Veterans Day presents an opportunity to honor those who have served our country. Preparing special meals can be a thoughtful way to show appreciation for veterans and active duty service members. Meal prepping allows busy families to create delicious dishes in advance while still taking time to reflect on the significance of this holiday.
These 10 meal prep ideas offer nutritious and tasty options to celebrate Veterans Day. From hearty breakfasts to patriotic desserts, these recipes provide convenient ways to feed family and friends. The selections incorporate red, white, and blue ingredients as well as classic American flavors that pay tribute to our nation’s heroes.
1) Grilled Herb Chicken Breast
Grilled herb chicken breast is a versatile and flavorful meal prep option for Veterans Day. This dish combines lean protein with aromatic herbs for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
To prepare, marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Allow the chicken to absorb the flavors for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Portion the grilled chicken into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Pair the grilled herb chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal. This dish can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it ideal for various serving situations.
2) Quinoa Salad with Mixed Vegetables
Quinoa salad with mixed vegetables is an excellent choice for Veterans Day meal prep. This nutritious dish combines protein-rich quinoa with a variety of colorful vegetables, creating a balanced and flavorful meal.
To prepare, cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. Chop an assortment of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
Mix the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables in a large bowl. Add some protein by including chickpeas or diced grilled chicken. For extra flavor, toss in some crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Quinoa salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a wholesome option for veterans and their families.
3) Roasted Turkey Breast and Cranberry Sauce
Roasted turkey breast with cranberry sauce is a classic dish perfect for Veterans Day meal prep. This combination offers a flavorful and festive option that can be prepared in advance.
To roast the turkey breast, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Season the meat with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage, along with salt and pepper. Place it in a baking dish and cook for about 20 minutes per pound for bone-in or 15 minutes per pound for boneless turkey.
While the turkey roasts, prepare the cranberry sauce. Combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a saucepan. Simmer the mixture until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
Once the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest before slicing. Serve the roasted turkey breast with the homemade cranberry sauce on the side.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated on Veterans Day. It pairs well with various side dishes and offers a satisfying meal for veterans and their families.
4) Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots make an excellent meal prep option for Veterans Day. These sweet and savory vegetables are easy to prepare in advance and reheat well.
To make honey glazed carrots, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and slice carrots diagonally into 1-inch pieces. For larger carrots, cut them in half lengthwise as well.
Toss the carrots with a mixture of honey, melted butter, olive oil, and garlic. Season with salt and any preferred spices like cinnamon or garlic powder. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast the carrots for 20 minutes, then flip them over. Continue roasting for another 15-25 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized at the edges.
For stovetop preparation, simmer carrots in a covered pan with water for 3 minutes. Uncover and cook until water evaporates. Add butter, brown sugar, and honey, stirring to coat the carrots.
Once cooled, portion the honey glazed carrots into meal prep containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated when ready to serve.
5) Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
Stuffed bell peppers make an excellent meal prep option for Veterans Day. This dish combines flavorful ground beef, rice, and vegetables in a colorful bell pepper shell.
To prepare, cooks start by softening bell peppers in the oven for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, they sauté onions, garlic, and ground beef in a skillet.
The meat mixture is then combined with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Some recipes incorporate spinach for added nutrition.
Once the filling is ready, it’s spooned into the partially cooked bell peppers. The stuffed peppers are then baked for 30-35 minutes, depending on the pepper color and desired tenderness.
For a cheesy twist, some cooks add a layer of melted cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. This dish can be easily portioned and refrigerated for later consumption.
Meal preppers can customize the recipe by using different ground meats or plant-based alternatives. The versatility of stuffed peppers makes them a practical and tasty choice for Veterans Day meal planning.
6) Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for Veterans Day meal prep. This classic recipe can be prepared in advance, saving time on the day of celebration.
To make garlic mashed potatoes, one starts by peeling and quartering Yukon gold potatoes. These are then boiled in a large pot of water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
While the potatoes cook, garlic can be toasted in a small pan with butter and olive oil to enhance its flavor. Once the potatoes are done, they are drained and placed in a mixing bowl.
The cooked potatoes are mashed using a potato masher or ricer. Cream cheese, sour cream, and the toasted garlic are added for richness and flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder can be included for extra depth.
Salt and pepper are mixed in to taste. The potatoes are then beaten with a mixer until creamy and smooth. For make-ahead convenience, the prepared mashed potatoes can be stored in a baking dish.
To reheat, the dish is covered with foil and baked for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, the potatoes can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
7) Classic Pumpkin Pie
Classic pumpkin pie is a quintessential dessert for Veterans Day celebrations. This beloved American treat combines a flaky crust with a smooth, spiced pumpkin filling.
To make the pie, bakers typically use canned pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves give the pie its characteristic flavor.
The filling is whisked together until smooth, then poured into a pre-baked pie crust. The pie is baked at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes, until the center is set but still jiggly.
A perfectly baked pumpkin pie should have a slightly domed surface and a rich, golden-brown color. The filling will be creamy and custard-like, with a balance of sweetness and spice.
Serving pumpkin pie with a dollop of whipped cream is a popular choice. Some people prefer to enjoy it at room temperature, while others like it chilled.
This timeless dessert is not only delicious but also easy to prepare in advance, making it an ideal choice for Veterans Day meal prep.
8) Lemon Garlic Asparagus
Lemon garlic asparagus is a simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for meal prepping. This versatile vegetable pairs well with various proteins and can be prepared quickly.
To make lemon garlic asparagus, start by washing and trimming the woody ends of the asparagus spears. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for roasting.
Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Mince fresh garlic and sprinkle it over the asparagus. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Roast the asparagus for about 10-12 minutes, depending on thickness. The spears should be tender but still crisp. Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
For meal prep, divide the cooked asparagus into portions and store in airtight containers. This dish can be enjoyed cold or reheated throughout the week. It makes an excellent addition to salads, grain bowls, or as a side for grilled meats.
9) Deviled Eggs with Paprika
Deviled eggs with paprika are a classic appetizer perfect for meal prepping ahead of Veterans Day celebrations. These bite-sized treats offer a protein-rich option that can be prepared in advance.
To make deviled eggs, start by hard-boiling eggs and carefully removing the yolks. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and salt to create a creamy filling.
Pipe or spoon the filling back into the egg white halves. Sprinkle paprika over the top for a pop of color and subtle smoky flavor. This garnish enhances both the appearance and taste of the deviled eggs.
Deviled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them an ideal make-ahead dish. Place them in a single layer on a covered platter to maintain their shape and freshness.
For added flavor variations, consider incorporating finely chopped herbs, crispy bacon bits, or a dash of hot sauce into the filling. These additions can create unique taste profiles while maintaining the classic deviled egg foundation.
10) Apple Cider Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Apple cider glazed Brussels sprouts offer a delicious twist on a classic vegetable side dish. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider.
To prepare, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Roast them in a preheated 400°F oven until they become crispy and caramelized on the outside.
While the sprouts roast, prepare the glaze. Combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, and mustard in a saucepan. Simmer until the mixture reduces and thickens slightly.
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, toss them with the warm apple cider glaze. The result is a perfect balance of flavors – the sweetness of the cider complements the slight bitterness of the sprouts.
This dish can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for meal prep. Simply roast the Brussels sprouts and make the glaze ahead of time. Reheat and combine just before serving.
Apple cider glazed Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for Veterans Day meals. They pair well with roasted meats and add a touch of autumn to any plate.
Meal Prep Benefits for Veterans Day
Meal prepping offers significant advantages for veterans and their families on Veterans Day. It streamlines the cooking process, reduces expenses, and promotes balanced nutrition.
Time Efficiency
Meal prepping saves valuable time on Veterans Day. Veterans can spend more moments with loved ones or attend commemorative events instead of cooking. Preparing meals in advance eliminates daily kitchen tasks and cleanup.
Batch cooking allows veterans to make multiple servings at once. They can portion and store meals for quick reheating throughout the week. This approach minimizes time spent in the kitchen each day.
Pre-chopped vegetables and pre-cooked proteins speed up meal assembly. Veterans can quickly grab prepared ingredients to create nutritious dishes with minimal effort.
Cost Savings
Meal prepping helps veterans reduce food expenses. Buying ingredients in bulk for multiple meals often costs less than purchasing individual items daily. This strategy allows veterans to stretch their food budget further.
Planning meals in advance prevents impulse purchases and reduces food waste. Veterans can create shopping lists based on their meal prep plan, ensuring they buy only necessary items.
Cooking at home is generally more cost-effective than dining out. By prepping meals, veterans avoid the higher prices associated with restaurant meals or takeout options.
Nutritional Balance
Meal prepping enables veterans to maintain a balanced diet. They can plan nutrient-rich meals that include a variety of proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. This approach ensures they consume essential vitamins and minerals throughout the week.
Portion control becomes easier with pre-prepared meals. Veterans can divide servings into appropriate sizes, helping them manage calorie intake and maintain healthy eating habits.
Pre-made meals reduce the temptation to choose less nutritious options when pressed for time. Veterans have ready access to wholesome, home-cooked food, supporting their overall health and well-being.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Selecting appropriate ingredients is crucial for successful Veterans Day meal prep. Quality components form the foundation of nutritious and satisfying dishes while keeping costs manageable.
Sourcing Local Produce
Local farmers’ markets offer fresh, seasonal produce at competitive prices. Buying directly from growers supports local economies and ensures peak flavor and nutrition. Many markets accept SNAP benefits, making fresh fruits and vegetables more accessible.
Seasonal vegetables like squash, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts are often plentiful and affordable in November. These versatile ingredients work well in soups, roasted vegetable medleys, and casseroles.
Community
Storing and Preserving Meals
Proper storage and preservation techniques are crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of meal prepped dishes. Using effective packaging methods and following recommended freezing and refrigeration guidelines can help extend the shelf life of prepared meals.
Effective Packaging Techniques
Airtight containers are essential for storing meal prep dishes. Glass containers with snap-on lids work well for refrigerated items, while plastic containers are suitable for freezer storage. Vacuum sealing is an excellent option for longer-term preservation, as it removes air and prevents freezer burn.
For individual portions, use divided containers to keep foods separate. This prevents flavors from mixing and maintains textures. When packaging soups or stews, leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label containers with the dish name and preparation date. This helps track freshness and ensures timely consumption.
Freezing and Refrigeration Tips
Refrigerated meals typically last 3-5 days. Store them at 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth. Place raw meats on the bottom shelf to avoid cross-contamination.
For freezer storage, cool meals completely before freezing. This prevents ice crystals from forming and maintains food quality. Most frozen meals can be stored for 2-3 months at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
When freezing, lay flat plastic bags of soups or sauces for easy stacking and quicker thawing. For casseroles or baked dishes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thaw frozen meals in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Avoid refreezing thawed foods to maintain food safety and quality.