Meal prepping has recently gained popularity as more people are looking for ways to save time and eat healthier. With our hectic schedules, it can be challenging to find the time to cook and prepare healthy meals every day. This is where meal prep comes in - it involves preparing meals in advance for the week, allowing you to have ready-made, healthy meals at your convenience. While meal prep may seem like a daunting task, it doesn't have to be. Here are 36 easy healthy meal prep ideas that can be ready in just one hour, and the positive benefits that come with them.

1. Time-Saving: The biggest benefit of meal prepping is saving time. By spending just one hour prepping, you can have healthy meals for the entire week. This means you won't have to spend time cooking and cleaning every day, giving you more time to focus on other important tasks.

2. Saves Money: Meal prepping also saves you money in the long run. By buying ingredients in bulk and cooking in larger portions, you can save money on groceries and avoid the temptation of eating out, which can be expensive.

3. Portion Control: With meal prepping, you can control your portions and ensure you are eating the right amount of food. This is especially beneficial for those trying to watch their weight or maintain a healthy diet.

4. Eliminates Decision Fatigue: When we are faced with too many decisions throughout the day, it can lead to decision fatigue. With meal prep, you have your meals planned out for the week, eliminating the need to constantly decide what to eat.

5. Healthier Option: By meal prepping, you have complete control over the ingredients in your meals. You can choose to use fresh, whole foods and avoid processed and unhealthy options. This not only benefits your physical health but also your mental well-being.

Now, let's dive into 36 easy healthy meal prep ideas that can be ready in one hour:

1. One-Pan Roasted Veggies and Chicken: This simple and nutritious meal can be prepared by roasting a variety of vegetables and chicken on one pan.

2. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad is loaded with protein and can be prepped ahead for a quick and filling lunch.

3. Veggie Fried Rice: Using brown rice, vegetables, and soy sauce, you can whip up a healthy version of this classic takeout dish.

4. Mason Jar Salads: Layer your favorite veggies, protein, and dressing in a mason jar for a grab-and-go lunch option.

5. Baked Turkey Meatballs: These lean and flavorful meatballs can be served with your choice of whole grains and vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

6. Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Layer Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, and granola in individual containers for a delicious and nutritious breakfast.

7. Chicken Fajita Bowls: Seasoned grilled chicken, peppers, and onions served over brown rice make for a delicious and easy lunch or dinner option.

8. Bean and Vegetable Soup: This hearty soup can be prepared in bulk and frozen for later, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks.

9. Pesto Pasta with Chicken and Veggies: Use whole wheat pasta and add in your choice of vegetables and protein for a filling and nutritious meal.

10. Turkey and Veggie Wrap: Fill whole wheat wraps with turkey, your choice of veggies, and hummus for a quick and healthy lunch option.

11. Baked Salmon and Vegetables: Simply season and bake salmon with your choice of vegetables for a nutritious and easy dinner option.

12. Egg Muffins: These protein-packed muffins can be baked ahead and stored for a quick and filling breakfast option.

13. Beef Stir-Fry: Marinate beef in a healthy stir-fry sauce and add in your choice of vegetables for a delicious and easy dinner.

14. Hummus and Vegetable Wrap: Spread hummus on a wrap and add in your favorite vegetables for a quick and healthy lunch option.

15. Turkey Chili: This easy and hearty dish can be made in bulk and frozen for a quick dinner option on busy nights.

16. Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps: Mix canned tuna with avocado, lemon juice, and your choice of vegetables for a tasty and low-carb lunch.

17. Chicken Burrito Bowls: Using chicken, seasoned rice, beans, and vegetables, you can create delicious and customizable burrito bowls for meal prep.

18. Baked Sweet Potato and Bean Tacos: Roast sweet potatoes and beans and stuff them into tacos for a healthy and satisfying lunch or dinner.

19. Chickpea Curry: This flavorful and protein-packed curry is an easy meal prep option for vegetarians.

20. Crockpot Shredded Chicken: Use a crockpot to cook chicken in bulk and add it to salads, wraps, and sandwiches for a quick and protein-filled meal.