Summer has a way of sweeping us out of our routines. This year, I found myself on the road quite a bit—exploring Atlanta’s food scene, tasting beignets in New Orleans, enjoying fresh seafood at the Outer Banks, walking the historic streets of Philadelphia, and squeezing in some relaxation in Delaware. Each trip was a chance to enjoy new flavors, but it also meant stepping away from my usual structure.

Now that August is here, it’s time to settle back into a rhythm—especially with school and work routines picking up again. For many of us, that means prioritizing meals that are quick, easy, and affordable, without sacrificing nutrition.

Here are a few of my go-to strategies for getting back on track:

1. Batch Prep Proteins
Grill or roast chicken, salmon, or lean beef in bulk on Sunday. These can be repurposed all week—tossed into salads, wrapped in whole grain tortillas, or served alongside frozen veggies for a balanced plate.

2. Lean on “Shortcut” Produce
Pre-washed salad greens, frozen stir-fry mixes, and microwave-steam bags of veggies save time and reduce waste. Pair them with your batch-prepped protein for instant meals.

3. Affordable Pantry Staples
Keep canned beans, tuna, whole grain pasta, and brown rice on hand. They stretch your budget and make it easy to throw together a nourishing meal in 15 minutes.

4. Make Breakfast Grab-and-Go
Overnight oats, yogurt parfaits, or hard-boiled eggs keep mornings stress-free and prevent skipping meals when you’re rushing out the door.

5. Think “Mix and Match”
Build a meal formula: protein + fiber + healthy fat. Once you have this structure, you can create endless combinations without overthinking.

Don’t Forget Your Freezer Staples

One of the best ways to save time (and money) is to keep a well-stocked freezer. Having a variety of ready-to-use ingredients on hand means dinner can be ready in minutes. Some of my favorites include:

• Protein: shrimp, salmon burgers, meatballs, cooked lentils, or ravioli
• Vegetables: broccoli, spinach, corn, cauliflower rice, stir-fry blends, or mixed vegetables
• Fruits: berries, tropical fruit blends, or avocado
• Grains: rice, quinoa, or grain medleys
• Flavor Boosters: garlic or ginger cubes, chopped onions

Mix and match these freezer staples with fresh items, and you’ll always have the makings of a quick, nourishing meal—no takeout required.

After a whirlwind summer of travel, getting back to routine doesn’t mean losing the joy of food. It’s about finding a balance between convenience, affordability, and nutrition—so you feel energized and ready to take on the season ahead.