Can I Prep Sustainable Sheet Pan Dinners Ahead?

Absolutely! My Sunday "power hour" often includes prepping a few sheet pan dinners for the week. Chop veggies and store them dry in containers—they'll keep beautifully for 2-3 days. Keep proteins separate in the fridge, then toss everything together right before baking. The only no-no? Pre-mixing everything—the salt draws out moisture and makes veggies soggy.

What’s the Best Protein for Sustainability?

My sustainability ranking: 1) Plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh (lowest environmental impact) 2) Sustainable fish like sardines or mackerel 3) Chicken thighs (smaller carbon footprint than beef). But honestly? The most sustainable protein is whatever prevents waste in YOUR fridge—those last two chicken breasts need love too!

Can I Use Frozen Veggies?

Yes—but thaw and pat them dry first! Frozen veggies release water when baking, so I spread them on a paper towel while preheating the oven. They won't get as crispy as fresh, but still taste delicious. Pro tip: Mix frozen and fresh for best texture. Learn more about food safety when handling produce.

How Do I Prevent Sticking Without Parchment?

If you're out of parchment, rub the pan with a thin layer of olive oil and sprinkle with cornmeal or breadcrumbs—creates a nonstick surface that adds crunch! Just avoid cooking acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus) directly on bare metal—they can react and make cleanup miserable.

Sustainable Sheet Pan Dinners That Foolproof Your Weeknights

Description

Easy and eco-friendly sheet pan dinners that save time and reduce waste.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
1 lb protein (chicken, tofu, or fish)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss vegetables and protein with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Spread evenly on a sheet pan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until protein is cooked through.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Use seasonal vegetables for better flavor and sustainability.
Line the sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Global