Thursday

"I have the power to do the things I set my mind to."

Welcome to Thursday! Today, we're discussing:

• How no-cook meals can simplify your day

• Expert food safety tips

• How to stay prepared for unexpected expenses

• Must-know information to navigate food recalls

Discover No-Cook Meals to Simplify Your Schedule

If the thought of cooking a meal after you get home from a long day of work has you groaning, you’re not alone. However, what if you could make meals without having to cook at all? Meet no-cook meals.

As the name suggests, “no-cook meals” are those you can quickly toss together, without having to turn on the heat.

They take a fraction of the time to make. All you have to do is cut or toss together some ingredients, and you’re good to go! It’s that simple. This is great for those meals when you don’t want to eat out, but you don’t have the time or energy to cook. A lot of these lean on fresh ingredients, too, which is a great way to enjoy a variety of nutrients.

Some of our favorite no-cook meals include:

• Loaded salads with pre-cooked protein, veggies, and avocado

• Sandwiches with yummy sauces

• Wraps full of hummus, beans, or spreads

• Poke bowls

• Tuna or chicken salad with crackers

• Charcuterie plates

To brainstorm your own no-cook meals, try and fit in the three macronutrients — carbs, protein, and fat — and see what ingredients you can build from that. There is no shortage of ideas you can try!

Expert Tips to Avoid Food Safety Mishaps in the Kitchen

Cooking can be quite the process. There are so many tools, steps, and things to do! However, with all those steps, it’s important to prioritize safety — especially when handling raw meat, dairy, and other items.

Here are some expert tips to avoid safety mishaps:

• Trust a thermometer: A thermometer is your best friend to ensure food is at the correct temperature. Use one in your fridge and freezer to be sure it’s not warmer than it should be, and be sure to check the temperature of the meat to ensure it’s not undercooked.

• Use sharp knives: While sharp knives may seem scary, it’s actually more dangerous to use a dull knife!

• Keep things tidy: Clutter can pose a risk of things falling down, and not cleaning up in between items may allow bacteria and viruses to grow. Keep a tidy kitchen — including cleaning up messes when they happen.

• Avoid cross-contamination: Be sure to wash surfaces thoroughly after cooking with raw meat or eggs, and switch utensils. Don’t use the same towel for cleaning everything. If it touches raw meat — whether it’s your sink, a cutting board, or a utensil — get a new one to ensure safety!

Small, mindful steps can go a long way to ensure safety in the kitchen.

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Thank you to Spotloan for sponsoring Note To Self. 

What to Do During a Food Recall — and How Not to Panic

Hearing that a food has been recalled may spark a sense of panic. How do you know if the food you bought is unsafe to eat?

Here’s what you need to know.

First, take a deep breath. Next, you’ll want to do some research.

Recalls will contain important information, including stores that may have sold the food item, dates it may have been sold, dates that may be printed on the packaging, and item or batch numbers.

News stations, food companies, stores, and even the FDA may share notices about recalled food where you can find all the important information.

If you determine that the food you bought has been recalled, you can generally return it to the store where you purchased it. Otherwise, you should toss it out and be sure no one consumes it.

After you dispose of the food, it’s good practice to clean any surfaces that it may have come into contact with. Wipe down fridge or pantry shelves, clean countertops and utensils, and be sure to sanitize surfaces.

If you already ate some of the recalled food, don’t eat anymore. However, be sure to watch yourself for any potential health symptoms. See a healthcare provider promptly if you think you notice any symptoms.

Remember that recalls are part of keeping you safe. Take some deep breaths, and know that staying informed and taking steps once you’re aware can help.

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: The word mageirocophobia describes the fear of cooking. If you’re not fond of cooking, no-cook meals could be a great alternative to stay nourished.

• 🎁 Our Holiday Self-Care Picks: Don’t forget to check out our 2024 gift guide, a collection of thoughtful, wellness-focused products that help you feel your best, inside and out. Shop our gift guide here!

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Don't let "cooking" be defined as one thing — lean into what works for you and your schedule!

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!