The trend for extreme budget meal planning was popularized by Leanne Brown in her free online book Good and Cheap, developed primarily for those using SNAP (food stamp) benefits.At the time the book was written, the budget was $4 a day. When I heard about the project, I decided to try that … [Read more...] about 18 strategies for $10-a-day budget meal planning and grocery shopping
Food
How to keep spring veggies fresh to avoid food waste
This article is part of a Don't Throw It Out! series on how to preserve fresh foods and avoid food waste.Food waste in the U.S. is estimated at 30% to 40% of the food supply. Fresh vegetables top the list. If you have a better use for one-third of your grocery budget, please read on for simple … [Read more...] about How to keep spring veggies fresh to avoid food waste
How to shop and save at ALDI
You may have wondered what the big draw is to ALDI grocery store chain. Some say it’s a strange cult, a mecca for frugal shoppers. The store even has fan clubs with impressive numbers of followers. And I think it might be the only store that has a secret language. Stay with me and I’ll … [Read more...] about How to shop and save at ALDI
Cheap and healthy food to eat on a budget
It's a common misconception that eating healthy is expensive. That's not true. Sure, you can spend a lot on fancy health foods, but it's not necessary. Many low-cost foods are also good for you.A healthy diet is made up of a variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy … [Read more...] about Cheap and healthy food to eat on a budget
Can Costco membership save you money?
Many people seem to have a love-it-or-hate-it attitude toward warehouse stores, but I am a proud card-carrying Costco member because it does save me money.Here's how I save money at Costco and avoid the (expensive) pitfall of overspending on bulk goods.With only two in our household, we … [Read more...] about Can Costco membership save you money?
Scrumptious and homemade Valentine’s Day desserts
If you want your sweetheart to have something sweet for Valentine's Day, those fancy boxes of candy can be pretty expensive. A dessert from the corner bakery or in a restaurant is pricey, too — and your valentine may not want to share.So why not tell your loved ones how you feel with … [Read more...] about Scrumptious and homemade Valentine’s Day desserts
Frugal, easy Valentine’s dinner menu to cook at home
I’m here today to help the economically and experientially disadvantaged among you to prepare a Valentine’s feast. Hopefully you can impress that special someone with whom you are in love, lust, or want to woo just because.I selected this menu for its ease, affordability, colorful presentation … [Read more...] about Frugal, easy Valentine’s dinner menu to cook at home
Sam’s Club Groupon
There's a new Groupon for Sam's Club! This deal on a Sam's Club membership is a one-year membership for $25, or you can purchase the $35 package that comes with Member's Mark extras. It's hard to know how long the deal will last, so you might want to move quickly to make sure you get it.Be sure … [Read more...] about Sam’s Club Groupon
Cheap Super Bowl party food and snacks to make at home
Whether you’re hosting a crowd for game day or watching the Super Bowl with just your immediate family, you’ll want to have snacks on hand to enjoy during the Big Game. But you don’t have to spend a fortune on takeout or pre-made treats to make a great party spread. Check out these Super Bowl party … [Read more...] about Cheap Super Bowl party food and snacks to make at home
Make your own chocolate syrup and hot cocoa mix
Chocolate lovers, rejoice! Recipes for homemade hot cocoa mix and chocolate syrup are so easy and delicious, you won't believe no one told you about them before. Skip the brown squeeze bottle full of preservatives and artificial flavors; it tastes better when you make your own chocolate syrup to … [Read more...] about Make your own chocolate syrup and hot cocoa mix
Weekend breakfast? Try slow cooker French toast
I use my Crock-Pot to make lots of frugal dinners for my family. Tonight it was chili. A few nights ago it was "fried" chicken in the slow cooker. Last week I made barbecue pork chops. One surprise hit with my family? Slow cooker French toast.Crock-Pot French toast is the perfect recipe for … [Read more...] about Weekend breakfast? Try slow cooker French toast
5 cheap, healthy party snacks
It's a struggle to find something unique to bring to parties. Sure, guacamole and chips are delicious, but it's a bit ridiculous when five people bring a batch. Mix it up with these affordable, healthy, vegetarian snacks.Your friends will be impressed by how yummy they are, and you'll be … [Read more...] about 5 cheap, healthy party snacks
Save on kitchen equipment by shopping at restaurant supply stores
If you are a foodie or have a loved one who is a foodie, you might want to consider shopping at restaurant supply stores.What most people don’t realize is that most restaurant supply stores are open to the general public, and you don’t have to own a restaurant, bar or catering business to shop … [Read more...] about Save on kitchen equipment by shopping at restaurant supply stores
6 homemade food gifts (with recipes!) that are cheap and easy to make
If you're looking for unique holiday gifts that won't break the bank, look no further than your kitchen pantry. We’ve pulled together several cheap and easy recipes for homemade food gifts that make especially thoughtful hostess and teacher holiday gifts. Honestly, anyone on your Christmas list who … [Read more...] about 6 homemade food gifts (with recipes!) that are cheap and easy to make
Find easy, affordable holiday meal for under $25 at Target
Cheers! The holidays are home to some of the biggest feasts of the year for family and friends. And, more than likely, some of the most expensive for many households.That's why bargain hunters are quick to eat up any savings they can find on the holiday's traditional dishes. Target is helping … [Read more...] about Find easy, affordable holiday meal for under $25 at Target