It IS possible: How to cook QUICK, healthy meals without spending a fortune

As busy mums with a million things to do every day (we exaggerate you not), we are all too familiar with the phrase ‘time poor’.

And in our best efforts to serve up a nutritious and well-balanced meal for our families, we are often left wondering how on earth we can find the time and money (because we all know how expensive kids are )to serve up something healthy.

In fact, new research by Uncle Ben’s has revealed that one in five Irish people prepare and cook a healthy, balanced meal just ONCE a week – and that's something they want to change. 

Fun at the launch of @UncleBensIRE 'Healthy Meals Made Easy'  pic.twitter.com/2NrhHUsGr4

— Edelman Ireland (@edelmanireland) 11 April 2017

Working on the Uncle Ben's campaign alongside Chef Adrian is nutritional therapist Elsa Jones, who, in an interview with MagicMum, shared her top tips to help mums save time and money, AND dish up good, healthy meals.

Acknowledging that many of us think that eating well involves both a lot of time and money, Elsa says it's just not true, and that's just a misconception. 

“People think there is a lot of chopping involved, but I can make healthy meals in under 20 minutes," she explained.

"Don't be afraid of shortcuts; it’s OK to use pre-packed frozen peas, for instance.”

But that’s not the only piece of advice the nutritionist has to share:

1. You don’t have to cook from scratch all the time

Minimally processed foods are OK; just remember to look at the ingredients (the shorter the list the better). Do try to avoid processed meals, however, as these contain a lot of added sugar, salt and additives.

2. Frozen veg is your saviour

Frozen veg is a great way to save on food waste, as fresh food can go off fairly quickly. Things like peas, corn and carrots are perfect freezer staples.

3. Don’t forget about the beans and lentils

Beans and lentils are, according to Elsa, totally under-used, despite the fact that they are extremely nutritious. They are great way to fill up a meal, last a long time, and are cheap to buy – perfect.

4. Opt for two veggie meals a week

By opting for two vegetarian meals a week you’ll instantly cut down on your food spend, but, by including your beans etc., you won't have to sacrifice on nutrition.

5. Meal plan

This is one of the most effective ways to help save both time and money. One day each week, sit down with your pad and pen and jot down what meals you plan on cooking for the next seven days. And the best thing? You won’t have to think what to cook that evening; it’ll all be written down. As Elsa would say: “Set yourself up for success!”

6. Write a shopping list

Never go into a shop without a list. This will stop you throwing unnecessary items into your trolley (bottle of wine, we’re looking at you), and help you stay within your budget.  

7. Get the balance right

When it comes to dinners, make sure you are getting the balance right: ¼ protein, ¼ carbs and ½ vegetables – and you don't miss any essentials. 

"Making a few small and simple adjustments to your routine can make it a lot easier for you to prepare healthy meals that’ll help you look and feel your best," explained Elsa.

"As the saying goes ‘If you fail to plan, you plan to fail’."

With Uncle Ben’s you can make a healthier plate in minutes. For more great recipe inspiration and useful tips, visit Uncle Ben’s Facebook community,www.facebook.com/unclebensireland.