“I’m No Betty Crocker”: Simple Tips for Eating Well Without the Fuss

I used to joke with my kids, “I’m no Betty Crocker in the kitchen.” But despite my lack of culinary flair, I always managed to put home-cooked meals on the table. Why? For two main reasons: first, we lived out in the boonies, where eating out wasn’t much of an option, and second, we valued family meals together.

While writing a cookbook isn’t in my future, I’ve picked up some easy tips over the years that make eating healthy a breeze. Let me share a few of my favorites to help you step up your eating game without adding extra stress.

1. Prep Your Protein

Protein is the foundation of so many meals, and prepping it in advance can save you tons of time. One of my go-to hacks is making hard-boiled eggs in the air fryer. It’s so simple! I set mine at 250°F for 16 minutes, then let the eggs cool in an ice bath for 15 minutes. They’re easy to peel and perfect for quick snacks or meals all week long.

Another idea is prepping protein salads like tuna, chicken, salmon, or egg salad. Use a good-quality mayo (and mind the serving sizes!), creamy avocado or even Greek yogurt, then mix in chopped veggies like carrots, celery, or onion for extra flavor and crunch.

Don’t forget canned beans! I always keep black beans and chickpeas on hand. Rinse them and store them in the fridge so they’re ready to toss onto salads, into soups, or alongside meat dishes.

2. Whole Food Snacks Made Easy

I’m not a big snacker, but sometimes a little something between meals is just what you need. The key? Pairing whole foods with protein for lasting energy.

Here are some easy, satisfying combos:

• Banana with walnuts

• Apple slices with almond butter

• Berries with plain Greek yogurt

• Grapes with a few ounces of cheese

Fruits are great for on-the-go snacking, packed with fiber, and pair perfectly with protein. To make your life easier, wash fruits ahead of time and portion out the protein so it’s ready to grab and go.

3. Get Smart About Labels

There’s a growing awareness about the quality of processed foods in the U.S., and reading labels is one of the easiest ways to make better choices. Here’s what to look for:

• Serving Size: Check if a serving is 8 crackers, not the whole box. It’s easy to overeat when we lose track of portions.

• Added Sugar: Aim for foods with less than 5 grams of added sugar. Naturally occurring sugars (like those in dates or apples) are different from sugars added during processing.

• Hydrogenated Oils: Steer clear of these highly processed oils—they’re tough on the body.

• Protein & Fiber: Look for foods with a good balance of both to help you feel fuller longer.

  
  

Pro tip: Focus on the back of the package, not the front. Claims like “all natural” or “whole grain” are often marketing fluff. The nutritional info on the back tells the real story.

Start Small, Think Big

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a chore. By starting with simple changes like prepping protein, choosing whole food snacks, and reading labels, you can make a big difference in your nutrition without feeling overwhelmed.

Remember, small shifts add up to meaningful progress. So whether you’re whipping up an air-fried egg or pairing apple slices with almond butter, you’re making strides toward a healthier, happier you.

Ready to learn more? Be sure to grab your Six Small Shifts Checklist to help you get started on your wellness journey.

Wishing you peace, strength and love,  

Maryann