The holiday season is joyful, delicious, and famously busy.
If you juggle meetings, travel, and family time, the kitchen can feel like another full-time job.
Thoughtful meal prep turns the rush into a gentle rhythm.
With a few practical habits, you can eat well, host confidently, and still have evenings free for the people and moments that matter.
Begin with a simple plan you can actually follow. Choose a guiding theme for the week, like cozy classics or bright Mediterranean flavors, and build a small roster of dishes that share ingredients. This reduces both spending and mental load. Block two focused prep windows in your calendar, ideally one on the weekend and one midweek. Treat them as important appointments and protect them like you would a client call.
