Cooking Tips for Owner-Operators

A balanced and healthy diet can be difficult to maintain as an owner-operator on the road, yet it can be an exciting lifestyle. Making delicious meals can be challenging when your access to a kitchen is limited. Still, it is not impossible. With today’s economy, everyone is looking for ways to save money – truck drivers are no exception. With the expense of eating out, one way a driver can reduce costs while on the road is to prepare their own means. The potential savings could exceed $150 a week. Drivers have several options when prepping premade meals at home before hitting the road.

The Importance of Eating Healthy on the Road

Living on the road already has its own challenges when trying to maintain a healthy diet. With the long hours and limited access to ingredients, hitting a fast-food restaurant may seem the better option. However, healthy eating is important to help you maintain your energy levels, to help you stay alert, and help save money.

Types of Cooking Equipment for Over the Road

To cook while on the road, it is important to have some basic cooking equipment, such as a portable cooker or stove that runs on butane or propane. Also, you could invest in a crockpot, instant pot, waffle maker, etc. Anything that could help make your cooking experience on the road easier. You will also need the basic cooking utensils, cookware, and a mini fridge or cooler to help keep your food fresh.

Food Planning and Prepping

Laying out a menu while you are on the road is important. It helps you from steering away and hitting up a fast-food restaurant. You can create weekly meal plans and shop before hitting the road. Some essentials to shop for include canned food, fresh vegetables, fruits, and dried grains.

Below are some easy recipes for owner-operators

  • One Pot Meals – chili, stir-fries, and pasta dishes.
  • Salads and wraps with pre-cooked chicken.
  • Cold pasta dishes
  • Rice and bean burritos
  • Rotisserie Chicken and Vegetables
  • Hard Boiled Eggs
  • Protein Bars
  • Meal Replacement Shakes
  • Oatmeal with fruit
  • Omelet in a cup
  • Hummus and veggies
  • Beef jerky and cheese sticks
  • Microwave meatloaf
  • Baked potatoes
  • Pot Pie

It is important to eat healthily while out on the road as an owner-operator not only to take a step in maintaining your overall well-being but also because of the benefits beyond personal health. By making these healthy choices, you can enhance your physical and mental well-being and help lower the risks of some health issues.