Healthy, Homemade Gifts: MRE (No, Not Those Meals Ready to Eat)

By , SparkPeople Blogger
After a long, hard day at work, school, the gym and carpooling duty, who has the time, energy or interest in standing over the stove for an hour? Why not ease the burden for a busy friend or family member with a meal ready to eat?


We're not suggesting you head to the military supply store and stock up on "meals ready to eat." Instead, pick a recipe that your loved one really likes. Maybe it's your chicken and dumplings, lasagna or bean burritos. Whatever it is, make up a batch of it, then pack it in single portions or a family-size container. Keep the meal in the freezer until it's time to exchange gifts. Your gift will melt the recipient's heart!

Think of easy recipes that freeze well: casseroles, stews, and soups are all great ideas.

My stepmom doesn't like to cook, so each time I go home, I bake a lasagna and a chicken casserole and put them in the freezer so she, my dad and my little sister can have hot, home-cooked meals with minimal effort. What is your fail-proof make-ahead meal that you could share with others?