3 No-stress meal ideas

Healthy flat bread pizza with melted mozzarella, tomatoes, spinach and artichokes, above view on wooden paddle board In all the rush of getting ready for baby’s arrival, are you taking care of you? A simple way to take care of yourself is to eat a balanced meal. Providing your body with the foods and nutrients it needs will:

help you feel energized
nourish your body
help you make a healthy baby

Preparing a balanced meal doesn’t have to be hard. It doesn’t have to mean cooking over a hot stove, or take hours and hours to make. It can be as easy as putting a few simple ingredients together.

Aim for Balance

What makes a balanced meal?

Try including a variety of foods from Canada’s Food Guide. Choose from Vegetables and Fruits, Whole Grains, and Protein Foods. The combinations are endless!

Choose ingredients that are already ready for you to use. Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are great time-savers, have just as many nutrients as fresh produce, and take the work out of meal prep.

Here are 3 no-stress meal ideas to try:

Bean salads – Get a colourful punch of vitamins, minerals, protein and fibre by mixing beans, cheese, and vegetables together. Top it off with a simple, homemade dressing to add flavour and healthy fats to your meal.

Try this combo: black beans, tomato, green pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese with a squeeze of lime and a drizzle of olive oil.

Wraps – Start by adding your favourite protein (for example: canned salmon, eggs, chicken) to a whole wheat or whole grain tortilla. Add vegetables and fruits, and wrap it up! You have a protein-rich, satisfying meal to keep you going.

Try this combo: canned salmon, mango, and red bell peppers in a whole wheat wrap.

Flatbread pizza – What’s more delicious than a fresh pizza? Make your own with your favourite flatbread (for example: naan, pita, tortilla) and layer it with vegetables and fruits, and a sprinkle of cheese or nuts. Heat the pizza in a toaster oven or a microwave and you’re done!

Try this combo: peaches, arugula, basil and mozzarella cheese on naan.

What are some easy meals you like to prepare? Comment below!

Have more questions about meal preparation? Speak to a dietitian by calling Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. For other pregnancy-related questions, talk with a Public Health Nurse on eChat or call (416) 338-7600.