When juggling a hectic schedule that may consist of school, work, and a social life, many of us struggle in finding ways to create healthful meals that are easy to prepare. When on a budget, finding those foods can be even more difficult. So, what can you do?

In honor of National Frozen Food Month this March, here are some reasons as to why choosing frozen foods may work best for you!

  • Frozen Foods are Economical

Living in a state that has such a short growing season means that during winter, we see prices rise on fresh produce. Frozen fruits and vegetables can be found generally under $3 a bag and can be kept until needed. Because frozen foods can also be kept longer, you can avoid spoilage and wasting more money.

  • Frozen Foods are Quick to Prepare

Many of us struggle to find time to prepare healthy meals in a hurry. Frozen fruits and vegetables are already prewashed and trimmed making them easy to throw in a smoothie or heated for a meal. Frozen meat can be found already cleaned and individually packaged making them easy to create meals for one.

  • Frozen Foods Allow for Healthy Options

The best thing about frozen foods is the ease of portioning. Because most come in a bag and have portion sizes labeled, they can be measured and planned out. Like fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen ones have nothing added to them. This makes them a healthy alternative when fresh produce is not as readily available.

  • Frozen Foods Provide Variety

Unlike fresh produce and meat, frozen options do not spoil as quickly. Most frozen food can be kept for 6-9 months in the freezer. This allows you to buy many different types of fruits and vegetables to keep dinners interesting and full of variety. An added bonus is you don’t have to worry about them all going bad at the same time.

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Easy Weeknight Stir Fry for One

1 Tbsp Olive Oil

3-4 oz Frozen Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast

2/3 C Mixed Frozen Vegetables (Corn, Carrots, Peas)

1/2 C Frozen Broccoli

1/2 C Frozen Snap Peas

1-2 Tbsp Stir Fry Sauce (Your Favorite Brand)

  1. Warm olive oil in a pan on medium hot.
  2. Add chicken to pan and cook until pink is almost gone.
  3. Add vegetables to pan and cook until bright colored and sauce.
  4. Add stir fry sauce and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165º.
  5. Remove from heat and enjoy!

Calories: 357      Fat: 3.25g       Protein: 27g       Carbohydrates: 24g       Cost: $1.66/serving

Written by: Emily Oschmann, Mount Mary Dietetics Intern