We’ve made it to the final week of August. It’s hard to believe that September will be here in one week, which means we’re two-thirds through 2019!
As summer is wrapping up and we begin to enter into fall, now is a great time to really dial in our nutrition. For many, summer is filled with fun times spent with family and friends and travel. I often remind clients that maintaining over the summer is a big win in itself. 🙌☀️
However, now that beach trips, pool days and BBQs are winding down, getting stricter with your nutrition will set you up for success as the trifecta of holidays approach. Halloween + Thanksgiving + Christmas are not far off. With them come sweets, treats and all the eats. 🍫🥧🍪
September is the perfect time to pause, focus and reassess your goals. ✋
If you’ve fallen off track with your eating [and drinking!], don’t stress. You cannot change what has happened, but you are in control of your choices going forward. Take the reigns now and establish a few goals for yourself before the holidays are here.
One goal I highly recommend is meal planning. Whether you’re macro counting or not, simply scheduling out your dinners for the week can reduce stress on weeknights, prevent you from defaulting to take out, save you money and ultimately help you make healthier choices.
Spending a little time on the weekend to choose each night’s meal is worth it. Taking into account upcoming events, activities, commitments, as well as taste preferences in advance will help you create a plan that works for your family. Plus, if you are counting your macros, you can pre-log your dinner and work backward with the macros you have left for the day, which will help you be successful!
This week’s dinner menu is below:
Monday — Naptime Kitchen’s Orzo + Chicken
Tuesday — Turkey Tacos
Who doesn’t love Taco Tuesday? We switch up the protein each week. I typically use 93/7 lean ground turkey. Sometimes I will use 99/1. We LOVE Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning Mix. I’m not a huge spicy person, but this seasoning has some kick and the best flavor! You can use flour, corn or lettuce wraps and add the toppings of your choice!
Wednesday — Tomato Spinach Tortellini Soup
I will add chicken to increase the protein. I’ll serve it with garlic bread for my husband and son.
Thursday — Asian Peanut Noodles with Chicken
We’ve had a very similar version in the past and it was SO tasty!
Friday — Leftovers
We typically have several meals left in the fridge by Friday, so it’s typically a “fend for yourself” kind of night.
Saturday — Whole 30 Meatballs + Sauce + Salad
I’ve made this recipe numerous times. The meatballs are delish solo and easily make a great snack. I’ll serve this on spaghetti for my husband and son.
Easy hack — make a double batch and freeze some for later. Work smarter, not harder! 😉
Sunday — Skinnytaste’s Chicken Parm + Veggies
This is a tried and true favorite! We’ve had it many times and it’s always a hit!
Meal planning does not need to be elaborate or overwhelming. Each week I share my weekly dinner menu with my individual and group macro coaching clients. If you are interested in learning more about coaching, please feel free to contact me!
Have a favorite recipe? Drop it in the comments below! 👇
Chiseled by Chelsea 