You’ve likely heard that multitasking is problematic and that it actually distracts you and prevents you from being efficient. But the kitchen is one place where you’re able to tackle multiple tasks and easily come out ahead. Sure, you learn to work faster, but you’ll also become much more methodical about what tasks can overlap to save you time, effort and additional dishes.
Order Is Key
Chefs will tell you that prep lists are helpful for determining your game plan. You don’t need to write out a game plan, but making sure you’ve read through a recipe a few times ensures you understand the order of what needs to be done, which will help you efficiently get through your meal. Also, it will prevent you from doubling up dishes. For instance, you can use the food processor to shred Parmesan since you’ll use it to blend your pesto.
Add a Layer
of Education
Don’t Waste
Boiling Water
When you’ve got a pot of salted water boiling for pasta, throw in a few eggs for the last six to eight minutes. You can always use a few hard-boiled eggs, right? Or use the water to blanch veggies for a few minutes before tossing in your pasta. That way you don’t dirty up another pot, and don’t worry, there’s no transferring of flavors.
Utilize Storage Containers
If you upgrade your storage containers to glass bowls, they become much more versatile. You can mix in them, serve in them and store leftovers—sometimes all in the very same bowl. The plain glass is good looking enough to be brought out to the table and the clear design makes it easy to see what you’ve got in the fridge.
8-Piece smart seal glass storage set, $29.99 by OXO
Double a Recipe
for the Freezer
If you’re making soups, curries, pasta sauces or meatballs, double your recipe and divvy up half for the freezer. These little packages from the past are a huge gift to your future self.
Prep Your Busywork
If you’ve got downtime while pasta boils or something roasts in the oven, use that time to prep a few time-consuming tasks to speed up future meal prep. Peel your garlic, chop up some veggies or rinse and trim your greens.
