Simple Meals That Don’t Ask Too Much of You
Eating healthy shouldn’t take all your spoons. Thankfully there are tons of healthy foods that are easy to prepare and don’t require tons of utensils or cleanup. These meals aim to go with your energy limitations instead of against them.
1. Greek Yogurt Cups
Greek yogurt is ready to eat, and high in protein for its volume. You can eat it straight or add a sprinkle of fruit if you’re up for it. It fills you up without weighing you down.
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2. Pre-Sliced Cheese
Cheese slices are as effortless as food gets. Simply open the package and enjoy. They go great on crackers, bread, or even apple slices. You’ll get some calcium and protein with no knife required.
3. Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken from the grocery store can be your best friend. You can eat it warm, cold, or pull it apart to add to sandwiches and salads. One chicken can make multiple easy meals.
4. Microwavable Oatmeal
Individual packets of oatmeal only take minutes to make. Add water or milk, zap it in the microwave, and you’re ready to eat. It heats up your belly without upsetting it.
5. Canned Soup
Canned soup only requires heating up, keeping preparation effort low. Many canned soups also come packed with veggies and protein. Opt for lower sodium if salt is a concern for you.
6. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter has a long shelf life and requires no cooking. Spread it on toast, crackers, or even bananas. A little will go a long way if you don’t have much of an appetite.
7. Frozen Vegetables
Frozen vegetables have already been washed and chopped for you. You can steam them in the microwave in just a couple minutes. They add some color to your meals with minimal effort.
8. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs are as low-effort as it gets. Eat them on their own, slice on top of toast, or chop up on a salad. Keep them in your fridge for an easy snack that travels well.
9. Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is smooth, mild-flavored, and ready to eat as is. Eat it by itself or with fruit if you want something sweet. The high protein content will fill you up with not much volume.
10. Bagged Salad
Bagged salad skips the rinsing and chopping part of meal-prep. Throw on some dressing, maybe toss in a protein if you have it. You’ll still get a crunch without much effort.
11. Smoothies
Store bought or easy DIY smoothies are great when you don’t feel like chewing. They allow you to get fruits, protein, and calories in one package. Take your time and sip at your own pace.
12. Whole-Grain Toast
Toast takes minutes to make and can be topped however you like. You can add butter, jam, avocado, nut butter, whatever sounds good. It’s simple, but will leave you satisfied.
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13. Ready-to-Eat Rice Packs
Microwaveable rice packs don’t require draining or stirring. Heat them up and serve with canned beans, frozen vegetables, or leftover meat. You’ve got yourself a decent base for a minimal-effort meal.
14. Applesauce Cups
Applesauce cups are smooth, sweet, and require no prep work. They open easily and are easy to consume. This may help if you’re not hungry or if your jaw is tired.
15. Tuna Packets
Tuna pouches are convenient because they don’t require a can opener. There are tons of flavors to choose from, and you can eat them right out of the packet. Mix with a little mayo if desired.
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16. Frozen Meals
Frozen meals can be hit or miss, but many are well-balanced. You just need a microwave and a few minutes of your time. Try to find familiar flavors that remind you of home.
17. Crackers With Hummus
Pairing crackers and hummus is an easy no-cook meal. Hummus has protein and adds flavor with little effort. It’s easy to portion out and easy to consume.
18. Bananas
Bananas require no utensils and come with their own wrapper. They’re soft, filling, and easy on your digestive system. Eat one whenever you feel like it with no prep work.
19. Instant Mashed Potatoes
Instant potatoes only need you to add hot water or milk. They warm your belly without irritating it. They can be especially helpful if your jaw is tired from chewing.
20. Meal Replacement Shakes
Meal replacement shakes are convenient because they require minimal effort. Open the bottle and drink whenever you’re ready. They can come in handy if you just can’t muster up the strength to cook.
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