The team here at 99th Monkey knows that life can get hectic. Whether you’re gearing up for a day of conquering deadlines at the office or embarking on an exciting outdoor adventure, one thing remains constant: the need for delicious, nourishing fuel to keep you swinging through your day with energy and focus.
Forget those sad desk lunches or relying on questionable roadside snacks. Today, we're all about empowering you with a simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying meal prep idea that ticks all the boxes: healthy, balanced, easy to assemble, and bursting with flavour. Get ready to embrace the joy of a well-packed meal that will make your taste buds sing and your body feel fantastic!
This isn't about complicated recipes or hours spent in the kitchen. We're talking about utilising what you likely already have on hand and combining them in a way that's both practical and exciting. Our star players for this winning meal prep lineup? A vibrant, customisable salad, your protein powerhouse of choice, a refreshing medley of fresh fruit, and – the pièce de résistance – a sandwich featuring the surprisingly sublime pairing of our 99th Monkey almond butter and luscious fig jam!
Yes, you heard that right. Almond butter and fig jam. If you haven't experienced this flavour combination yet, prepare for a revelation. It might sound a little unconventional, but trust us, it's a match made in culinary heaven. The creamy, nutty depth of our almond butter (whether you prefer the smooth embrace or the satisfying crunch – the choice is yours) perfectly complements the sweet, slightly earthy, and wonderfully textured fig jam.
Think about it: the rich, savoury notes of the almonds provide a grounding base, while the fig jam bursts with a unique sweetness that's not overly sugary. The tiny seeds in the fig jam add a delightful textural contrast to the smooth (or crunchy) almond butter, creating a symphony of sensations with every bite. It’s a sophisticated yet comforting flavour profile that will have you looking forward to lunchtime all morning.
But this meal prep isn't just about a delicious sandwich. It's about creating a balanced and nourishing meal that will fuel your body and mind throughout the day. Let's break down each component:
The Customisable Power Salad: The beauty of a salad lies in its versatility. Open your fridge and let your creativity flow! Got some crisp lettuce? Toss it in. A few stray carrots looking for a purpose? Chop 'em up! Half a cucumber lingering in the crisper? Slice it thinly! Bell peppers, tomatoes, spinach, kale – the possibilities are endless. Load up on those colourful veggies to get a fantastic dose of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. This will keep you feeling full, energised, and your body will thank you for the nutrient boost.
Your Protein Punch: Protein is essential for satiety, muscle repair, and overall energy levels. Choose your favourite source to add to your salad. Got some leftover grilled chicken? Perfect! A can of tuna or chickpeas? Excellent! Tofu or edamame? Fantastic plant-based options! Hard-boiled eggs are also a super convenient and protein-packed addition. Aim for a good serving to keep you feeling satisfied and focused throughout your day.
The Fresh Fruit Fiesta: Don't underestimate the power of fresh fruit! Berries are packed with antioxidants, apples offer a satisfying crunch and fibre, bananas provide a great source of potassium, and the list goes on. Pack a variety of your favourite seasonal fruits to enjoy as a refreshing side or a mid-morning/afternoon snack. They’re naturally sweet, hydrating, and provide a wonderful burst of vitamins and natural energy.
The Star Sandwich: Almond Butter & Fig Jam Magic: And now, for the grand finale – the sandwich featuring our incredible 99th Monkey almond butter and luscious fig jam. Whether you opt for the smooth, velvety texture or the satisfying crunch of our almond butter, you're in for a treat. Spread a generous layer on your favourite bread (wholemeal or sourdough are great options for added fibre and flavour). Then, slather on a layer of that sweet, slightly textured fig jam. The combination is truly divine – the nutty richness of the almond butter dancing harmoniously with the unique sweetness of the figs. It’s a sophisticated twist on a classic sandwich that’s both comforting and exciting.
Putting It All Together: Your Deliciously Simple Meal Prep Strategy
The key to successful meal prep is simplicity and efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Assess Your Fridge Inventory: Take a look at the salad greens and veggies you have on hand. Wash and chop them as needed.
- Prep Your Protein: Cook your protein of choice (if needed) and portion it out. For ready-to-eat options like tuna or chickpeas, simply drain and rinse.
- Wash and Portion Fruit: Wash your chosen fruits and slice any larger ones for easy snacking.
- Assemble Your Sandwich: Spread our 99th Monkey almond butter and fig jam on your bread of choice. You can either assemble the whole sandwich or pack the bread and spreads separately.
- Pack It Up: Use airtight containers to keep each component fresh. A larger container for the salad, a smaller one for your protein, a separate container or reusable bag for your fruit, and your sandwich wrapped or in its own container. Consider packing your salad dressing separately to prevent wilting.
- Grab and Go! Store your meal prep in the refrigerator and grab it on your way out the door.
Why This Meal Prep Wins:
- Quick and Easy: Minimal cooking and assembly required.
- Balanced Nutrition: Covers your essential macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, fibre).
- Customisable: Use what you have on hand and tailor it to your dietary preferences and taste.
- Delicious and Satisfying: No more boring lunches! The combination of flavours and textures will keep you looking forward to mealtime.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Say goodbye to processed snacks and unhealthy takeout options.
- Portable and Convenient: Perfect for work, school, picnics, or any day out.
At 99th Monkey, we believe that eating well shouldn't be a chore. It should be an enjoyable part of your day that fuels your adventures, big or small. This simple meal prep idea is a testament to that philosophy – delicious, easy, and packed with goodness to keep you swinging through life with energy and a smile.
So, ditch the lunchtime dilemmas and embrace the power of a well-prepped meal. Grab your containers, raid your fridge, and get ready to experience the delightful harmony of our almond butter and fig jam alongside a vibrant salad and refreshing fruit. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you!
What are your go-to meal prep ingredients? We’d love to hear your tips and tricks! And if you try our almond butter and fig jam sandwich, be sure to share your reaction – we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this incredible pairing! Happy prepping and happy eating!
