Top 5 Meal Prep Dishes from a Personal Chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea
As a personal chef based in Carmel-by-the-Sea, I spend much of my week planning, prepping, and cooking meals that are delicious, nourishing, and designed to last. Whether I’m working with families, couples, or busy professionals, meal prep is one of the most requested services in my private chef work. And over time, I’ve developed a few go-to dishes that never fail—flavor-packed, fridge-friendly meals that reheat beautifully.
Here are my top 5 prep meals so far—favorites from both my own kitchen and those of my weekly clients.
1. Boeuf Bourguignon
This French classic remains one of the most requested dishes in my personal chef meal prep menus. The slow-cooked beef, red wine, mushrooms, and pearl onions only deepen in flavor with time. It’s the perfect cozy meal, and ideal for anyone wanting gourmet comfort food during the week.
Why it's a winner:
Hearty and satisfying
Improves after a night in the fridge
Pairs well with mash, noodles, or crusty bread
2. Meatball Marinara with Pasta
There’s something timeless about a perfect meatball. I use a blend of beef and pork for richness, and simmer them in a garlic-laced tomato sauce until tender. Combined with al dente pasta, it’s a meal prep favorite for families and solo diners alike.
Meal prep perks:
Freezes and reheats beautifully
Loved by kids and adults
Customizable with gluten-free or alternative pastas
3. Grilled Herb Chicken with Lemon & Castelvetrano Olives
One of the lighter meals I offer as a private chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is a staple for those seeking balance. The chicken is marinated in herbs and citrus, grilled, then paired with Castelvetrano olives for a savory punch.
Why clients love it:
Bright, fresh flavors
Pairs well with grains, greens, or potatoes
Holds up beautifully for several days
4. Greek Orzo Salad with Feta Sauce & Grilled King Salmon
This dish is a standout in my weekly meal prep service. The Greek orzo salad—loaded with cucumbers, olives, and herbs—is fresh and vibrant. I top it with grilled wild king salmon and a creamy whipped feta sauce that pulls everything together.
Perfect for:
Hot or cold lunches
Easy plating and portioning
High-protein, nutrient-dense meals
5. Roasted Pork Tenderloin with French Mustard Sauce & Green Beans
Elegant yet approachable, this dish shows up often on my menus for private chef clients in the Carmel area. The pork is roasted just until tender and served with a pan sauce made from Dijon mustard and crème fraîche. Green beans add that perfect crisp bite.
Why it works:
Classic French flavor
Great reheated or served at room temp
Simple, wholesome, and satisfying
Whether you're seeking a personal chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea to support your weekly meals or simply need ideas to elevate your own routine, these dishes represent the kind of food I love to cook: thoughtful, seasonal, and deeply flavorful.
If you’re interested in private chef services, meal prep plans, or a custom in-home dining experience, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to cook for you.