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
Food
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
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
What to do with leftover Easter eggs
Are you wondering what to do with what with leftover Easter eggs? Once the holiday has come and gone, everyone is likely on the hunt for leftover Easter egg recipes. The good news is we've got you covered with easy egg recipes and ideas! The Easter eggs have been dyed, hidden, and found … [Read more...] about What to do with leftover Easter eggs
Inexpensive ways to celebrate a meaningful Easter
A meaningful family Easter celebration doesn't have to entail a springtime spending spree, especially if you've just finished paying off the bills from Christmas. Here are ways to enjoy the holiday while keeping to a budget. Prioritize meaningful family timeOver the past couple of … [Read more...] about Inexpensive ways to celebrate a meaningful Easter
How to grow herbs and save money all year
Are you tired of paying big bucks for cooking herbs? Grow your own. For less than the price of a jar of dried herbs, you can plant fresh herbs (plants or seeds). Use your fresh herbs during the growing season and dry herbs throughout winter. Most herbs are easy to grow. These tips tell you how to do … [Read more...] about How to grow herbs and save money all year
Make your own 100-calorie snack packs to save cash — and your diet
As a registered dietitian, I believe a 100- to 200-calorie snack between meals is great way to achieve and maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. Clearly, others agree as grocery stores, gas stations and convenience stores sell countless numbers of 100-calorie packs of crackers, cookies, candy and … [Read more...] about Make your own 100-calorie snack packs to save cash — and your diet
18 strategies for $10-a-day budget meal planning and grocery shopping
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
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?
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