30 Healthy Frozen Foods That Make Your Next Meal Way Easier
Stock these entrees and other foods in your freezer for tasty, nutritious, and quick meal prep.
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Some nights are just like that, and you need to pop a freezer meal in the microwave. (We get it, we’ve been there.) And that’s OK because there are some healthy options out there. But beyond keeping some entrées on hand (we’ve included some of our favorites below), here’s another healthy hack: Pack your freezer with frozen foods that will make prepping a tasty, nutritious meal quicker, easier, and stress-free. Here are 30 to help you get started.
One thing to note: When it comes to fresh versus frozen produce, the nutritional value is often comparable as long as the produce was frozen just after it was picked, which is usually denoted on the packaging.
Think Chimichurri Chicken with roasted peppers, red potatoes and farro, aji amarillo purée, and almonds can’t be a frozen meal? Think again. For those nights when takeout sounds like a good plan, but you want something more affordable and a little less greasy, reach for this. Chicken not your thing? Try the Braised Brisket with caramelized sweet potatoes, sorghum, red rice, and pickled onions. Yum.
We won’t pretend veggie noodles are a substitute for real pasta, but they do make for a nutritious, tasty base that you can dress up with your favorite sauces. Another option: Replace half the amount of pasta for a lighter version of your favorite dish.
Evol Truffle Parmesan Portabella Risotto
You can’t go wrong with anything that has truffle and Parmesan in the name. Keep this base in your freezer and pair with your favorite side salad or add a protein.
This is not your average frozen pizza. With varieties that include basil pesto and feta, and three cheese with Kalamata olives, these organic-crust flatbreads are flavorful and make for a hearty lunch or dinner, paired with a baby green salad for extra veggies.
Rice is an excellent source of whole grains, but traditional rice can set you back 30 to 45 minutes, and that’s often time you don’t have—especially after a long run. Frozen rice is just as nutritious and ready in minutes.
Yes, frozen fruit can boost the nutritional value of any smoothie, thanks to antioxidants and fiber. But think outside the blender, and add frozen fruit to pancakes and muffins as well. (Just thaw it first!)
Evol Egg Green Chile Burrito
For a quick to-go breakfast, grab an Evol burrito, which uses real-food ingredients. If you’re not sprinting out the door, serve this burrito with a side of homemade home fries and a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Pro tip: Try to avoid veggie blends that include sauces, which are often high in sugar. Instead, opt for a veggie and carb combo side dish like this, which is ready in just minutes.
Some people swear that frozen peas taste better than fresh peas. We won’t take sides, but we will say they’re good for more than just icing achy legs. Frozen peas thaw quickly and can be added to anything: a scramble, a stir-fry, a beef stew, or a risotto.
Muffins are calorie and sugar bombs—sorry. But that doesn’t mean you have to go without. Try a muffin top, paired with scrambled eggs and a slice of fruit for a more balanced breakfast that will keep you feeling fuller, longer.
Alexia Sweet Potato Fries with Sea Salt
There’s nothing wrong with the white potato, but sweet potatoes do pack a little extra in the nutrient department thanks to beta-carotene, which becomes vitamin A for eye health. And with Alexia, you get a french fry without the fry. Bake and serve these with your favorite burger.
Break out of the cereal routine with a grain medley that will kick start your morning and fuel your workouts. This one is tasty and an good source of fiber, protein, and iron.
Steel-cut oats are the gold standard when it comes to oatmeal, but they can take forever to cook. With the frozen variety, you can have a hearty breakfast in just three minutes. Choose the unsweetened option to keep your sugar intake in check.
You don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen to cook up a nutritious meal that makes your mouth water. This butternut squash-based risotto is just 70 calories per serving (three servings per bag), so you can actually enjoy all three servings as part of a full dinner, or pair it with your favorite protein for a light side dish.
It says “breakfast” burrito, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great desk lunch option. These are high in protein and fiber to keep you feeling full, and they don’t taste like a gas station meal even though you can probably find them there.
Dress up your Sunday at-home brunch with a side of organic hashed browns. They’re a good source of carbs, and they go great with a runny yolk.
Wild-caught sockeye salmon is one of the best sources of omega 3s, which can boost brain and heart health. But when it’s not in season, head to the freezer section and either grill or bake it for a nutritious meal all year round.
Edamame are high in plant protein and add texture to any dish. Toss into your next stir-fry or shell them and add to soup.
Waffles can be part of a balanced breakfast when they’re low in sugar and high in fiber. The Kashi Waffles 7 Grain are both. Add a smear of peanut butter for healthy fat and added protein or top with fruit instead of syrup for less sugar.
Keep a few of these frozen garlic cubes in your freezer so you can spice up any dish quickly—no peeling required! One cube equals one clove.
Heather is the former food and nutrition editor for Runner’s World, the author of The Runner’s World Vegetarian Cookbook, and a nine-time marathoner with a best of 3:23. She’s also proud of her 19:40 5K and 5:33 mile. Heather is an RRCA certified run coach.
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