Sarasota News and Books

Enjoying a home cooked meal doesn’t mean breaking the bank. A few simple ingredients combined with care will result in a satisfying and healthy day.

Frozen vegetables are the most economical way of purchasing vegetables. There are tastes for everyone, as most veggies complement any meal. Try buying in bulk as much as possible. Often you can save a lot of money on these frequently necessary ingredients.

Pasta is another great way of eating simply and isn’t expensive. Try making improvised spaghetti dishes that utilize your frozen vegetables. Use spinach, garbanzo beans, broccoli, zucchini, corn, or mushrooms the possibilities are infinite. Mix your veggies into a tomato sauce for a flavorful meal. Add spices to taste.

It is good to have a variety of spices on hand, as they can help to enhance simple meals. Oregano, garlic powder, olive oil, parsley, tarragon, basil, chili powder, and cumin. Buy the dried flakes as they are cheapest, and while fresh herbs are delicious, they aren’t necessary for a beautiful dinner. Salt and pepper are necessary to have in your arsenal, as well as butter, milk, cheese, and flour.

Buying the store brand items is a great idea. The extra cents spent on name brand foods adds up in the long run.