How to Pack and Reheat Your Will's Cookery Meals for the Office

For many Columbia professionals, lunch breaks offer a welcome pause in the workday—but all too often, they're spent with disappointing takeout or bland leftovers. Will's Cookery customers enjoy something different: restaurant-quality meals that taste just as good at the office as they do at home.

In this guide, we'll share our best practices for packing, storing, and reheating your Will's Cookery meals for maximum flavor and enjoyment during your busy workday.

In This Article

• Essential Container and Packing Tips
• Best Reheating Methods by Dish Type
• How to Keep Side Dishes Fresh
• Creating a Complete Office Meal Experience
• Planning Your Weekly Office Meals

Essential Container and Packing Tips

The foundation of a successful office meal starts with proper containers and packing techniques. While our meals come in microwave-safe containers, transferring them to specialized containers can enhance your experience.

Choosing the Right Containers

For office meals, consider investing in:

• Glass containers with compartments - Perfect for separating sides from main dishes
• Insulated food jars - Ideal for soups and stews that should stay warm
• Bento-style boxes - Great for meals with multiple components

"I've been bringing Will's Cookery to my downtown law office for months. The glass containers with locking lids have been a game-changer—no more leaks in my work bag!" — Sarah, Shandon resident

Packing Order Matters

When transferring your meal:

1. Always cool completely before packing to prevent condensation
2. Layer strategically with sauces on the bottom to prevent sogginess
3. Keep fresh garnishes separate in small containers to add after reheating
4. Use parchment paper dividers between components that shouldn't touch

Many Columbia professionals prepare their containers the night before, making mornings less hectic.

Best Reheating Methods by Dish Type

Different dishes require different reheating approaches to maintain their flavor and texture. Here's our guide based on dish type:

Pasta Dishes

For pasta dishes like our Chicken Fricassée:

• Microwave Method: 60-70% power for 2 minutes, stir, then 30-second intervals until heated through
• Add: A small sprinkle of water before reheating to restore moisture
• Avoid: High power settings that can toughen proteins

Protein-Centered Meals

For protein dishes like our Herb-Roasted Salmon:

• Microwave Method: 70% power in 30-second intervals
• Add: A damp paper towel over the top to maintain moisture
• Best bet: If your office has a toaster oven, use that instead for a superior result

Rice and Grain Bowls

For rice-based dishes:

• Microwave Method: Add a few drops of water, cover loosely, heat at 70% power
• Stir: Halfway through for even heating
• Rest: Let stand for one minute before eating to distribute heat

How to Keep Side Dishes Fresh

Side dishes often present the biggest challenge for office meals. Here's how to keep each type at its best:

Salads and Fresh Vegetables

• Pack dressings separately in small containers
• Layer ingredients with heartier vegetables at the bottom
• Add a paper towel to absorb excess moisture
• Dress just before eating

Bread and Starches

• Wrap bread items separately in foil
• Reheat bread briefly after warming the main dish
• For crispy items like garlic bread, bring a silicone mat to place under the item in the toaster oven

Sauces and Condiments

• Transfer sauces to small, secure containers
• Warm sauces separately when possible
• For cream-based sauces, reheat at very low power, stirring frequently

Creating a Complete Office Meal Experience

Transform your desk into a dining experience with these simple additions:

• Real cutlery instead of plastic utensils
• Cloth napkin for an upgraded feel
• Small salt and pepper grinders
• Portable placemat for a clean eating surface
• Insulated coffee mug for keeping beverages at proper temperature

These small touches make a big difference in how you experience your meal, turning a quick lunch into a mindful break in your day.

Planning Your Weekly Office Meals

Many of our Brandon Acres and Rosewood customers plan their office meals strategically throughout the week:

• Monday and Tuesday: Lighter dishes that energize without causing afternoon sluggishness
• Wednesday: Comfort food to help get through mid-week
• Thursday and Friday: Protein-rich meals that sustain afternoon productivity

When ordering your weekly Will's Cookery meals, consider:

1. Which dishes travel and reheat best
2. Which meals you'll eat at home vs. office
3. How to incorporate variety throughout your week

The ContainIt Pro food container set has been a customer favorite for office meal transport, with leakproof seals and microwave-safe materials.

<div class="bg-amber-100 p-6 rounded-lg my-10 text-center border border-amber-200 shadow-sm"> <h3 class="text-xl font-bold mb-3">Ready to Enjoy Restaurant-Quality Lunches at Work?</h3> <p class="mb-4">Order this week's Will's Cookery menu by Sunday evening to have delicious lunches ready for your workweek.</p> <a href="/menu" class="bg-amber-600 text-white px-5 py-2 rounded-full font-medium hover:bg-amber-700 transition-colors">View This Week's Menu</a> </div>

With these tips, your office meals will be the envy of coworkers and provide a bright spot in your workday. Remember, just a little preparation ensures your Will's Cookery meals taste just as delicious at your desk as they do at your dining table.

Do you have additional tips for enjoying Will's Cookery meals at the office? Share them with us during your next pickup, and we may feature your ideas in a future blog post!