Are you cooking at home now more than ever? It's great to be able to not only control all of the ingredients in your food but to save some money while you're at it. Preparing your own meals allows you to eat healthier and it can be economical too. The secret to saving by cooking at home is proper planning.
If I arrive at the supermarket unprepared and without a list, I can spend more than I would at a restaurant for a week.
Here are some easy steps you can take to arrive at the store armed and ready.
1. Plan for the week and stick to your plan. - Questions to ask yourself... What nights will you be cooking? For how many? What ingredients will stay freshest the longest?
2. Prepare a detailed menu for the week and break out your shopping list from there. *Here's a time saving tip. Divide your list up into sections of the store so you stay in order and avoid straying from your list. You don't need that $46.00 truffle butter.
3. Always check expiration dates on EVERYTHING, and take a look at the center of produce like asparagus for freshness. Some stores are notorious for making produce appear fresher than it is by conveniently rearranging some leaves and stems. Don't be afraid to opt for frozen veggies - they will last longer and they're just as nutritious!
4. Buy extra of sale items like marinara sauce, cereal, or edamame, that you can freeze or store away.
5. If you shop weekly, try to buy enough non-perishables for 2-4 weeks so you only need to stock up on proteins and produce next week.
And please eat before you shop!
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