Quinoa Vegetable Soup Recipe opens in a new tab
Despite the flood of holiday-centric articles and cooking shows, collections of can’t-live-without cocktails opens in a new tab and how-tos for homemade treats (Chocolate Hazelnut Spread opens in a new tab, anyone?), you won’t be eating at parties every meal this month. Here are some money-saving tips for those meals in-between the big meals.
Start with Savings
Download coupons and check out a sample of sale items opens in a new tab before you shop — more than a thousand items are on sale (including organics) at our stores every day. Then search our recipes by ingredient opens in a new tab and be sure to check “budget friendly” box for the getting the most out of what you buy. Subscribe to our email newsletter opens in a new tab to receive the latest specials and coupons, plus loads of tested recipes.
Batch Cook
Prepare a big batch of staple ingredients — lentils, grains or veggies — and then incorporate them into various dishes during the week such as salads and wraps. Meatballs work well too. Simply divide seasoned lean ground meat into small patties or balls and cook. Cool and freeze in an airtight container. Defrost for sauces, tacos, salads, stir-fries, pizzas, sandwiches or stuffed peppers.
Reinvent Leftovers
Get the most out of everything! Think transforming crudités to roasted veggies, potatoes to pancakes and meat to pies. Tuck cooked shredded chicken, veggies and grains in whole grain wraps or tortillas. Search our recipes by ingredient opens in a new tab for more ideas.
Buy Some, Make Some
Ready-made to the rescue! Rely on our value-priced frozen entrées, veggies or appetizers. Here’s one idea: Combine broth, frozen veggies and frozen wontons or potstickers for an easy soup. In addition, this Easy Red Lentil Mac and Cheese opens in a new tab recipe has the super-fast convenience of boxed macaroni and cheese with a little extra nutritional oomph.
What are your strategies for saving on everyday meals? Share your tips below.
