Sticker shock used to be synonymous with new cars. Now it's in the grocery store (and everywhere else). (Please note that while some of these prices may have risen over the past year, many are still the same or close. This post is just an example of how to use ingredients in multiple recipes … [Read more...] about A $50-a-week meal plan for 1 by shopping at ALDI
Food
Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
It's summer, it's hot and you want the kids to get outdoors and be active. When all that running around builds up a thirst, ice pops are a great way to cool off and keep hydrated. With some popsicle brands costing nearly $5 for a box of six, store-bought treats can be a pricey option. Luckily, … [Read more...] about Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
How to get free box of new Nature Valley bars (up to $5.99)
Summer's here and families will definitely need snacks for hiking, biking, road trips or just running around having fun in the sun.And, for many, the perfect choice is anything from Nature Valley. They offer a wide variety of bars, granola and snacks — from crunchy or chewy to salty or sweet. … [Read more...] about How to get free box of new Nature Valley bars (up to $5.99)
Restaurant deals by day
Looking for food deals near you? On the hunt for a cheap lunch deal today? Or are you searching for the best restaurant deals in the coming week?Look no further. Here we've rounded up the current food specials at Living on the Cheap, including free food, Monday night specials (and other weekday … [Read more...] about Restaurant deals by day
Are private label store brands good or just cheaper?
One of the easiest ways to maximize value for your retail dollar is to buy private label products.Private label (also called “private brand”, “store brand”, “own brand” or “our brand”) are products made specifically for a retailer and carry the chain’s name or a brand name created exclusively by … [Read more...] about Are private label store brands good or just cheaper?
Cheap food for college students (65+ recipes)
Cheap food for college students is so much more than just plain 'ol ramen noodles and macaroni and cheese! There are easy and yummy recipes for college kids out there that won't break the bank. This list of affordable food for college kids proves that they can treat their taste buds without … [Read more...] about Cheap food for college students (65+ recipes)
Easy DIY smoothies cool you off for less cash
As the summer temperatures climb into the 80s, 90s or higher, not much is more refreshing than a cool, creamy, fruity drink. But shelling out $5 a pop or more for a small smoothie can put a damper on your relaxed mood. The good news is you can achieve that same level of summer nirvana without the … [Read more...] about Easy DIY smoothies cool you off for less cash
How to eat gluten-free on the cheap
Learn how to eat gluten-free without breaking the bank. Here are cheap, gluten-free options for anyone who needs to cut costs while staying true to their diet and nutritional needs. Many people are making the switch to a gluten-free diet due to food allergies, sensitivities, or dietary … [Read more...] about How to eat gluten-free on the cheap
Free guide and recipes for delicious, cheap, healthy meals
More than 41 million people today depend on food stamps (formally, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP). In April 2023, the national average monthly benefit was $181.72 per person and $343.00 per household.Many of the rest of us struggle with food prices, too. So who doesn’t … [Read more...] about Free guide and recipes for delicious, cheap, healthy meals
How to save money on food without using coupons
Groceries for a family of four with young children cost an average of about $1,000 a month in the summer of 2023, not including takeout and restaurant meals, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s a big chunk of change.But there are ways to spend less on food and still eat a … [Read more...] about How to save money on food without using coupons
Is Sam’s Club membership worth it?
For families and those who have space in their homes to buy in large quantity, a warehouse store membership often makes sense — dollars and cents. But for many frugal people, the idea of paying to shop at a store gives them pause. How can you decide if Sam's Club is worth the membership … [Read more...] about Is Sam’s Club membership worth it?
Grow lettuce and save money on salad
Don’t let the rising cost of produce keep you from eating salad. Grow your own lettuce and save money. Lettuce is easy to grow, takes up little space and is quick to mature. Get your children involved, and they might eat more salad, too.I’ve had the best luck with leafy lettuce … [Read more...] about Grow lettuce and save money on salad
Cheap, simple and elegant charcuterie board ideas
Those elaborate charcuterie boards on social media might have you convinced that you need to spend hundreds of dollars on cheese and crackers to have a barely presentable spread. But as the author of three books on cheese and one on sausage, I’m here to tell you that that is false advertising. With … [Read more...] about Cheap, simple and elegant charcuterie board ideas
The secret to serving a quick, cheap family dinner every night
In today’s crazy-busy world, family dinner is especially important. Even though Susie has karate, Joey has swim lessons and Mom and Dad commute to work, you need time to connect as a family and eat a nutritious meal. Even better if that meal's a home-cooked one.The idea of cooking dinner every … [Read more...] about The secret to serving a quick, cheap family dinner every night
6 ways to use leftover Easter ham
You paid a lot for that Easter ham. Don’t waste those tasty leftovers — or worse yet, ruin them by constant reheating. Ham is a versatile ingredient, and you can find lots of uses for leftover ham besides cheese sandwiches. We found six thrifty ways to turn those Easter leftovers into yummy new … [Read more...] about 6 ways to use leftover Easter ham