If you're like us, you've tried a few meal kits over the last year.

And, like us, you also may have been disappointed by some of them: repetitive dishes, missing ingredients each week, or recipes that took 4 hours from prep to plate. We are not exaggerating.

However, we know too many people who absolutely love the convenience and ease of home cooking that meal kits provide, so we wanted to cut through the trial and error process for our readers and test out these kits one-by-one ourselves.

Over the testing period, we found that there's a meal kit out there for every type of household and price point. But understanding that a lot of people are getting ready for summer and revamping their eating habits after a long, difficult COVID winter, we wanted to focus on two specific kits that regularly hype up their wholesome recipes and high-quality ingredients: Green Chef and Blue Apron.

The pressure's on - and so's the oven! Let's get after it and see which plan comes out on top.

Key Similarities

  • Both deliver pre-portioned fresh ingredients, colorful recipe cards with step-by-step instructions
  • Both are subscription-based meal kits delivery services: pause, adjust, or opt-out at any time
  • Both conveniently deliver right to your doorstep

Key Differences

  • Blue Apron's locally sourced ingredients are non-GMO but not exclusively organic | Green Chef's products are USDA Organic Certified
  • Blue Apron has 2 meal plans: Vegetarian and Signature | Green Chef has 4: Balanced Living, Keto & Paleo, Plant-Powered, and Gluten-Free
  • Blue Apron has 7 recipes a week to choose from | Green Chef has 9
  • Blue Apron's recipes take 30 - 50 minutes to cook | Green Chef's minimal prep takes 30 minutes or less
  • Blue Apron's packaging is plastic-heavy | Green Chef offsets 100% of carbon emissions and plastic packaging from every box!
  • Blue Apron starts at $9.99 a serving | Green Chef's meals start at $11.99

Green Chef Overview

We appreciate their chef-curated, international cuisine choices like Steak & Cheddar Melts with kale salad and carrots, dried figs, & white-wine vinaigrette and Japanese Vegetable Fritters with ginger-sriracha aïoli, broccoli & cashews, and rice with edamame. Variety isn't only the spice of life . . . it teases the palate and keeps the menu interesting.

Green Chef provides a really affordable way to consume more local, sustainably sourced produce, and we've all come to realize the importance of that. The cost per serving - especially with a new customer discount - is far less than organic markets, and with their pre-portioned ingredients, there's far less food waste.

Customers love the culinary choices and high-quality produce Green Chef delivers. On a Keto, Paleo, or plant-powered diet? Green Chef's there for you, offering 9 different meals for each plan. Say bye-bye to boredom!

Blue Apron Overview

Blue Apron's boxes arrive and they are simply lovely. All ingredients are laid out practically, but cooking time can take up to twice as long to plate because the recipes are often complex, including two or three separate sauces or dressings. All these extra steps lead to more dishes and pans, which can lead to a messy sink at the end of the night.

In other words, this isn't ideal for novices and busy moms, though it's perfect for someone who has time on their hands and wants to polish their cooking skills.

Despite tasty meals like Garlic-Caper Chicken with Fettuccine and Zucchini and Miso-Butter Steaks and Rice with Carrots and Bok Choy, we burnt out on Blue Apron rather quickly. With only 7 dishes a week to choose from, we found ourselves gravitating to the same types of dishes (pasta) instead of trying new things that we were excited about.

Plus, all too often a bag of limp yellowing kale would arrive. One week, 2 out of 3 meals featured kale. Enough said.

Final Notes

Green Chef's superior organic food and minimal prep put them way ahead of Blue Apron in our books. Add in the pre-measured portions which help you stick to your diet, and the choice is clear.

Green Chef is the clear crowd favorite for convenience, easy instructions, and overall presentation. We appreciated Green Chef's fresh ingredients, amazing customer service, and the variety of their gourmet meals. Plus, there are more plans available tailored to specific diets, which makes Green Chef more inclusive than Blue Apron.

While Blue Apron is definitely a contender in the war of meal kits, Green Chef's got it beat.

So there you are. Get Green Chef and get cooking! Remember, the oven's on.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY SPECIAL: Our friends at Green Chef are extending a limited-time offer to our readers! Follow this link to get $100 off across four boxes, including FREE shipping on the first box!

Have you heard that around 95% of dieters just give up?

With this in mind, we wanted to see if using Nutrisystem can turn things around. Nutrisystem is one of the most well-known weight loss programs in the country.

But even with its reputation, many people doubt that the food is actually as good as they say, and that it's just that easy to stay on track. What may look easy enough is not always replicable in real life, and there are a lot of programs that are often misleading and hard to follow.

With so many weight loss programs out there, we wanted to see if Nutrisystem was the best of the best. Here's what we found.

A common concern that many face when starting a weight loss program is the need to count calories. Not only is it time consuming, but it's difficult to know the right amounts, and how much that can change. The great thing about Nutrisystemis that it does all the calorie-counting for you. The plans are designed by nutrition experts, and provide you with the right balance of nutrients and the right amount of calories to help you lose weight safely.

Their strategy is to change the way we perceive food and to deliver fully prepared meals full of balanced nutrition. With Nutrisystem, your meal times become more structured without losing variety. Nutrisystem sends a monthly shipment that includes three meals and a snack a day. All the meals are quick and easy to prepare, with many meals ready in minutes.

Nutrisystem
New Year, New You!

Limited Time Offer, Act Now:
Save 50% Off Nutrisystem!

A tasty and nutritious breakfast suddenly becomes easy when you have options like Nutrisystem's buttermilk waffles and chocolate granola. All you need to do is follow the perfectly portioned meal plan and you can lose up to 18 pounds in your first month, plus a 14 day money-back guarantee if you don't like your progress after two weeks. It works because there's no room for error. Nutrisystem has designed every meal with science in mind. This is why each Nutrisystem meal is powered with ProSync™, their high-protein, low-glycemic approach to weight loss, to give you all the necessary tools to learn how to achieve lasting results.

The second concern that people have about weight loss programs is that they won't be able to eat their favorite foods anymore. But Nutrisystem doesn't take all the pleasure out of eating.

Unlike traditional unhealthy comfort foods, Nutrisystem's meals don't sacrifice taste and are still fantastic ways to get needed lean protein, fiber, and complex carbs. Nutrisystem® pizzas and mac & cheese help keep you feeling full and make sure you're getting all the nutrients you need, so you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue to achieve your weight loss goals.

Some people can exercise all the time and still not lose weight. With Nutrisystem, you don't have to worry about excessive exercising to shed pounds. It turns out, studies have found that you're more likely to lose weight by cutting down food than by increasing exercise.

Nutrisystemrecommends just three 10 minute exercises a day, so you won't need to go to a gym. If you focus on following the Nutrisystem® plan, you will have everything you need to be a healthier you.

Nutrisystem exceeded our expectations, was more affordable than other programs, and best of all, helps work in savory, filling, and nutritious meals into our busy lives. Nutrisystem is an amazing program for those looking for an easy-to-follow, comprehensive plan to lose weight.

UPDATE: The awesome folks at Nutrisystem are extending a special offer to our readers.Sale Ends Soon: Follow this link to Save 50% Off Nutrisystem!

This content is sponsored by Nutrisystem.

Nutrisystem is one of the most well-known weight loss programs in the world. But even with its reputation, many people doubt that the food is actually as good as it's claimed to be and that it's super simple to stay on track. What can look easy enough is not always replicable in real life. There are so many weight loss programs out there, so we wanted to see if Nutrisystem was the best of the best. Here's what we found.

A common concern that many faces when starting a weight loss program is the need to count calories. Not only is it time-consuming, but it's difficult to know the right guidelines to stick to. We're not all nutrition experts, but just need valuable tips to be able to meet our goals. The great thing about Nutrisystem is that it does all the calorie-counting for you. The plans are designed by nutrition experts and provide you with the right balance of nutrients and the right amount of calories to help you lose weight safely.

Nutrisystem
Spring Sale Happening Now!

Limited Time Offer, For Our Readers:
Save 50% OFF A Month Of Nutrisystem Meals + Shakes!

Their strategy is to make meal-time regimented but also filled with variety. Nutrisystem sends a monthly shipment that includes three meals and a snack a day. All the meals are quick to prepare, and a delicious breakfast is as easy as grabbing a snack bar or muffin on your way out the door. All you need to do is follow the perfectly portioned meal plan, and you're guaranteed to lose up to 13 pounds in your first month, or your money back. It works because there's no room for error. Nutrisystem is designed to give you all the necessary tools to see results.

The second concern that people have about weight loss programs is that they won't be able to eat their favorite foods anymore. But Nutrisystem doesn't take all the pleasure out of eating. Unlike traditional unhealthy comfort foods, Nutrisystem® pizzas and mac & cheese are balanced with complex carbs, lean protein, and fiber without sacrificing taste. They help keep you feeling full and make sure you're getting all the nutrients you need, so you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue to achieve your weight loss goals.

The last concern has to do with exercise. Many people simply don't have the time to workout every day. But it turns out, you don't need to exercise to lose weight on the Nutrisystem plan. In fact, studies have found that you're more likely to lose weight by cutting calories than by increasing exercise. So don't worry that your physical limitations are going to stand in the way of your weight loss goals.

Nutrisystem recommends just three 10 minute exercises a day, so you won't need to live in a gym. If you focus on following the Nutrisystem® plan, you will have everything you need to be a healthier you.

Nutrisystem exceeded our expectations, and we're convinced it's a great program for those looking for a comprehensive plan to lose weight.

UPDATE: The awesome folks at Nutrisystem are extending a special offer to our readers.
Nutrisystem Spring Sale: Save 50% OFF A Month Of Meals + Shakes!

This content is sponsored by Nutrisystem.

Nutrisystem is one of the most well-known weight loss programs in the world. But even with its reputation, many people doubt that the food is actually as good as it's claimed to be and that it's super simple to stay on track. What can look easy enough is not always replicable in real life. There are so many weight loss programs out there, so we wanted to see if Nutrisystem was the best of the best. Here's what we found.

A common concern that many faces when starting a weight loss program is the need to count calories. Not only is it time-consuming, but it's difficult to know the right guidelines to stick to. We're not all nutrition experts, but just need valuable tips to be able to meet our goals. The great thing about Nutrisystem is that it does all the calorie-counting for you. The plans are designed by nutrition experts and provide you with the right balance of nutrients and the right amount of calories to help you lose weight safely.

Nutrisystem
New Year, New You!

Take Control of Your Diet Today
Save 50% Off Nutrisystem Meals & Shakes

Their strategy is to make meal-time regimented but also filled with variety. Nutrisystem sends a monthly shipment that includes three meals and a snack a day. All the meals are quick to prepare, and a delicious breakfast is as easy as grabbing a snack bar or muffin on your way out the door. All you need to do is follow the perfectly portioned meal plan, and you're guaranteed to lose up to 13 pounds in your first month, or your money back. It works because there's no room for error. Nutrisystem is designed to give you all the necessary tools to see results.

The second concern that people have about weight loss programs is that they won't be able to eat their favorite foods anymore. But Nutrisystem doesn't take all the pleasure out of eating. Unlike traditional unhealthy comfort foods, Nutrisystem® pizzas and mac & cheese are balanced with complex carbs, lean protein, and fiber without sacrificing taste. They help keep you feeling full and make sure you're getting all the nutrients you need, so you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue to achieve your weight loss goals.

The last concern has to do with exercise. Many people simply don't have the time to workout every day. But it turns out, you don't need to exercise to lose weight on the Nutrisystem plan. In fact, studies have found that you're more likely to lose weight by cutting calories than by increasing exercise. So don't worry that your physical limitations are going to stand in the way of your weight loss goals. Nutrisystem recommends just three 10 minute exercises a day, so you won't need to live in a gym. If you focus on following the Nutrisystem® plan, you will have everything you need to be a healthier you.

Nutrisystem exceeded our expectations, and we're convinced it's a great program for those looking for a comprehensive plan to lose weight.

UPDATE: The awesome folks at Nutrisystem are extending a special offer to our readers.
Follow this link to Save 50% Off Nutrisystem Meals & Shakes!

This content is sponsored by Nutrisystem.

We’ve heard it all from viral diet fads to complete lifestyle changes - all in the pursuit of weight loss. What we haven’t heard of is a weight loss program that works with delicious meals… until we came across Nutrisystem.

Nutrisystem has been around for 50 years, becoming one of the most well-known weight loss programs in the country.

Even with all the success stories and encouraging reviews, there’s still some doubt around whether their weight loss program is as successful as they say. Are Nutrisystem’s meals really that good? Is their program actually simpler than others out there?

We wanted to see if Nutrisystem was the best of the best. Here's what we found.

A common concern that many face when starting a weight loss program is the need to count calories. While “calorie amount” is important in a diet, calorie-counting can be time consuming, and knowing the right amounts and how much that can change is difficult. Nutrisystem’s plans are designed by nutrition experts, and provide you with the right balance of nutrients and the right amount of calories to help you lose weight safely - simply eat the food and lose the weight.

Their strategy is to change the way we perceive food and to deliver fully prepared meals full of balanced nutrition. With Nutrisystem, your meal times become more structured without losing variety thanks to their 160+ menu items. Nutrisystem sends a monthly shipment that includes all your meals and snacks, so you’re eating six times a day. All the meals are quick and easy to prepare, with many meals ready in minutes.

A tasty and nutritious breakfast suddenly becomes easy when you have options like Nutrisystem’s buttermilk waffles and chocolate granola. All you need to do is follow the perfectly portioned meal plan, plus a 14 day money-back guarantee.

It works because Nutrisystem has designed every meal with science in mind. Nutrisystem’s approach is powered by high-protein with lower-glycemic nutrition to help control hunger and keep your blood sugar steady.

The second concern that people have about weight loss programs is that they won't be able to eat their favorite foods anymore. But unlike other weight loss programs, Nutrisystem doesn't take all the pleasure out of eating.

Unlike traditional unhealthy comfort foods, Nutrisystem's meals deliver tons of taste and a fantastic way to get the lean proteins, fiber, and complex carbs your body needs. Even better, Nutrisystem® now offers new premium meals packed with up to 30 grams of protein. We’re talking Grain-Crusted Fish with Vegetables, Lemon Caper Chicken and Merlot Beef—just to name a few! Not only are they totally delicious, but these premium meals also leave you feeling full and satisfied, while you lose weight. We are truly blown away by the quality of everything we tried from their new and improved 2022 menu. No program out there makes it this easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue to achieve your weight loss goals.

Some people can exercise all the time and still not lose weight. With Nutrisystem, you don't have to worry about excessive exercising to shed pounds. It turns out, studies have found that you're more likely to lose weight by cutting down food than by increasing exercise.

To get the most out of their program, Nutrisystem recommends just three 10-minute intervals of light exercise each day—so you won't need to worry about sweating for hours at the gym. With their plans your meals are planned, prepared, and ready to eat in under a few minutes. You’ll find yourself with more time to plan a work out or take a break from your busy day. If you focus on following the Nutrisystem® plan, you’ve got everything you need to be a healthier you.

Nutrisystem exceeded our expectations, was more affordable than other programs, and best of all, helps work in savory, filling, and nutritious meals into our busy lives. Nutrisystem is an amazing program for those looking for an easy-to-follow, comprehensive plan to lose weight.

UPDATE: The awesome folks at Nutrisystem are extending a special offer to our readers.Nutrisystem’s special offer for new customers: Get 40% off your weight loss plan!

This content is sponsored by Nutrisystem.

www.popdust.com

Ever wonder how successful, on-the-go influencers are able to do it all and still find the time to make a wholesome, home cooked meal everyday? Something doesn't quite add up there, right? It's all about being prepared -- but who has the time? We're here to let you in on a little secret: meal kits. These little boxes of heaven are changing the way busy people everywhere eat dinner, and there's one that stands miles above the rest. There's a reason why everybody is talking about HelloFresh. It's a convenient meal kit subscription that offers a ton of delicious recipes that are easy to make and absolutely delicious. Got questions? We get it. Here's all of your burning questions about what it's really like to use HelloFresh, answered.

Why A Meal Kit?

Who wants the stress of having to go grocery shopping, do recipe research and then meal prep on top of that? No one! HelloFresh can give you all of that home cooked goodness -- without the stress and hours of prep. They send you perfectly portioned ingredients and detailed recipe cards that allow you to make a delicious home cooked meal from scratch, and most meals take around 30 minutes. If you're trying to channel your inner MasterChef and develop your cooking skills, you can opt for delicious gourmet options, like Sirloin Steak and Mustard Shallot Cream Sauce that take only 40 minutes. Or if you're in a hurry, they have quicker, 20 minute options like the Pulled Pork Fiesta Bowl -- fresh food, fast without the guilt of fast food.

Is It Better For Me And Cheaper Than Takeout?

Yes and yes. Every week, HelloFresh lets you choose from 17 wordly recipes that include a wide variety of fresh produce. All of the nutritional information is listed on their website, so you'll always be able to keep track of exactly what you're eating if you're counting calories. The recipes are all curated by chefs and you can see how highly they are rated by the customers who have tried them before. Their robust menu features both vegetarian and calorie smart options, like Mediterranean Baked Veggies that has just 500 calories per serving -- a third of your go-to Chinese take out. Plus, meals start from just $6.99 a person!

What Are People Saying?

Customers leave a ton of positive reviews, because they really have something for everyone. They even offer Veggie and Family plans, so it's no wonder HelloFresh has become a staple in so many influencers' daily lives.

Subscription? I'm scared.

Don't be!! HelloFresh is designed to make your life easier. You'll never have to worry about having ingredients to make dinner, plus the pre portioned ingredients means less food waste. You control everything from what recipes you get, to when your box will be delivered. Plus, you can switch up or pause your plan at any time, so a subscription is nothing to fear!

There you have it: HelloFresh is the secret to eating home cooked meals when you're stuck for time. There's always new and exciting recipes to try, and they have options for the whole family. Sometimes, things are popular for a reason. When it comes to HelloFresh, you've heard so much about it because it works! It's America's #1 meal kit because people can depend on it to provide fresh, quality meals every week.

Update: The folks at HelloFresh are extending a special offer to our readers! Follow this link to get 8 meals free and free delivery!