Planning a meal can be difficult especially when you are Cooking for one. You have to worry about food going to waste or storing the left overs. It can be stressful trying to figure out what all you need and how much you need of it.

Being in the grocery store trying to find small amounts of something can feel impossible sometimes. There are many things you can do to make cooking for one easier. Cooking for one can seem like a hassle but think of it as a way to be creative. Have fun with it by maybe trying to recreate a dish you had at a restaurant. There is no need for cooking to be a chore.

1. Plan your meals ahead of time can take a lot of stress out of trying to cook for one. It is important to plan meals that use similar ingredients. This will allow you to buy a bigger amount at the grocery store but not let it go to waste by using it for multiple recipes.

2. Over buying can be a problem when you are cooking for one. Instead of buying three or four different vegetables maybe just stick to one or two to get you through the week. There may be many things that may sound good but only grab a few and save some for the next week.

3. Frozen Fruits and vegetables are always good. You can use frozen fruits for smoothies. Smoothies can be great for if you are running behind or have an early morning you can take it to go. Smoothies can also be used as a snack or even the frozen fruit alone can be a snack. Frozen veggies can be steamed for a quick healthy side.

4. Buy single servings at the counter. Most grocery stores you go to have a seafood and meat counter. When you are getting meat it is important to get single servings. If there is no counter get single servings, you can always split the meat or seafood and freeze it by servings which will allow it to last longer.

5. Stick to meals made with single ingredients. When you are cooking you can make a serving of pasta, a serving of chicken, and a serving of veggies. This will allow you to keep track of how much you are cooking. Since you are sticking to single ingredients you want to be sure to mix up your spices and marinades so you do not lose interest.

6. Left overs and storage is very important when you are cooking for one. The first step is buying single serving containers that are freezer and microwave safe. This will allow you to store left overs for the next week. Instead of eating cafeteria food at work you can take your left overs from the night before.

Speaking of healthy and green, you have to checkout our latest blog on Grow An Indoor Spice Garden In Your Chicago Apartment!