Jenna Zaffino:
I mentioned earlier that Power Pudding is a great meal prep dish. I like to keep small glass containers of it in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go option. To prep it, we’ll start by portioning out the pudding. Hopefully, it goes in without making too much of a mess—so far, so good! I aim for about ⅔ to ¾ cup per container. You’ll notice I have one small and one larger container here, but the size doesn’t really matter.
This pudding makes a fantastic breakfast option or even a mid-afternoon snack—perfect for that 3 PM slump when I need an energy boost. Once the pudding is in, I give it a little tap to settle it, and then we can think about how to flavor these.
First, I’m adding a little granola—about a tablespoon per container—to create a nice layer between the pudding and the toppings. Keep in mind that the pudding will firm up a bit after chilling in the fridge, so if it looks a little jiggly at first, that’s completely normal.
Next, I’m adding some freeze-dried strawberries—I have a mix of strawberries and raspberries, which I find absolutely delicious. I’m a huge fan of berries overall!
Now, for an extra layer of texture and flavor, I’m sprinkling in some unsweetened coconut flakes. These add a little crunch without the extra sugar, making them a nutritious addition.
To boost the nutrient content, I’m also adding a flax and chia seed mixture—a little goes a long way. And if you want to take this up a notch, you can add a dollop of natural peanut butter on top. It’s a nice surprise that adds richness and extra protein. Personally, I love a nutty flavor in this combination.
Finally, I’ll drizzle a little honey on top—just about ½ teaspoon—for a touch of sweetness. Once that’s done, these beautiful little parfaits are ready to go in the fridge! They pack a great protein punch and are an awesome snack to have on hand.
A big part of successful meal planning is being prepared. I find that when I don’t plan ahead, the chances of diving headfirst into a random snack—like a whole box of something—are much higher. And hey, we’re all human, so if that happens, it’s okay! But I know I feel more satisfied and nourished when I’ve planned ahead, rather than making a desperate grab for something out of convenience.
Now, let’s move on to our final creation—our yogurt-based concoction. This one is going to be a good one!
