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Sometimes we just need someone to tell us what to do. Whether it's a big decision (should we buy this house?) or a small one (what should I wear today?), it can be a lot easier when you can just take a directive and go with it, rather than agonizing over the options. That's the idea behind meal plan subscription services. They aim to make planning a week's worth of dinners less daunting, especially for cooks who are more about following recipes than just winging it based on what's in the fridge. Getting a shopping list in their in-box and instructions on what to do and when to do it makes the job a lot less stressful.

[After the jump, meal plans for greenmarket shoppers, gluten-free eaters and budget-conscious cooks]




If you...live near a farm or greenmarket, or participate in a CSA, try Lilly's Table.
What you'll pay: $12/month
What you'll get: Healthy, vegetable-heavy meals with an emphasis on what's in season right now.
What you might make for dinner: Strawberry Cucumber Gazpacho, Warm Dandelion–Sweet Potato Salad

If you...follow a gluten-free diet but don't want to eat prepackaged food, try The Fresh 20.
What you'll pay: $5/month
What you'll get: A gluten-free plan that promises five meals using just 20 fresh, seasonal ingredients per week.
What you might make for dinner: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Easy Potato Salad and Caramel Apple Cups

If you...are on a budget and shop at large chain grocery stores, try E-Mealz.
What you'll pay: $5/month
What you'll get: Cost-conscious dinners made with food from name-brand stores (Kroger, Publix, Wal-Mart and others—or just choose "any store").
What you might make for dinner: Balsamic Pork Chops with Rice Pilaf and Buttery Corn