Cooking healthy meals and snacks is easier than you think

Most people would like to eat a bit healthier, but in a world of endless easy options the less healthy alternatives often win out. But with the right appliances and utensils, preparing healthier meals is not only easier but will also save you time and money.

A VARDAGEN cook’s knife, a VÖRDA paring knife and some garlic on a bamboo butcher’s block, plus a bowl with mushrooms.

Fast food can be good for you

A handful of freshly sliced vegetables is just as delicious as a handful of processed snacks, and is usually better for you to boot. However, people often go for the packaged snacks just because they’re convenient. With a mandolin, preparing healthy snacks is almost as easy as opening a packet. And a lot more fun.

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A person in blue SANDVIVA waist apron slicing vegetables with an IKEA 365+ mandoline on a beech PROPPMÄTT chopping board.

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The right tools for the job

With the right basic tools like a chopping board and a sharp knife, everyday food prep is easier – and can even be fun. Seriously, is there anything more satisfying than a sharp knife slicing effortlessly through a mushroom? Well, probably - but it’s still pretty satisfying.

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One pot for the lot

A one-pot meal will save you time, energy and washing up. Creating a menu for the week will help you plan your time and avoid all those impulse buys in the grocery store. And while you’re at it, posting your menu on a notice board in the kitchen will let everyone know what to expect. After all, anticipation is part of the enjoyment.

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A person lifts the lid off a stainless steel IKEA 365+ pressure cooker on a hob beside a bamboo APTITLIG chopping board.

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Luscious leftovers

Don't throw those leftovers away or let them go green and fury in the fridge. Fry them up instead. In Sweden, this is called “pyttipanna” – literally “small pieces in a pan” – and is usually crowned with an egg. But you can do whatever you like with your leftovers.

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A VARDAGEN frying pan with pyttipanna and a beech wok spatula on a birch table set with light turquoise FÄRGKLAR plates.

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The oven saves you time

Cooking several things in the oven at the same time is super convenient. Just remember to swap shelves at some point to ensure even browning.

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An open stainless steel SMAKSAK oven with a FÖLJSAM glass oven dish, HEMMABAK roasting tin and other trays with food inside.

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Oven cooking gives you more and less

There’s a lot to be said for cooking in the oven: more nutrients, more flavour, more convenience. On top of that there’s less fat, less supervision, less mess. Add it all up and you’ll find that the oven is a true friend in the kitchen.

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Stainless steel SMAKSAK oven in a kitchen with grey-green BODARP fronts and ÖSTERNÄS leather handles, plus a rail with hooks.

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