Some nights, I love spending time in the kitchen. Other nights, I just want dinner ready before someone says they’re hungry again. That’s where Tesco comes in. Over the past few months, I’ve discovered a handful of clever products that make meal prep faster, easier, and way less stressful.
Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just don’t fancy spending all evening cooking, these Tesco finds will help you get a proper meal on the table in no time.
Tesco Ready-Cut Stir-Fry Vegetables
No more endless chopping. Tesco’s pre-cut stir-fry mixes are packed with fresh veg like carrots, peppers, and bean sprouts, all ready to toss straight into a pan. They stay crisp when cooked and taste freshly cut — not soggy or tired.
I love throwing them in with chicken or tofu and one of Tesco’s stir-fry sauces for a dinner that’s done in under ten minutes. It’s fresh, colourful, and saves at least fifteen minutes of prep time.
Tesco Pre-Cooked Grains and Rice Pouches
If you’re still boiling rice for 20 minutes, you’re working too hard. Tesco’s microwave grain and rice pouches are game changers — perfectly cooked, ready in 90 seconds, and come in varieties like quinoa, wild rice, and basmati.
I mix them with roasted veggies or leftover chicken for an instant lunch. They’re also perfect for making quick burrito bowls or side dishes. No washing up, no mess, just fluffy rice every single time.
Tesco Cooked Chicken Breast Pieces
These are my secret weapon for lazy weeknight dinners. Tesco’s pre-cooked chicken is tender, versatile, and surprisingly juicy — not dry like some other brands. It’s ready to toss into wraps, salads, or pasta.
I like to use it in creamy chicken Alfredo or Caesar salads when I want something filling but can’t face cooking meat. It cuts at least 20 minutes of cooking and cleaning time, and you’d never guess it wasn’t freshly made.
Tesco Garlic and Herb Paste Tubes
Forget peeling and mincing garlic every night. Tesco’s garlic and herb pastes give you all the flavour without the faff. A quick squeeze from the tube adds instant depth to soups, sauces, and marinades.
They last for ages in the fridge and save me from dealing with sticky chopping boards and garlic-scented fingers. It’s one of those tiny kitchen hacks that you can’t imagine living without once you’ve tried it.
Tesco Fresh Pasta
Fresh pasta cooks in just a few minutes, and Tesco’s range is delicious — from spinach and ricotta tortellini to tagliatelle. It’s soft, flavourful, and tastes like it came from a restaurant, not a packet.
I pair it with Tesco’s Finest pasta sauces for an easy dinner that feels special but takes under 10 minutes. It’s the perfect “I can’t be bothered to cook” meal that still feels homemade.
Tesco Chopped Onions and Peppers (Frozen)
These might be the most underrated items in Tesco’s freezer section. Pre-chopped onions and peppers are a huge time-saver for soups, omelettes, fajitas — you name it. They go straight from freezer to pan and taste freshly chopped.
They save so much washing up, and I never have to cry over an onion again. It’s one of those small swaps that makes a big difference during busy evenings.
Tesco Ready-Made Marinades and Sauces
Tesco’s sauces take the guesswork out of seasoning. From teriyaki to tikka masala, they’re full of flavour and make any simple protein taste amazing. I love using them to transform plain chicken or prawns into a meal that tastes like it took effort.
It’s as simple as pouring, cooking, and serving. The time saved on mixing spices and tasting sauces adds up — and honestly, no one will know the difference.
Tesco Microwave Steam Bags of Veg
Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean extra effort. These little microwave steam bags are portioned, perfectly seasoned, and ready in three minutes. The veg comes out bright and crisp, not mushy like some frozen versions.
They’re perfect for quick sides or adding colour to any meal. I keep a few bags in the freezer for those nights when I realise I’ve forgotten to make something green.
The Takeaway
Meal prep doesn’t have to feel like a chore. These Tesco finds make it easy to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. From ready-chopped vegetables to pre-cooked grains, every one of these shortcuts saves time without sacrificing flavour. Because sometimes, the smartest cooking move is knowing when to take the shortcut.
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