Flavor pairings can totally change how you prepare your lunches. They can make boring meals into something you'll actually look forward to during the week. Here’s how I like to think about it:

1. Base Ingredients

Start with some basic ingredients that you can use in many ways. These include:

• Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, or farro
• Proteins: Chicken, chickpeas, or tofu
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach

2. Flavor Profiles

Pick a flavor theme for the week. This helps your meals taste good together. Here are some ideas:

• Mediterranean: Use lemon, olive oil, garlic, and herbs
• Asian: Think about soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and scallions
• Mexican: Try cilantro, lime, chili powder, and cumin

3. Seasonings & Sauces

Keep some important seasonings and sauces on hand to keep things interesting. For example:

• Dressings: Make a large batch of tahini dressing or a simple vinaigrette
• Marinades: Use teriyaki marinade for your proteins
• Spices: Cumin, paprika, and Italian seasoning can really change up your dishes

4. Mix and Match

The great thing about meal prep is you can mix and match these flavors throughout the week. Just add a new sauce or seasoning to the same base ingredients each day. This way, you can enjoy variety without putting in extra work!

By thinking about flavor pairings, you'll keep your lunch fun and tasty all week long!