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Maybe it’s a sign of the times, but staying in for dinner—and eating out on special occasions only—is becoming the norm these days.
Many families are looking for ways to eat cheaper and healthier while also spending some time together. Busy schedules and tighter budgets have people divvying up duties and shopping for deals in hopes of making mealtime run a bit more smoothly.
Unfortunately (as you know all too well!), a healthy and satisfying dinner doesn’t just appear at the snap of your fingers—there’s lots of planning, shopping, and prep-time before the finished product makes its way onto your plate.
“People are realizing that home-cooked meals provide a healthier alternative to fast-food runs or TV dinners while also saving them some money,” says Susan Nicholson, RD/LD, author of 7-Day Menu Planner For Dummies® (Wiley, October 2010, ISBN: 978-0-470-87857-6, $19.99).
“Plus, sitting down to eat with your whole family allows you to share some time together—so that’s an added benefit!”
As Nicholson points out, cooking up some quick and easy meals at home can help you save some dough (money, that is!), consume a more nutritious diet, and spend time with your loved ones. What are you waiting for?
Below are eleven budget-friendly tips to help you get started planning your menu:
1) Monitor your portions
2) Watch for sales
3) Clip coupons
4) Buy generic
5) Buy in quantity
6) Don’t pay for waste
7) Clean out the freezer and cabinets. Decrease your inventory
8) Cut down on convenience foods
9) Pack a lunch (or dinner)
10) Think doggie bags
11) Plant a garden
“If you put the effort into implementing these wallet-friendly tips, then planning and preparing your nutritious and delicious meals will be a lot less of a headache,” Nicholson concludes. “And don’t forget to get everyone involved to make it a family effort!”
About the Author
Susan Nicholson, RD/LD, is a registered and licensed dietitian who writes the syndicated newspaper column 7-Day Menu Planner. She is a member of the American Dietetic Association and the International Association of Culinary Professionals.
About the Book
7-Day Menu Planner For Dummies® (Wiley, October 2010, ISBN: 978-0-470-87857-6, $19.99) is available at bookstores nationwide, major online booksellers, or directly from the publisher by calling (877) 762-2974.
Maybe it’s a sign of the times, but staying in for dinner—and eating out on special occasions only—is becoming the norm these days.
Many families are looking for ways to eat cheaper and healthier while also spending some time together. Busy schedules and tighter budgets have people divvying up duties and shopping for deals in hopes of making mealtime run a bit more smoothly.
Unfortunately (as you know all too well!), a healthy and satisfying dinner doesn’t just appear at the snap of your fingers—there’s lots of planning, shopping, and prep-time before the finished product makes its way onto your plate.
“People are realizing that home-cooked meals provide a healthier alternative to fast-food runs or TV dinners while also saving them some money,” says Susan Nicholson, RD/LD, author of 7-Day Menu Planner For Dummies® (Wiley, October 2010, ISBN: 978-0-470-87857-6, $19.99).
“Plus, sitting down to eat with your whole family allows you to share some time together—so that’s an added benefit!”
As Nicholson points out, cooking up some quick and easy meals at home can help you save some dough (money, that is!), consume a more nutritious diet, and spend time with your loved ones. What are you waiting for?
Below are eleven budget-friendly tips to help you get started planning your menu:
1) Monitor your portions
2) Watch for sales
3) Clip coupons
4) Buy generic
5) Buy in quantity
6) Don’t pay for waste
7) Clean out the freezer and cabinets. Decrease your inventory
8) Cut down on convenience foods
9) Pack a lunch (or dinner)
10) Think doggie bags
11) Plant a garden
“If you put the effort into implementing these wallet-friendly tips, then planning and preparing your nutritious and delicious meals will be a lot less of a headache,” Nicholson concludes. “And don’t forget to get everyone involved to make it a family effort!”
About the Author
Susan Nicholson, RD/LD, is a registered and licensed dietitian who writes the syndicated newspaper column 7-Day Menu Planner. She is a member of the American Dietetic Association and the International Association of Culinary Professionals.
About the Book
7-Day Menu Planner For Dummies® (Wiley, October 2010, ISBN: 978-0-470-87857-6, $19.99) is available at bookstores nationwide, major online booksellers, or directly from the publisher by calling (877) 762-2974.
