Do you have time to prepare food from scratch? Most people probably think they don’t, but perhaps the better question is, “Do you have time not to?” The way you feel and function is so linked to the way you eat that, unless you are used to eating a clean, healthy diet, you may not know what you are missing—or how well you can actually function. Many corporations are beginning to realize this and have started health incentive programs. Of course, wanting to do something and actually doing it are two different things, so here are some tips to get you going:

1. On your way home, think about what you are going to prepare and the order in which it will be prepared, so you know exactly what has to be done when you walk in the door.

2. Cook to have leftovers. Beans and grains, when lightly salted, will last in the refrigerator for a few days and a meal can be thrown together quickly if they are already done.

3. Make dinner for lunch. Last night’s dinner usually makes a great lunch.

4. Learn how to improvise so you don’t have to run out and buy special ingredients to make a meal. There is no right or wrong. It’s about what you like.

5. Make sure you have staples and spices in the house.

6. Learn to use time-saving tools like a pressure cooker, rice cooker and a crock-pot.

7. Get good sharp knives. Keep them sharp and learn to use them.

Vicki Chelf, Pulp Kitchen