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Summer brings longer days, warmer temps, and a desire to spend more time outdoors and less time in the kitchen. But eating healthy doesn't have to be a challenge during these busy months, especially when you have these easy summer meal prep recipes. With a little bit of time and a few healthy meal prep ideas, you can enjoy nutritious, delicious meals without the stress.
Our team of dietitians and chefs have curated 9 easy summer meal prep recipes that are perfect for hot days – or any day you don’t feel like cooking. These dishes are light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. You can easily prepare these summer recipes in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to eat them. Most of these healthy recipes will stay fresh for days with proper refrigeration.
Meal prepping in the summer helps you stay on track with your health goals even when your schedule is busy. By preparing meals in advance, you can save time, reduce food waste, and ensure you have wholesome food available when you’re hungry and rushed. This is especially helpful during the summer when there are so many things you’d rather be doing instead of cooking.
Whether you're looking for make-ahead lunches, quick dinners, or grab-and-go breakfasts, these healthy meal prep ideas will keep you cool and satisfied all summer long.
This refreshing salad combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet grapes, and crunchy walnuts for a light yet satisfying bite. It’s perfect for prepping ahead and can be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. Serve it over a bed of lettuce for a light lunch or dinner. Here are more heart healthy chicken salad recipe ideas.
Loaded with beans and vibrant veggies, this protein-packed salad holds up well in the fridge for days. Bell peppers, red onion, and fresh parsley add crunch and flavor, while a zesty lemon and red wine vinegar dressing ties it all together. It's a no-cook meal plan that’s ideal for hot summer lunches or picnics.
This hearty grain salad features farro tossed with a medley of colorful bell peppers, red onion, and fresh herbs. A light lemon and olive oil dressing enhances the flavors of this nutritious, make-ahead meal that can be served cold or at room temperature. Prep once and you'll have a flavorful, fiber-rich dish that gets better tasting over time.
Topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, and red wine vinegar, this grilled chicken is a flavorful and heart-healthy recipe. It's a protein-packed chicken meal prep idea that can be served over greens for an easy summer lunch or with your favorite side for a quick and healthy chicken dinner.
This Indian-inspired dish features chicken breasts marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, then grilled to perfection. Cook a batch on the weekend to add to wraps, salads, or bowls all week long. The bold flavors make it a standout addition to your meal prep rotation.
A convenient, no-cook breakfast option, these heart healthy overnight oats combine rolled oats, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and fresh blueberries. This grab-and-go breakfast option comes together in minutes and is ready when you wake up, offering a tasty, filling, and nutritious way to start your day.
Lightly sweet and protein-rich, this healthy overnight oat recipe is as satisfying as it is simple. Prep several jars at once for a deliciously nutritious and fuss-free breakfast all week long. Overnight oats are also a great choice when you’re looking for high protein snacks.
Crisp lettuce wraps filled with savory grilled beef and creamy tahini sauce make for a refreshing meal. Prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. They’re quick to assemble on hot days when you want a light, healthy dinner.
A savory mix of mushrooms, tofu, and water chestnuts is stir-fried with ginger and garlic in these plant-based wraps. Make the filling ahead, then scoop into lettuce leaves for a chilled, satisfying meal that’s ready in seconds.
These easy summer meal prep recipes make summer dinners easier, keeping you energized and satisfied with no time in front of a hot stove. If you’re looking for more healthy meal prep ideas, be sure to check out these make-ahead meal inspiration ideas, straight from the Health eCooks test kitchen: