Three no fuss healthy meal ideas for cooking on-the-go
For some people, family holidays are a time of relaxation - a chance to escape day-to-day routines and unwind.
Yet for others, holidays are an opportunity for adventure and exploration.
If you belong in the latter category, then you probably want to pack as many activities as possible into your itinerary.
Whether you want to spend your days surfing and snorkelling in Port Douglas or plan to take the kids to the theme parks on the Gold Coast, it's a good idea to make time to eat healthy, nourishing meals.
Snacking on fast food or sweet treats may be an easy option, but chances are it won't keep you and the kids energised - and you'll need all the energy you can get to take on a busy day!
Fortunately, we've come to your rescue with three no-fuss healthy meal ideas for cooking on-the-go.
Stay in a holiday apartment and make use of fully equipped kitchens by whipping up one of these easy healthy meals!
Breakfast: Creamy blueberry & maple syrup porridge
Want something nice and filling for breakfast but don't have the time to flip 20 pancakes? Cook a big batch of creamy blueberry and maple syrup porridge instead.
Oats are cheap and cheerful, as well as low GI, which means they will give you the energy to keep on going and going.
They taste a bit bland by themselves, so cook them in milk and add a dash of cream to give them a lovely, creamy texture.
Once cooked, mix in a hearty handful of blueberries (fresh or frozen) and a swirl of real maple syrup. This will take oats from boring and bland to colourful and sweet!
For extra sweetness, add brown sugar or some dried fruit. A dollop of Greek yoghurt on the top also goes down a treat!
"These healthy meal ideas are hassle free and quick to prepare, leaving more time for your family to relax and enjoy the local activities on offer."
Lunch: Spinach and feta filo pie & fresh fruit
Save money on holiday by packing everyone lunch in the morning before you head out for the day.
A great, quick lunch to whip up the night before is a spinach and feta filo pie. Simply buy filo pastry from a local supermarket (ask our friendly reception staff about one near you), add spinach, feta and any other ingredients you may desire (such as eggs or bacon) and pop in the oven.
This is delicious eaten cold and can be sliced and wrapped in tinfoil before you leave the house.
If you use eggs the protein will keep your family going, while the spinach will be good for their vegetable intake!
It's also a good idea to pack some fresh fruit and muesli bars to snack on throughout the day.
Dinner: Bean burritos with a mega-green salad
You've just got back to your Mantra apartment and you're ready to collapse in front of the television before catching up on some much-needed sleep - only you're starving!
Resist the urge to run out and spend a fortune on oily takeout, and instead whip up a quick and healthy dinner.
When you want something fast and satisfying, you can't go past home-made Mexican food.
Stock up on wraps, beans, tinned tomatoes and plenty of fresh vegetables, as well as some cheese and spices, to make burritos.
All you have to do is lightly fry the beans in some tinned tomatoes and spices, and then lay out the other ingredients on the table.
The kids can pick their own fillings, and cleaning up will be a breeze. If you have a little extra time on your hands, add mince to the beans and make a big mega-green salad using baby spinach, rocket, lettuce and other leafy greens.
Follow with some ice cream or frozen yoghurt for dessert and you're all set!