ThePrep Your Week’s Simple & Fast Meal Plan

ThePrep, has everything you’ll need to make meal planning and meal prep as easy as can be. Sign up here to get a meal plan delivered to your inbox every Saturday!

ThePrep Particularly when the days grow longer, I enjoy winding down from a hectic workday by going for a walk, watching Shark Tank with my spouse, or lounging on the couch. However, sometimes dinner takes longer to make than I expect it to, and I’m left with no time for my after-dinner activities. That’s why this week, I’ll stick to recipes I can prep in 25 minutes or less, so I make sure I have time to relax after dinner.

Get the Recipe: Frozen Vs Fresh Vegetables: How To Choose The Best For Your Meals

Why Quick Dinners Matter

After a busy weekday, I love winding down with an episode of Shark Tank alongside my husband or going for an evening walk, especially now that the days are getting longer. However, when dinner prep takes longer than expected, I often miss out on my favorite after-dinner activities. That’s why this week, I’m sticking to fast and flavorful recipes that require minimal prep time—so I can enjoy a relaxed evening without spending too much time in the kitchen.

This Week’s Meal Plan

This week’s menu proves that eating nutritious, home-cooked meals doesn’t have to be time-consuming. These dinners are packed with delicious flavors, essential nutrients, and require just 25 minutes or less of prep time. Each meal provides around 450 calories, but feel free to adjust portions based on your hunger and dietary needs.

Here’s what’s cooking this week:

• Sunday: Bacon, Leek & Pear Skillet Pizza (378 calories)
• Monday: Roasted Chickpea Curry Bowl topped with 1/3 of an avocado (410 calories)
• Tuesday: Creamy Harissa Chicken Cutlets with 2 cups mixed greens and Sherry Dijon Vinaigrette (434 calories)
• Wednesday: Seared Tuna with Bulgur & Chickpea Salad (459 calories)
• Thursday: Skillet Lemon Chicken with Spinach, served with toasted whole-wheat baguette (427 calories)
• Friday: Grilled Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Broccoli & Cauliflower Sauté (393 calories)

Featured Recipe: Creamy Harissa Chicken Cutlets

Tuesday’s Creamy Harissa Chicken Cutlets are a great example of a meal that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Harissa, a North African and Middle Eastern spice paste made from chili peppers, not only adds a rich, smoky heat to the dish but also contains capsaicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for weight management.

This five-star-rated recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish and is prepared in two simple steps. I’ll be serving it with a fresh mixed greens salad dressed in my go-to Sherry Dijon Vinaigrette—a simple yet flavorful way to add more veggies to the meal.

📌 Get the printable shopping list here!

A Refreshing Drink to Try

One of my favorite ways to enjoy the weekend is by sipping on a glass of wine or beer on the rooftop. However, my husband and I are currently taking a break from alcohol, which means finding delicious, non-alcoholic alternatives.

Enter the Watermelon Mint Mocktail—a refreshing and fruity drink that’s perfect for warm days. Garnishing it with fresh mint leaves and a watermelon slice makes it feel extra special.

🍹 Get the recipe: Watermelon Mint Mocktail

What’s Inspiring Me This Week

Easter lunch has always been a cherished tradition in my family. When I was younger, my grandma would host, preparing classic Middle Eastern dishes like tabbouleh, kibbeh, and lamb-stuffed grape leaves. Later, my mom took over, adding dishes like paella and fresh salads to the menu.

This year, since my husband and I won’t be able to join our families, we’ve decided to host our own Easter lunch with friends. I’ve been looking for inspiration to create a delicious yet stress-free menu, and Giada De Laurentiis’ Easter recipes seem like the perfect fit—simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to please a crowd.

Final Thoughts

This week’s ThePrep is all about quick, nutritious meals that let you enjoy more free time in the evenings. With an exciting menu, a refreshing mocktail, and Easter lunch inspiration, meal planning has never been easier!

📩 Want more meal plans and easy recipes? Sign up now and get them delivered every Saturday!