Maintaining a healthy and affordable diet on long hauls can be a daily challenge. Truck stops and fast food chains? Convenient, but costly – not just for your wallet, but for your health.
Angel Benzant, owner-operator of Benzant Logistics Corp, takes a different approach. Angel has transformed his trucking lifestyle by incorporating healthy meal prep into his routine. His blend of discipline, creativity and practical advice proves that even on the road, it’s possible to eat healthier while saving money and maximizing efficiency.
What made you start cooking on the road?
“I had two key reasons: Health and finances,” says Angel, who runs demanding flatbed and step deck routes. “I might spend $50-$60 at Walmart for an entire week of groceries. Compare that to spending $15-$20 per meal on the road. The savings alone make it worth it.”
But his commitment to health goes beyond saving money.
“I stay mindful of what I eat,” Angel says. “I focus on lean proteins and keep my carbs in check. I even practice intermittent fasting, meaning I don’t eat until 1 or 2 p.m. That also reduces intake and saves additional money.”
“I even practice intermittent fasting, meaning I don’t eat until 1 or 2 p.m. That also reduces intake and saves additional money.”
How do you handle meal prep while on the road?
Angel’s schedule is primarily regional routes, allowing him to be home on weekends. He takes part of the weekend to ready himself for the next week.
“If I choose to stay out a weekend for a big pay load, I’ll stop at Walmart for groceries, pull out my portable stove and cook on the truck while doing my 34 hour rest.”
By planning ahead, Angel avoids unhealthy temptations and maintains his focus on the road.
Tips for staying consistent and healthy
There’s a common myth, that truck driving inevitably leads to weight gain. Angel argues it can be the opposite.
“It’s actually easier to maintain a healthy diet on the truck,” he says. “Unlike an office job with constant temptations like pizza parties or coworkers offering snacks, being in the truck eliminates those distractions. Staying consistent is the key.”
That consistency comes through planning, Angel says.
“Most drivers slip up because they don’t have food on hand,” he says. “At truck stops, your options are limited to what’s convenient. If your meals are ready and packed, you won’t be tempted by a big bag of chips or a sugary soda.”
“If your meals are ready and packed, you won’t be tempted by a big bag of chips or a sugary soda.”
Must-have cooking gear for truck drivers
Having the right tools is essential for meal prep on the go. Angel recommends starting with an inverter, which powers appliances in the truck. “If your truck doesn’t have an inverter, get one. It’s needed for all electronics.”
Here’s Angel’s list of other must-haves for a well-equipped truck kitchen:
- Microwave: Perfect for reheating meals or preparing simple ingredients like rice
- Toaster: Ideal for sandwiches or quick options
- Coffee Maker: A must-have for fresh, affordable coffee on the road
- Air Fryer (optional): Great for versatile cooking without extra oil
Angel’s go-to recipe for meal prep
When it comes to cooking, Angel keeps it simple and delicious. His favorite? A New York strip Angus steak.
Here’s how he preps it:
- Drizzle olive oil on the steak
- Season generously with garlic salt, pepper and salt
- Cook the steak to your desired completion on a hot pan
- Set the steak aside to rest and redistribute, making for a juicier cut of meat
- While you’re waiting, reuse the same pan to stir-fry frozen vegetables in the leftover steak juices
He pairs this with one-minute microwaveable rice for an effortless, balanced meal. Angel’s recipe follows his personal “Christmas tree” rule for plating, with red (meat), white (rice) and green (vegetables) all represented.
“Your plate should have those three colors,” he says. “If one’s missing, something’s off.”
“Your plate should have those three colors… if one’s missing, something’s off.”
Cook smarter, drive better
If you’re a truck driver looking to take control of your diet and your finances, consider following Angel’s advice. Plan ahead, be self-sufficient and invest in tools that make cooking on the road easier.
Go deeper
What other ways do CRST drivers take care of themselves? Melvin “Big Country” Hamlin, a senior lead driver for our Health Sciences Plasma group, gives 5 tips to commit to health habits. Learn how to better balance sleep and driving here. And explore six ways to improve your mental health here.
Join us!
Want to take your trucking career to the next level? Discover more tips and explore opportunities as an owner-operator here: Start Your Journey with CRST
