Prime Day Food Storage Frenzy: Delicious Recipes to Prep with Your New Tupperware!
Prime Day has arrived, and amidst the deals on electronics and gadgets, don’t overlook the fantastic savings on food storage containers! Stocking up on high-quality Tupperware and other food storage solutions is a game-changer for meal prepping, reducing food waste, and organizing your kitchen. This year, take advantage of the Amazon Prime Day food storage deals to invest in containers that will last. To celebrate your smart shopping, we’ve compiled a list of delicious and easy-to-prepare recipes perfect for storing in your new containers. Get ready to cook, store, and savor!
## Why Invest in Quality Food Storage Containers?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s highlight why investing in good food storage is essential:
* **Reduced Food Waste:** Proper storage extends the shelf life of your food, preventing spoilage and saving you money.
* **Meal Prep Made Easy:** Containers allow you to prepare meals in advance, saving time and promoting healthier eating habits.
* **Organization:** Consistent containers create an organized and visually appealing kitchen.
* **Safety:** BPA-free and airtight containers keep your food safe from harmful chemicals and bacteria.
* **Portion Control:** Easily divide meals into correct portions for balanced diets.
## Choosing the Right Containers During Prime Day
Consider these factors when selecting food storage containers during Amazon Prime Day:
* **Material:** Opt for BPA-free plastic, glass, or stainless steel.
* **Airtight Seals:** Ensure the containers have secure lids to prevent leaks and maintain freshness.
* **Size and Shape:** Choose a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate different food types and portions.
* **Durability:** Look for containers that can withstand regular use and washing.
* **Stackability:** Stackable containers maximize space in your fridge and pantry.
* **Microwave and Dishwasher Safe:** Convenience is key! Make sure your containers are easy to use and clean.
Now, let’s get cooking!
## Recipe 1: Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This vibrant and nutritious quinoa salad is perfect for meal prepping. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, and it tastes great cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for lunchboxes or picnics. The roasted vegetables add a delicious depth of flavor, and the lemon-herb dressing brightens everything up.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
* 2 cups water or vegetable broth
* 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
* 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 1 red onion, chopped
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
* 1 clove garlic, minced (for dressing)
* Salt and pepper to taste (for dressing)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Quinoa:** In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
2. **Roast the Vegetables:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. **Roast:** Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
4. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. **Combine:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, parsley, and mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. **Store:** Divide the salad into your new Tupperware containers. This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, perfect for a week of lunches.
**Storage Tips:**
* Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* For best results, add the dressing just before serving if you prefer a crisper salad.
## Recipe 2: Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s easy to customize. Use your favorite vegetables and protein source, and adjust the sauce to your liking. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables and a perfect dish for meal prepping.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 inch ginger, grated
* 1 broccoli floret, chopped
* 1 carrot, sliced
* 1 bell pepper, sliced
* 1 cup snow peas
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Cooked rice, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. **Stir-Fry the Chicken:** Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. **Add the Vegetables:** Add the broccoli, carrot, and bell pepper to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the snow peas and stir-fry for another minute.
5. **Make the Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. **Combine:** Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables and stir-fry until the sauce is thickened and everything is well coated, about 1-2 minutes.
7. **Serve:** Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice.
8. **Store:** Divide the stir-fry and rice into your new Tupperware containers for easy and delicious meal prep.
**Storage Tips:**
* Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
* Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
* To prevent the rice from drying out, add a tablespoon of water when reheating.
## Recipe 3: Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are a super simple and customizable breakfast that requires no cooking. Prepare them the night before, and you’ll have a healthy and delicious breakfast waiting for you in the morning. This is perfect for busy mornings and for those who want a no-fuss breakfast option.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1 tablespoon chia seeds
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Toppings of your choice (berries, nuts, seeds, fruit, yogurt, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a jar or Tupperware container, combine the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
2. **Refrigerate:** Cover the jar or container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
3. **Add Toppings:** In the morning, give the oats a stir. If they are too thick, add a splash of milk. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
**Storage Tips:**
* Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* Prepare a batch of overnight oats on Sunday for a week of easy breakfasts.
* Experiment with different toppings to keep things interesting.
## Recipe 4: Black Bean Soup
This hearty and flavorful black bean soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and nutritious meal. It’s easy to make in large batches and freezes well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prepping.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Toppings of your choice (sour cream, avocado, cilantro, cheese, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Add Spices:** Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. **Simmer:** Pour in the vegetable broth, black beans, and diced tomatoes and green chilies. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. **Blend (Optional):** If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
5. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Serve:** Serve the soup hot, topped with your favorite toppings.
**Storage Tips:**
* Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for extra flavor.
## Recipe 5: Mason Jar Salads
Mason jar salads are a great way to prep salads in advance without them getting soggy. The key is layering the ingredients correctly, with the dressing at the bottom and the leafy greens at the top. When you’re ready to eat, just shake the jar and enjoy!
**Ingredients (per jar):**
* 2 tablespoons salad dressing of your choice
* 1/4 cup chopped vegetables (cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, etc.)
* 1/4 cup protein (grilled chicken, chickpeas, hard-boiled eggs, tofu, etc.)
* 1/4 cup grains (quinoa, brown rice, pasta, etc.)
* 2 cups leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the Ingredients:** In a wide-mouth mason jar (or similar container), layer the ingredients in the following order: dressing, chopped vegetables, protein, grains, and leafy greens. Pack the greens loosely.
2. **Seal and Store:** Seal the jar tightly and store in the refrigerator.
3. **Shake and Enjoy:** When you’re ready to eat, shake the jar to distribute the dressing and pour the salad into a bowl or eat directly from the jar.
**Storage Tips:**
* Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* Use sturdy, leafy greens like kale or romaine lettuce, which hold up better than delicate greens like spinach.
* Avoid adding ingredients that will get soggy, such as croutons or avocados, until just before serving.
## Maximizing Your Prime Day Food Storage Finds
Now that you have your new containers and some delicious recipes, here are some tips to maximize your food storage efforts:
* **Label Everything:** Label your containers with the contents and the date you prepared the food. This will help you keep track of what’s inside and ensure you eat it before it spoils.
* **Cool Food Completely:** Always cool food completely before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. This prevents condensation from forming, which can lead to spoilage.
* **Proper Portioning:** Divide your meals into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches and dinners. This also helps with portion control and prevents overeating.
* **Stack Smartly:** Stack your containers in the refrigerator and pantry to maximize space. Use clear containers so you can easily see what’s inside.
* **Regular Cleaning:** Clean your containers regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and food residue. Most containers are dishwasher safe, but it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions.
* **Don’t Overfill:** Leave some space at the top of the container when freezing liquids. Liquids expand as they freeze, and overfilling the container can cause it to crack or burst.
## Conclusion
Amazon Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your food storage game and invest in high-quality containers that will help you save money, reduce food waste, and eat healthier. With these delicious recipes and helpful storage tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a meal-prepping pro! So, get shopping, get cooking, and get organized!
Happy Prime Day, and happy cooking!