Money Saving Idea - Food

Soup is one of the most budget friendly meals there is. Save leftover vegetables and meat bits in the freezer in "zipper" freezer bags until you are ready to make a pot of homemade soup. Just add rice or noodles and beef or chicken stock, cook until the rice or pasta is done. Serve with biscuits or warm bread for a hearty meal.

Money Saving Idea - Food

Buy grated cheese in 5 pound bags and store it in the freezer. When you need some, just thump the bag on the counter a few times, and enough cheese will release from the frozen clump. Occasionally, it is inconvenient to have all my cheese frozen, like when I want to serve some along with chili or as a topping with a taco meal. So, you may also might consider repackaging a 5 pound package of cheese into a few "zipper" freezer bags.

Money Saving Idea - Food

Install an under-sink water filter, and stop buying expensive bottled water.

Cost: $59 for a 3M Professional system, at mass retailers everywhere.

Savings: $360 per year on purified water.

Bonus: You're reducing the environmental impact of plastic water bottles.

Money Saving Idea - Food

Let tomatoes breathe. Tomatoes do best when they are taken out of the plastic produce bag. Leave them on the counter until use instead of placing them in the refrigerator. Cold has a negative effect on their flavor and texture.

Money Saving Idea - Food

Ditch the plastic bag. Fruit keeps best if you remove it from the plastic bag you brought it home in before placing it in the crisper drawer. This is also true of green and red bell peppers.

Cost: Nothing.

Savings: Varies depending on the amount of and types of fruits.

Bonus: Fresher fruit longer so you and your family eat healthier.