I spent a good part of last weekend cooking. I had already spent most of my May food budget by that point and needed to do some serious planning and preparation in order to make my groceries stretch. After picking up a few items for weekend meals at the farmer's market and neighbourhood grocery, I got to work shopping in my own pantry/freezer and prepping the 12 days of meals needed to get me to my next payday (on June 3).
Breakfasts:
Yogurt with Strawberry Jam (4 meals)
Homemade Hazelnut and Cranberry Granola, topped with coconut milk (4 meals)
Yogurt with Granola and Honey (4 meals)
Lunches:
Balcony Salad with Roasted Yams and home-made dressing (2 meals)
Tuna Sandwiches (2 meals)
Red Lentil Dahl with Rice (8 meals)
Dinners:
Eggs, Balcony Salad and Toast (bread still to be baked) (2 meals)
Crepes with Strawberry Jam and Yogurt (2 meals)
Chicken and Veggie Casserole (using all of my frozen veggies and the leftover chicken from my last roast) (8 meals)
Snacks:
Carrot sticks
Dates and raw cashews
Kashi granola bars
Frozen grapes
Popcorn
Banana Coconut Muffins
I did purchase a few bits and pieces over the course of the week, but overall I am feeling rather impressed with myself (hehe). It's amazing what a little time, some scrimping and a few frozen leftovers can provide! For under $50, I prepared at least 30 meals and have the makings of about 10 more.
2 comments:
Wow - that's IMPRESSIVE!! Under $50? Wow again.
I did have to chuckle when I saw your jar of granola. You must have purchased that jar at IKEA because I have the identical one sitting on my counter and it is just a little fuller than yours of MY homemade granola! Too funny.
I'm so impressed with your resourcefulness, Melissa, and for the healthy and delicious-looking meals you prepare. I can learn something from you.
Blessings!
Ruth
Thanks Ruth! I am sure the actual financial investment was much higher than $50 when you include all the food I used from the cupboards, but that doesn't really count, does it?
In any case, although I'm not the most frugal person, I've decided that I MUST stick to my budget. I need every penny I can save for a very important project ;)
Yes, my jar (one of 6) is from Ikea. I think I have had them from 10+ years now and use them for everything from flower vases to . . . granola!
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