Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time, money, and maintain a healthy diet. Not to mention the relief of the mental burden of figuring out what to have for lunch / dinner over and over again. With the help of budget-friendly meal prep gadgets, you can streamline your food preparation process and make cooking a breeze. Today we’ll introduce you to 10 meal prep gadgets that cost under $20 each. These affordable tools will revolutionize your meal prepping routine without breaking the bank.
*We have provided product links for your convenience, which may include affiliate links.
1. Vegetable Spiralizer:
Transform ordinary vegetables into healthy, low-carb alternatives with a vegetable spiralizer. Create zucchini noodles, sweet potato ribbons, or carrot strands for nutritious and versatile meal options.
A salad chopper bowl allows you to effortlessly chop and mix ingredients, resulting in evenly distributed flavors and textures. Enjoy a delicious, well-combined salad without the need for multiple cutting boards and knives.
These reusable silicone baking cups are perfect for portioning out ingredients while baking. Use them for making muffins, individual egg cups, or mini quiches. The non-stick surface ensures easy release and cleanup.
Say goodbye to tedious herb chopping with a pair of herb scissors. These specialized scissors feature multiple blades, making it quick and easy to finely chop fresh herbs directly into your dishes.
Optimize your storage space with collapsible food storage containers. These containers are perfect for packing lunches or storing leftovers, and they conveniently collapse to a fraction of their original size when empty.
Extract every last drop of juice from lemons, limes, and oranges with a citrus squeezer. This handheld gadget is simple to use and ensures you get the most flavor from your citrus fruits.
Prepare hard-boiled eggs with ease using an egg cooker. These compact devices perfectly cook eggs to your desired level of doneness and save you time and effort in the process.
A rice cooker is a versatile kitchen gadget that can prepare not only rice but also quinoa, couscous, and other grains. Enjoy perfectly cooked grains without the hassle of monitoring the stovetop.
Achieve uniform slices of fruits and vegetables effortlessly with a mandoline slicer. From paper-thin cuts to thicker slices, this tool will enhance your food presentation and cooking precision.
Invest in a set of affordable meal prep containers to portion and store your prepped meals. Look for BPA-free, stackable containers with compartments, making it easy to separate different components of your meal. I definitely prefer glass, but there are tons of great options in food safe plastics, aluminum, etc.
My favorite set is over $20, but I’ll include the link anyway – they go on sale frequently so you may be able to score a deal:
Meal prepping doesn’t have to be expensive, thanks to these 10 affordable meal prep gadgets, each costing under $20. From spiralizing veggies to chopping herbs and perfectly portioning meals, these tools will simplify your meal prep routine without straining your budget. Embrace these cost-effective gadgets and enjoy the convenience, efficiency, and delicious results they bring to your kitchen. Happy meal prepping!
The Fourth of July is a time to gather with loved ones, celebrate, and indulge in delicious food. But who says amazing dishes have to be complicated? Today we bring you easy Fourth of July recipes that require just five ingredients or less. From refreshing drinks to savory bites and sweet treats, these recipes will impress your guests without causing kitchen chaos. So, let’s dive in and make your Fourth of July celebration a breeze!
1. Red, White, and Blue Fruit Kabobs:
These colorful fruit kabobs are a festive and healthy treat. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Strawberries, hulled and halved
– Blueberries
– Marshmallows
– Skewers or toothpicks
– Honey or yogurt (optional)
Instructions: Thread a strawberry half, a marshmallow, and a blueberry onto each skewer or toothpick. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Optionally, drizzle with honey or dip in yogurt for added sweetness. Serve as a refreshing and patriotic snack.
2. Mini Watermelon Pizza:
Make snack time exciting with these Mini Watermelon Pizzas. Gather these ingredients:
Instructions: Spread a layer of Greek yogurt or cream cheese on each watermelon slice. Arrange fresh berries on top. Optionally, sprinkle shredded coconut or granola for added texture. Drizzle with honey if desired. Let the kids get creative with their own mini watermelon pizzas!
3. Firecracker Popcorn:
This crunchy and colorful popcorn treat will light up the kids’ taste buds. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Popcorn, popped
– White chocolate chips or candy melts
– Red and blue food coloring
– Festive sprinkles (optional)
– Popcorn bags or serving bowls
Instructions: Melt the white chocolate chips or candy melts according to the package instructions. Divide the melted chocolate into two bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and blue food coloring to the other, mixing until well blended. Drizzle the colored chocolate over the popcorn, alternating between red and blue. Optionally, add festive sprinkles for extra flair. Allow the chocolate to set before serving in popcorn bags or bowls.
4. Star-shaped Pizzas:
Let the kids become mini chefs with these fun and customizable star-shaped pizzas. Gather these ingredients:
– Pre-made pizza dough or tortillas
– Pizza sauce
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Mini pepperoni slices or other favorite toppings
– Star-shaped cookie cutter
Instructions: Preheat the oven according to the pizza dough instructions. Roll out the pizza dough or use tortillas as the base. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to create star-shaped pizza crusts. Spread pizza sauce on each star-shaped crust. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and add mini pepperoni slices or other desired toppings. Bake according to the dough instructions until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the kids enjoy their homemade star-shaped pizzas!
5. Berry Parfait Cups:
These delightful Berry Parfait Cups are a simple and tasty dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
Instructions: Layer vanilla yogurt, fresh berries, and granola or crushed graham crackers in clear plastic cups or small bowls. Repeat the layers until the desired amount is reached.
6. Creamy Bacon Ranch Dip:
This irresistible dip is a perfect starter for your Fourth of July party. Gather these ingredients:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 packet ranch dressing mix
– ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
– ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions: In a bowl, mix sour cream and ranch dressing mix until well combined. Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve with chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks.
7. BBQ Chicken Sliders:
These BBQ Chicken Sliders are sure to be a hit among your guests. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
– BBQ sauce
– Slider buns
– Pickles (optional)
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions: In a saucepan, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce over medium heat until heated through. Place a spoonful of the BBQ chicken mixture onto each slider bun. Add pickles and coleslaw if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the finger-licking goodness.
8. Watermelon Feta Skewers:
These refreshing Watermelon Feta Skewers add a burst of flavor to your Fourth of July spread. Gather these ingredients:
– Watermelon, cut into cubes
– Feta cheese, cut into cubes
– Fresh mint leaves
– Balsamic glaze
– Skewers or toothpicks
Instructions: Thread a watermelon cube, a feta cheese cube, and a fresh mint leaf onto each skewer or toothpick. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added tanginess. Arrange them on a platter and serve as a delightful appetizer.
9. Easy Caprese Salad:
Fresh, vibrant, and effortless, this Easy Caprese Salad is a summer classic. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh tomatoes, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
– Olive oil
– Balsamic glaze
Instructions: Alternate the slices of mozzarella cheese and tomatoes on a platter. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired. Serve as a refreshing side dish.
10. Patriotic Fruit Popsicles:
Cool down and celebrate with these colorful Patriotic Fruit Popsicles. Gather these ingredients:
– Fresh strawberries, sliced
– Fresh blueberries
– Coconut water or fruit juice
– Popsicle molds or small paper cups
– Popsicle sticks
Instructions: Fill each popsicle mold or paper cup with a layer of sliced strawberries. Add a layer of blueberries. Fill the mold with coconut water or fruit juice. Insert popsicle sticks into each mold. Freeze until solid. Once frozen, remove from the molds or cups and serve as a festive frozen treat.
11. Sparkling Watermelon Lemonade:
Quench your thirst with a refreshing and vibrant Sparkling Watermelon Lemonade. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 4 cups cubed watermelon
– Juice of 2 lemons
– 4 cups sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions: In a blender, blend the watermelon until smooth. Strain the juice into a pitcher, then add the lemon juice and sparkling water. Stir gently, add ice cubes, and garnish with mint leaves. Serve chilled.
12. Caprese Skewers:
Create a colorful and delightful appetizer with these Caprese Skewers. Gather these ingredients:
– Fresh cherry tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves
– Mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
– Balsamic glaze
– Skewers or toothpicks
Instructions: Thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve as an elegant finger food option.
13. Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers:
Fire up the grill and savor the smoky flavors of these Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers. Grab these ingredients:
– Boneless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
– BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
– Skewers
Instructions: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Season the chicken chunks with salt and pepper. Thread them onto skewers. Brush the chicken with BBQ sauce and drizzle with olive oil. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Serve hot.
14. Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad:
Add a patriotic touch to your table with a refreshing Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Strawberries
– Blueberries
– White seedless grapes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
– Honey or lime juice (optional)
Instructions: Wash and prepare the fruits. Slice the strawberries. In a bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, and white grapes. Toss gently. Optionally, drizzle with honey or lime juice for extra sweetness. Garnish with mint leaves. Serve chilled.
15. Easy Berry Parfait:
Indulge in a delightful and effortless Easy Berry Parfait for a sweet Fourth of July treat. Gather these ingredients:
Instructions: In a glass or bowl, layer Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and granola. Repeat the layers until the desired amount is reached. Optionally, drizzle with honey for added sweetness. Garnish with mint leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!
With these five easy Fourth of July recipes requiring just five ingredients or less, you can impress your guests and enjoy a stress-free celebration. From refreshing drinks and savory bites to sweet treats, these dishes capture the flavors and spirit of Independence Day. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and let the fireworks fly!
More is more! Top 10 Decor Ideas to Create a Bold and Vibrant Space
In the world of interior design, minimalism has long been celebrated for its simplicity and clean lines. However, there’s a rising trend that encourages you to unleash your creativity and embrace a bolder approach: maximalism.
Maximalism is all about embracing color, pattern, and mixing various elements to create an eclectic and vibrant space. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 maximalist decor ideas that will help you transform your home into a captivating and personality-filled haven. To make it easier for you to bring these ideas to life, we’ve included affiliated product links for each item.
1. Statement Wallpaper:
Make a bold statement by adorning your walls with vibrant and patterned wallpaper. The Tempaper Peonies Removable Wallpaper (Link: [Product Link]) adds a touch of whimsy and floral elegance to any room.
2. Eclectic Mix of Patterns:
Mixing patterns is a key element of maximalist decor. The Plaid Poly Filled Square Throw Pillows (Link: [Product Link]) feature an array of bold that add visual interest and a pop of color to your sofa or bed.
3. Gallery Wall:
Create an eye-catching focal point by curating a gallery wall filled with eclectic artwork and photographs. The Gallery Perfect 7-Piece Black Photo Frame Set (Link: [Product Link]) offers a cohesive and stylish solution for displaying your favorite pieces.
4. Oversized Statement Mirror:
An oversized statement mirror not only serves a practical purpose but also adds depth and visual appeal to your space. The Howard Elliott Queen Ann Oval Hanging Wall Mirror (Link: [Product Link]) features an ornate frame that makes a dramatic impact.
5. Vibrant Area Rug:
An area rug can tie the room together and inject a burst of color and texture. The Unique Loom Sofia Traditional Area Rug (Link: [Product Link]) offers a stunning medley of vibrant hues and intricate patterns.
6. Bold Lighting Fixtures:
Don’t shy away from bold lighting fixtures that demand attention. The Light Modern Glam Dimmable Sputnik Chandelier with Glass Globe (Link: [Product Link]) features an explosion of arms with multiple bulbs, adding a touch of glamour and drama to your space.
7. Luxurious Velvet:
Incorporate luxurious velvet textures into your decor for a touch of opulence. The Home Brilliant Velvet Decorative Throw Pillow Covers (Link: [Product Link]) provide a plush and rich addition to your sofa or armchair.
8. Colorful Ceramic Accents:
Infuse your space with pops of color through vibrant ceramic accents. The Rivet Modern Ceramic Flower Vase (Link: [Product Link]) boasts a unique design and vivid hues, adding a touch of whimsy to your floral arrangements.
9. Mix and Match Furniture:
Embrace the idea of mixing and matching furniture pieces to create an eclectic look. The Christopher Knight Home Egg Chair (Link: [Product Link]) combines retro style with modern comfort, making it a standout addition to any maximalist space.
10. Lush Indoor Plants:
Bring the outdoors in with lush and vibrant indoor plants. The Costa Farms Money Tree Pachira (Link: [Product Link]) not only adds a touch of greenery but also brings positive energy and good fortune to your home.
Maximalism is all about celebrating individuality and expressing your unique style. By incorporating these top 10 decor ideas, you can transform your space into a vibrant and captivating haven that reflects your personality. From statement wallpaper to eclectic mix-and-match furniture, let your imagination run wild and create a maximalist oasis that truly speaks to your creative spirit.
10 Popular Patio Decor Items to Elevate Your Outdoor Space
Hello summer!! Designing a stunning patio is all about finding the right decor pieces that combine style, functionality, and durability. To help you create an inviting outdoor oasis, we’ve curated a list of 10 popular patio decor items that are sure to transform your space. From cozy seating to ambient lighting, these products will enhance your outdoor experience. Explore our selection below, complete with convenient product links for easy shopping.
Hanging Egg Chair: Add a touch of luxury and relaxation with this trendy hanging egg chair from Amazon: Hanging Egg Chair
Solar-Powered String Lights: Set a magical ambiance with these solar-powered string lights from Home Depot: Solar-Powered String Lights
Outdoor Dining Set: Enjoy al fresco dining with this sleek and sturdy outdoor dining set from IKEA: Outdoor Dining Set
Outdoor Rug: Define your patio space with this stylish and durable outdoor rug from Rugs USA: Outdoor Rug
Outdoor Planters: Display your favorite plants with these modern and lightweight outdoor planters from Target: Planters
Outdoor Fire Pit: Stay warm and cozy on chilly nights with this versatile and portable outdoor fire pit from Walmart: Outdoor Fire Pit
Outdoor Poufs: Add extra seating and a pop of color with these versatile outdoor poufs from Overstock: and Outdoor Poufs
Outdoor Umbrella: Stay cool and protected from the sun with this stylish outdoor umbrella from Overstock: Outdoor Umbrella
Outdoor Plant Stands: Elevate your plant display with these modern and minimalist outdoor plant stands from West Elm: Outdoor Plant Stands
With these 10 popular patio decor items, you can create a stunning and inviting outdoor space that reflects your style and enhances your outdoor experience. From comfortable seating to ambient lighting and stylish accessories, these products will elevate your patio to a whole new level. Simply click on the product links to conveniently shop for each item and start transforming your outdoor space into a haven of relaxation and enjoyment. Cheers!
Maximizing Savings with Rakuten: A Shopper’s Guide
In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to save money has become essential. With countless online retailers offering attractive deals, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the vast sea of options. However, savvy shoppers have discovered a game-changing solution: Rakuten. In this blog post, we will explore how Rakuten empowers users to save money effortlessly while indulging in their shopping desires.
What is Rakuten? Rakuten is a leading global e-commerce platform that rewards its users with cashback, coupons, and exclusive deals when they shop through its portal. Originally founded in Japan, Rakuten has gained immense popularity worldwide, becoming a go-to destination for smart shoppers looking to stretch their budgets.
How does Rakuten work? Using Rakuten is remarkably simple. Here’s how it works:
Sign up and create an account: Start by registering for a free Rakuten account. It only takes a few minutes, and you’ll gain access to a world of savings.
Browse through the Rakuten portal: Once logged in, explore the vast selection of partner retailers available on Rakuten. From fashion and electronics to travel and home goods, there’s something for everyone.
Click, shop, and earn cashback: When you find an enticing offer or store, click on it to be redirected to the retailer’s website. Complete your purchase as usual, and Rakuten will track your transaction and credit your account with cashback.
Redeem your cashback: Accumulate your cashback rewards, and Rakuten will pay you via check or PayPal. It’s like getting paid to shop!
By signing up through this link, you’ll receive a special welcome bonus when you make your first qualifying purchase:
Cashback rewards: The primary allure of Rakuten lies in its cashback feature. Users can earn a percentage of their purchase amount back, which can quickly add up over time. Whether it’s a small everyday purchase or a significant investment, every dollar saved counts.
Exclusive deals and coupons: Rakuten partners with numerous retailers to offer exclusive deals and discounts. By shopping through Rakuten, users gain access to a treasure trove of savings, helping them snag the best prices available.
Convenience and simplicity: Rakuten’s user-friendly interface makes it effortless to find and shop at your favorite stores. With just a few clicks, you can be on your way to saving money while enjoying the convenience of online shopping.
Rakuten browser extension: Rakuten’s browser extension is a game-changer for those who frequently shop online. By installing it in your browser, you can receive real-time notifications about available cashback and coupons while you browse, ensuring you never miss out on savings.
Travel rewards: Beyond retail shopping, Rakuten offers cashback rewards on travel bookings, including flights, hotels, and car rentals. This feature allows users to save significantly on their vacations or business trips.
Join Rakuten using this referral link to unlock additional savings and enjoy a head start on your cashback rewards journey:
In an era where every penny counts, Rakuten emerges as an invaluable tool for cost-conscious shoppers. By harnessing the power of cashback, exclusive deals, and coupons, Rakuten empowers users to make the most of their purchases. So, whether you’re shopping for daily necessities or indulging in a splurge, remember to activate Rakuten and maximize your savings effortlessly. Happy shopping!
Florida Fever 