Those fancy boxes of candy can be pretty expensive. A Valentine dessert from the corner bakery or in a restaurant can cost you almost as much a nice meal. So why not tell your loved ones how you feel with homemade treats and desserts? They’re less expensive and they’re tailored to their … [Read more...] about Scrumptious homemade desserts for Valentine’s Day
Recipes
How to throw a cheap Super Bowl party
Big events don’t have to equal big spending. A little food, some libations, a few decorations and a TV, and you’ve got the makings for a great Super Bowl party. If you’re having friends over to watch the game, here are some ideas that can help you keep the price tag under control. 1. Consider … [Read more...] about How to throw a cheap Super Bowl party
Easy recipes for homemade food gifts
We’ve pulled together several easy recipes (and many variations) for food gifts that make especially thoughtful hostess and teacher holiday gifts, or for anyone on your Christmas list who enjoys something homemade. Most of these homemade food gifts are fairly easy to make (some much … [Read more...] about Easy recipes for homemade food gifts
23 delicious uses for Thanksgiving leftovers
When the biggest eating day of the year has come to a close, you're left with a full belly and a kitchen full of food. Of course, you could simply recreate your turkey day plate for countless more meals. Or, you could try something different and create meals your family won't even recognize as … [Read more...] about 23 delicious uses for Thanksgiving leftovers
How to make homemade vanilla extract
One of my goals for this year is to begin making holiday gifts in November, so I'm not stressing and rushing to finish up gifts mid-December. One of my favorite homemade gifts to give (and keep for myself) is homemade vanilla extract, but it takes time to develop so you need to start it … [Read more...] about How to make homemade vanilla extract
Make your own pop-tarts and other DIY convenience foods
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They're called convenience foods for a reason. But take a little time to make these items and enjoy the convenience of ready-to-eat foods with a cheaper price tag — and, sometimes, a healthier result. Some prepackaged foods (such as frozen pizzas) can be expensive, available seasonally … [Read more...] about Make your own pop-tarts and other DIY convenience foods
Healthy school lunches kids won’t toss in the trash
If your child regularly brings their lunch to school, you've faced the "what to pack" dilemma. You want to pack something nutritious, but you also need to be sure your kids will eat it. A thrown-out lunch does nothing for your child's health or your wallet; it's basically cash in the … [Read more...] about Healthy school lunches kids won’t toss in the trash
Fall apple and pumpkin recipes + DIY pumpkin puree
Fall is here, and it's time for hot cider, hearty stews and, naturally, pumpkins and apples. They’re everywhere – piled in front of grocery stores and farmers markets, decorating the classroom and even gracing the front desk at the gym. And why not? They’re colorful, festive, have a long shelf life … [Read more...] about Fall apple and pumpkin recipes + DIY pumpkin puree
Best vegetarian burger recipes using cheap and tasty beans
There are so many types of beans available in your grocery store - navy, turtle, pinto, chickpea, kidney and so many more. Beans are jam-packed with complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. And they are sources of Vitamin B, calcium, and iron. They are a win-win food for your health and for your … [Read more...] about Best vegetarian burger recipes using cheap and tasty beans
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
Make homemade tamales and fun crafts for Cinco de Mayo
If you’ve got a craving for tamales you’re not alone. Tamales, made of masa (dough, usually corn-based) with filling, steamed in corn husks, have been eaten since at least 5000 BC, possibly as early as 8000 BC. The Mayan and Aztec civilizations both used them as portable food for hunters, armies and … [Read more...] about Make homemade tamales and fun crafts for Cinco de Mayo
5 ways to use leftover Easter ham
You paid a lot for that Easter ham. Don’t waste the leftovers -- or worse yet, ruin them by constant reheating. There are lots of uses for leftover ham besides ham sandwiches. We have some thrifty ideas for making those leftovers into yummy new meals. Casseroles: Make a … [Read more...] about 5 ways to use leftover Easter ham
