Meal plan grocery list
Chicken breast
Ground beef
Salmon
Eggs
Milk
Greek yogurt
Cheddar cheese
Brown rice
Quinoa
Whole wheat pasta
Sweet potatoes
Broccoli
Spinach
Bell peppers
Tomatoes
Avocados
Bananas
Apples
Strawberries
Blueberries
Almonds
Walnuts
Olive oil
Butter
Black beans
Chickpeas
Tofu
Whole wheat bread
Oats
Honey
Garlic
Onions
Lemons
Meal plan overview
The complete meal plan for two offers a variety of recipes that are perfectly portioned for two people. This plan includes dishes like pasta with fresh tomato sauce, baked salmon with veggies, and shared desserts. It's designed to make meal prep enjoyable and convenient for couples.
Ideal for those cooking for a partner, this diet focuses on balanced meals that are easy to prepare together. It promotes healthy eating habits and quality time in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy pairs.
Foods to eat
- Whole Grain Pasta: Provides sustained energy and essential carbs for long runs.
- Bananas: Affordable source of potassium to prevent cramps and support muscle function.
- Chicken Breast: Lean protein to aid muscle repair and growth.
- Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins and complex carbs for energy.
- Greek Yogurt: High in protein and can be bought in bulk for cost savings.
✅ Tip
Foods not to eat
- High-Fat Snacks: Chips and creamy dips can lead to sluggishness and weight gain.
- Fast Food: Often high in unhealthy fats and low in nutritional value.
- Sugary Cereals: Quick sugar spike followed by an energy crash; not ideal for training.
- Processed Breads: White bread lacks the nutrients found in whole grain options.
- Artificially Sweetened Drinks: Can cause digestive issues and offer no nutritional benefits.
Main benefits
A budget meal plan for marathon training fuels your workouts without draining your wallet. It focuses on high-energy, affordable foods like oats, bananas, and legumes. This plan includes cost-effective sources of protein and carbs essential for endurance training. Additionally, it encourages batch cooking and using leftovers to ensure you always have nutritious meals ready, saving time and money.
🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
To keep meals exciting for two people while staying within budget, try these healthy swaps:
- For a different protein option, turkey meatballs can replace ground beef, offering a leaner and flavorful alternative.
- To add variety to your grains, barley can replace brown rice, providing a chewy texture and rich in fiber.
- For a vegetable alternative, butternut squash can replace sweet potatoes, adding a sweet, nutty flavor.
- To switch up your fruit selection, peaches can replace bananas, offering a juicy and vitamin C-rich option.
- For a different dairy option, ricotta cheese can replace cheddar cheese, offering a lighter and creamy texture.
How to budget on this meal plan
For a meal plan for two, buy in bulk to save on staples like rice, beans, and pasta. Plan meals together and cook larger portions to have leftovers. Shop for seasonal produce and use frozen fruits and vegetables to cut costs. Avoid processed foods which are often more expensive and less healthy.
Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Here are some healthy snack ideas for a complete meal plan for two:
- Fruit and cheese platter
- Veggie sticks with hummus
- Apple slices with peanut butter
- Greek yogurt with honey and granola
- Roasted nuts mix
- Whole grain crackers with guacamole
- Smoothie bowls with mixed toppings
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For a complete meal plan for two, include plenty of water, herbal teas, and black coffee. Enjoy homemade smoothies with fruits and vegetables, and moderate amounts of fresh juices. Limit sugary drinks and sodas. Sparkling water and water infused with fruits or herbs are great alternatives. Ensure both partners stay hydrated and make healthy beverage choices together.
How to get even more nutrients?
For a meal plan for two, vary protein sources with lean meats, fish, legumes, and dairy. Increase fiber through a mix of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporate healthy fats with nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Ensure meals are balanced and nutrient-dense to meet both individuals' needs and preferences.
Meal plan suggestion
Complete Meal Plan for Two
Day 1
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with strawberries, blueberries, and honey
- Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, broccoli, and bell peppers
- Dinner: Ground beef stuffed bell peppers with brown rice and spinach salad
- Snack: Apple slices with cheddar cheese
Calories: 1800 Fat: 70g Carbs: 190g Protein: 120g
Day 2
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with bananas, walnuts, and a drizzle of honey
- Lunch: Salmon with brown rice and sautéed spinach
- Dinner: Chicken and avocado whole wheat pasta with a side of roasted sweet potatoes
- Snack: Greek yogurt with blueberries and almonds
Calories: 1850 Fat: 75g Carbs: 200g Protein: 125g
Day 3
- Breakfast: Whole wheat toast with avocado and a poached egg
- Lunch: Chickpea salad with tomatoes, bell peppers, and spinach
- Dinner: Tofu stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and quinoa
- Snack: Banana with almond butter
Calories: 1750 Fat: 70g Carbs: 195g Protein: 115g
Day 4
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with apple slices and walnuts
- Lunch: Ground beef taco salad with black beans, tomatoes, and avocado
- Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and sautéed garlic spinach
- Snack: Strawberries with a handful of almonds
Calories: 1800 Fat: 72g Carbs: 190g Protein: 120g
Day 5
- Breakfast: Smoothie with Greek yogurt, strawberries, banana, and honey
- Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with whole wheat pasta, broccoli, and a lemon-garlic dressing
- Dinner: Ground beef and black bean chili with bell peppers and onions
- Snack: Apple slices with cheddar cheese
Calories: 1850 Fat: 73g Carbs: 200g Protein: 125g
Day 6
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries, almonds, and a drizzle of honey
- Lunch: Tofu and chickpea curry with brown rice
- Dinner: Chicken and avocado salad with a lemon-garlic dressing
- Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries and walnuts
Calories: 1750 Fat: 70g Carbs: 195g Protein: 115g
Day 7
- Breakfast: Whole wheat toast with almond butter and banana slices
- Lunch: Salmon salad with spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers
- Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and broccoli
- Snack: Apple slices with a handful of walnuts
Calories: 1800 Fat: 72g Carbs: 190g Protein: 120g
These nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.
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⚠️ Keep in mind
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Jul 2, 2024
- Updated on Oct 1, 2024