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
Recipes
10 make-ahead road trip meals to save money
You're meal planning for your road trip and discovering how difficult it can be to stay frugal while on the road. Eating out during your trip is an easy way to watch your travel budget disappear. Even fast-food meals can add up. However, setting aside some time to prepare make-ahead road trip … [Read more...] about 10 make-ahead road trip meals to save money
Got barbecue leftovers? Use them in these delicious recipes
You invite friends or family over for a cookout, and as usual, you made way too much food. What do you do with the barbecue leftovers? You could eat plain burgers and sausages for days, or you could transform your leftovers into delicious new meals by combining them with new ingredients. If … [Read more...] about Got barbecue leftovers? Use them in these delicious recipes
Cheap recipes for your backyard barbecue
Backyard barbecues are a great way to entertain, but even when you host a potluck, they can be a pricey way to party. Whether you are entertaining a small or large crowd at your backyard barbecue, you can still stay on budget. Here is our guide to cooking on the cheap for a crowd at your next … [Read more...] about Cheap recipes for your backyard barbecue
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
The Easter eggs have been dyed, hidden, and found again. Easter dinner has been cooked, eaten, and enjoyed. And now you're staying at a fridge full of leftover hard-boiled eggs and extra cartons of eggs you bought on sale, and you're thinking, "What do I do with all the eggs after Easter?" Don't … [Read more...] about What to do with leftover Easter eggs
26 adaptable recipes and menu ideas for $4-a-day budget meal planning
My experiment with a $4-a-day budget has become a welcome and permanent adjustment to my menu planning and grocery shopping routine. It has saved not only money, but my time as well as some of my sanity. The $4 a day food budget was popularized by Leanne Brown in her free online book, Good and Cheap … [Read more...] about 26 adaptable recipes and menu ideas for $4-a-day budget meal planning
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
Easy, healthy soup recipes for cold days
Chilly weather just cries out for a hot bowl of soup. Soup for supper can be an inexpensive, healthful, hearty meal for a family, with leftovers for lunch another day. Soups can get by with a small amount of protein; you have savings right there! They can be totally vegetarian (and possibly … [Read more...] about Easy, healthy soup recipes for cold days
5 leftovers you should never throw away
You pay a lot of money for that artisan loaf of bread, then don’t eat it all before it gets stale. You have a recipe that calls for egg whites (or yolks) but not the rest of the egg. The rotisserie chicken is pretty much stripped of the best meat. But don’t throw them away! Some … [Read more...] about 5 leftovers you should never throw away
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
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
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
Vacuum sealers: Are they worth the price?
I hate wasting food almost as much as I love saving money. So anything that can help me save money AND food is a good idea in my book. Since those are the key benefits to vacuum sealers, you know I'm going to find the most cost-effective ways to use them. A vacuum food sealer is basically a small … [Read more...] about Vacuum sealers: Are they worth the price?
Slow cooker meals for busy families
There’s nothing like getting to the end of an exhausting day and wondering what you’re going to do for dinner. Add hunger and evening activities to that scenario and you usually end up in a drive-through. Enter every busy parent’s best kitchen friend, the slow cooker (or good old CP as most of us … [Read more...] about Slow cooker meals for busy families