Cooking doesn’t have to be stressful — it’s all about working smarter, not harder. Here are five simple kitchen hacks that can save you time and energy every day.

1. Pre-chop your veggies: Spend a few extra minutes prepping vegetables in bulk and store them in airtight containers. You’ll thank yourself later when you can throw together meals in minutes.

2. Use ice cube trays for sauces: Freeze leftover sauces, broths, or even lemon juice in ice cube trays — perfect for quick flavor boosts in future dishes.

3. Sharpen your knives regularly: A sharp knife is safer and faster to use. Dull blades cause more accidents than sharp ones!

4. Keep herbs fresh longer: Wrap fresh herbs in a damp paper towel and store them in a ziplock bag in the fridge. They’ll stay green and vibrant for days.

5. Clean as you cook: The best chefs never wait till the end to clean up. Wash and wipe between steps — you’ll finish your meal with a spotless kitchen.

Cooking efficiently isn’t about rushing — it’s about planning ahead and staying organized. Master these small tricks, and you’ll find joy in every moment of the process.