Make-ahead spend less, enjoy more.(Advertisement)

Planning ahead always pays off, especially when it comes to preparing meals. As much as we love to cook, creating something new and different every night of the week can feel like an overwhelming chore. When each meal requires its own inspiration, shopping list and all that chopping, slicing and dicing, we can be tempted to reach for the take-out menu and call it dinner.

With Make-Ahead Meals--a series of new recipes and time-saving ideas from GLAD--you can make a great meal in minutes from what you've already prepped and stored in your refrigerator. With the right tools and tips, making two or three meals can be as easy as making one. First, look for recipes that call for some of the same ingredients. Then chop, slice or dice them all at once and refrigerate what you don't use the first night with GLAD Press 'n Seal" sealable plastic wrap. You'll not only enjoy freshness and variety in your meals, but save money, time and energy.

Make preparing meals more efficient with these time- and money-saving tips from GLAD:

MAKE SHOPPING QUICKER

Organizing your shopping list by category makes for one efficient trip down each aisle. If you know your local market well, work your way across the store as you work down your list.

MAKE MENU PLANNING FUN

Get the whole family in on the act of creating great meals. Make a little time to sit down and discuss the week's menus in advance. Including a ...