut or frozen mixed veggies and roast them. Reheat them or eat them cold throughout the week.

Pick a couple of proteins and prepare enough for several meals to mix and match with your salads or roasted veggies.

Also, choose healthy ingredients that will last a long time instead of foods that you'll need to use up right away. Eggs, canned fish, frozen or canned fruits and veggies, canned beans and lentils, are all great options because they won't go bad quickly. You’ll avoid wasting money and resources.

If you don’t live alone and you find yourself cooking healthy meals just for yourself, know that healthy dietary changes can be good for the whole family. You may want to sit down and have a conversation with a spouse or loved one about how to find some middle ground. Enjoying healthy meals together can help set you up for long-term success and be good for everyone's well‑being.