Written by: Eliza Macinness
Published on 02 January 2025

HelloFresh Review: I tried it for a week and here’s my honest opinion

Picture this: it’s 7 p.m. on a Monday. You’re staring blankly into your fridge, wondering how to transform an onion and some questionable leftovers into dinner. That was my reality until I discovered HelloFresh. Intrigued by their promise of meals from just £1.57 per person and next-day delivery, I decided to dive into the world of meal kits. Spoiler alert: I’m glad I did. Here’s everything you need to know about my HelloFresh experience, from the ordering process to the mouth-watering meals, and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash.

Ordering made simple

The beauty of HelloFresh starts before the first bite. Ordering was a breeze. I began by choosing a meal plan to suit my busy lifestyle. Whether you’re a veggie lover, a calorie-counter, a pescatarian, or a flexitarian, HelloFresh has you covered. You can even pick plans tailored for families or those who need quick, easy-to-cook recipes (more on that shortly).

For my trial, I went with their quick-cook recipes because, let’s face it, after a long day of work, I need meals that don’t feel like a second job. I opted for 5 meals for two people, which cost £21.49 with their current discount - significantly less than the £40 I typically spend on a food shop for weeknight dinners. Plus, shipping was free! Next, I selected my meals for the week. I skipped the optional desserts and sides since the Christmas season is approaching and I’d like to save my indulgences for the holidays, but it’s nice to know they’re there if you want a treat. I also picked my delivery frequency (you can adjust this anytime). Everything was tailored to fit my schedule and preferences; a level of convenience that feels like a luxury but doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

The Meals: Variety, Quality, and a Touch of Gourmet

HelloFresh impressed me with its extensive menu. From British classics to international favourites like Japanese or Italian, there’s something to suit every palate. Here’s a rundown of the meals I tried and how they stacked up:

1. Creamy Cajun Spiced Double Chorizo Orzo with Peas and Crispy Onions
   This was the first meal I tackled, and it set the bar high. The creamy orzo was comfort food at its best; rich, satisfying, and with a slight kick from the Cajun spices. The crispy onions added a delightful crunch, while the double chorizo gave the dish a smoky, meaty depth. Bonus: It was surprisingly easy to replicate, so it’s one I’ll definitely add to my home-cooking repertoire.

2. Red Thai Style Coconut Prawn Curry with Zesty Jasmine Rice and Salted Peanuts
   Midweek dinners can often feel rushed, but this curry was anything but ordinary. The creamy coconut sauce had just the right balance of spice, and the salted peanuts added a fun textural contrast. The fragrant jasmine rice, with its hint of zest, made it feel like a restaurant-worthy meal I’d conjured up in just 30 minutes. It was a moment of culinary zen in the chaos of a busy week.

3. Lamb Steak and Truffled Parmesan Sauce with Chive Butter Potatoes and Roasted Vegetable Medley
   HelloFresh saved the best for last. This dish felt downright boujee and was a perfect Friday night date night treat. The lamb steak was tender and juicy (cooked expertly by yours truly, if I do say so myself), and the truffled Parmesan sauce was decadent without being overpowering. Paired with buttery chive potatoes and a medley of roasted veggies, it was a showstopper. And the best part? It didn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Can I use HelloFresh even if I can’t cook?

One of the standout features of HelloFresh is how foolproof the cooking process is. Each recipe came with a beautifully designed card that walked me through every step. The ingredients were pre-portioned, so there was no measuring or guessing involved. Just grab, chop, cook, and enjoy. The quick-cook recipes I chose were all ready in 30 minutes or less, making them ideal for my hectic schedule. Even on nights when I felt drained, cooking didn’t feel like a chore. Instead, it was fun, almost meditative. Just stick on some music, have a small glass of wine (after all, it’s a work night) and get cooking.

Is HelloFresh Worth the Money?

Let’s crunch some numbers. For £21.49, I got five delicious, balanced dinners for two people - that’s just £2.15 per portion. Compare that to my usual weekly food shop, which easily hits £40 for dinner ingredients alone, and HelloFresh feels like a steal.

But it’s not just about cost savings. HelloFresh eliminates the stress of meal planning, the time spent wandering supermarket aisles, and the guilt of wasting unused ingredients. You pay for convenience, but it’s a convenience that genuinely improves your quality of life. And the food? Restaurant quality, but made in your own kitchen. You’re not just paying for ingredients; you’re paying for the experience of cooking delicious, creative meals without the hassle. The ingredients come with a cooking card, which can also be saved for later if you want to easily replicate a favourite recipe at a later date.

Sustainability and Convenience

Another thing I appreciated was the eco-conscious packaging. Almost everything was recyclable or reusable, which aligns nicely with my efforts to reduce waste. The pre-portioned ingredients also mean no food is left unused; a win for your wallet and the planet. Delivery was seamless, too. My box arrived the next day as promised, with everything neatly packed and still chilled, thanks to clever insulation. No need to worry about your salmon or steak sitting in a warm van.

Final Verdict: Will I Order Again?

In a word: absolutely. HelloFresh has turned weeknight dinners from a mundane necessity into something I look forward to. It’s affordable, convenient, and packed with variety, making it a no-brainer for busy households. I’ve already decided to order a box twice a month moving forward. It’s the perfect way to inject a bit of excitement into my meal routine without breaking the bank - or my spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef looking for new ideas or a cooking novice who wants to build confidence in the kitchen, HelloFresh is well worth trying.

So, next time you’re staring into the abyss of your fridge, wondering what on earth to cook, remember: HelloFresh is just a click away. Trust me, your taste buds, and your wallet, will thank you.