“People Are Obsessed With These Japanese Side Dishes”: The Best Meal Prep Hack for Busy Weekdays”

Introduction (Japanese Side Dishes)

Before talking about Japanese side dishes…
Let’s be honest—meal prep can sometimes feel like a chore. You start the week with high hopes, promising yourself that this will be the week you eat healthy, balanced meals. And yet, by Wednesday, you’re staring into your fridge, wondering if a handful of baby carrots and a slice of cheese count as dinner. (Spoiler: They do not.)

Japanese side dishes will become your secret weapon to making meal prep Sunday not only easier but deliciously exciting. Unlike the usual bland, reheated leftovers, Japanese side dishes (or okazu, if you want to impress your friends) are packed with umami, designed to stay fresh, and versatile enough to pair with just about anything.

If you’re prepping for busy workdays, putting together a stunning bento box, or just trying to add some variety to your meals, these three Japanese side dishes will make your weekly meal prep days easier. Bonus? They’re healthy, easy to store, and can be eaten cold or hot.

Here’s what’s on the menu:

• Ramen Eggs (Ajitsuke Tamago) – Because soft-boiled eggs soaked in a savory marinade can turn even a sad desk lunch into a gourmet experience.
• Tuna Mayo Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) – A creamy, savory rice ball that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking.
• Spinach Gomaae (Sesame Spinach Salad) – A nutrient-packed, umami-rich side that adds freshness and depth to any meal.

Ramen Eggs (Ajitsuke Tamago)

Soft-boiled eggs with a jammy yolk, marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and dashi—Ramen Eggs are a flavor bomb waiting to happen. They’re commonly served atop a steaming bowl of ramen, but they’re just as good as a protein-packed snack or sliced over rice.

• Perfect for meal prep—they get even tastier the longer they marinate.
• Adds a burst of umami to any meal.
• Picky eaters? Kids love them too!

What Ramen Eggs Pair Well With

• A simple bowl of Japanese rice (because sometimes, less is more).
• Bento boxes—a perfect protein addition.
• Salads—slice them over a fresh bowl of greens for an instant upgrade.

Tuna Mayo Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

One of the most popular onigiri flavors in Japan, Tuna Mayo Onigiri is a simple yet delicious combination of rice, seasoned tuna, and creamy Japanese mayo, all wrapped in a sheet of crispy nori. These rice balls are portable, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

• Great make-ahead snack—store them in the fridge or freezer.
• Balanced flavors—savory, creamy, and just the right amount of umami.
• No utensils required—just grab and go!

What Tuna Mayo Onigiri Pair Well With

• Miso soup—a classic Japanese pairing.
• Grilled fish—a light but filling combination.
• Japanese curry—a fun way to switch up your usual curry rice.

Related article : 6 Popular Onigiri Fillings from Japan

Sesame Spinach Salad (Spinach Gomaae)

This simple yet satisfying dish is made with blanched spinach tossed in a nutty sesame dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and the perfect contrast to heavier main dishes.

• Healthy & nutrient-packed—great for a balanced diet.
• Stays fresh in the fridge for several days, making it ideal for meal prep.
• A great way to add greens to your bento or dinner plate.

What Sesame Spinach Salad Pairs Well With

• Teriyaki chicken—the sweetness of the glaze balances the nuttiness of the sesame dressing.
• Grilled tofu—for a light, vegetarian-friendly meal.
• Sushi rolls—because sushi + greens = perfection.

Meal prep Sunday doesn’t have to mean sad, soggy leftovers. With these Japanese side dishes, you’ll add bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and exciting textures to your meals—all while keeping things quick and easy.

So, are you ready to give your meal prep a Japanese twist? Let me know which dish you’re most excited to try!

Frequently Asked Questions about Japanese Side Dishes