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
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
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
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
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
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
Give homemade soup as a gift to warm the heart
I enjoy few things more than creating and giving homemade gifts. So many different types of foods — such as quick breads, cookies, candy and drink mixes — lend themselves to giving. But giving soup mix in a jar as a gift to someone who may not have the desire to cook for himself can be a wonderful … [Read more...] about Give homemade soup as a gift to warm the heart
Homemade gifts: 11 easy mixes for drinks and sweets
There is nothing more heartfelt than a one-of-a-kind gift you make yourself. So many different types of gifts lend themselves to being handmade — candles, soaps and, of course, edible and drinkable gifts. Most folks on the receiving end of such gifts appreciate the thought and time it took to create … [Read more...] about Homemade gifts: 11 easy mixes for drinks and sweets
What to do with leftover Thanksgiving side dishes
After spending all that money on a homemade Thanksgiving feast, you're not going to waste a scrap of it. You’re going to get creative with the leftovers, right? Ideas for using the extra turkey are abundant, but how do you use the rest of the Thanksgiving leftovers?We’ve rounded up some ideas … [Read more...] about What to do with leftover Thanksgiving side dishes