Budget Friendly Foods

Listen to Amy\’s tips.

I’m all about living, and living well. In this uncertain economy, we all need to explore creative ways to do more with less. I’ve discovered that living well doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. It comes from smart, savvy strategies for saving on everything from clothes to furniture, groceries to makeup, massages to home improvement – even entertainment and travel. And being smart and savvy feels really good.

If you’re feeling the pinch here’s a delicious morsel for you to savor; when it comes to food, inexpensive food is usually the most nutritious. It’s true! Here’s a trio of good-for-you goodies that are good for your budget, too.

Budget-friendly food #1: Eggs

If you’re in the habit of wheeling through the drive-thru for breakfast, you’re about to save a bundle! Priced well under $2 a dozen, protein-packed eggs ring in at just over a dime apiece. Dashboard diners take note: my Breakfast Burrito recipe is a healthy, delicious, and totally affordable grab-and-go breakfast For genuinely fast food any time you need it, make an extra batch and freeze them. A quick nuke and you’re out the door.

Budget-friendly food #2: Beans
If you aren’t including beans in your diet several times a week, you’re missing out on a powerful one-two punch. These nutritional heavyweights come with a lightweight price! Packed with protein and fiber, beans keep you feeling full longer. Canned beans are quick, easy and inexpensive. If you’re really watching your pennies, dried beans ring up just over a buck a pound. Multi-taskers take note: my Black Bean with Bacon Soup makes a delicious, nutritious and inexpensive lunch to tote to work. Look at you! You’re saving money –and making it, too!

Budget-friendly food #3: Chicken

A whole chicken ranges from just $4-$8 and can usually feed a family of 4 with leftovers. Knowing how to prepare a classic “Sunday Dinner Style” roast chicken belongs in everyone’s skill set. This is my no-fail recipe.

Planning ahead is the simplest savings step: Whether roasted or grilled, I like to cook plenty of extra chicken, divide it into meal-sized portions and then toss it in the freezer for quick and easy dinners in no time flat. Here are some great ways to prepare and freeze chicken.

There you have it! Simple. Smart. Savvy.  No one said saving money had to hurt!