I have been so busy lately that I have been horrible at posting, but I am back and I have a list of things to post about! Such as today's post! With a blog about changing your path in life and how to survive it, I figured I needed to live the lessons of my blog.
We tend to get ourselves in ruts that are just easier to live with then break, but these ruts can be damaging to us whether its emotionally, physically, or even budget wise. So sometimes we just need to take that chance and try something different even if it doesn't feel normal! Today I took that chance and was shocked at how well it turned out for me! In the past last 3-4 months I have been so consumed with my brothers wedding(which was amazing!), getting things ready for preschool, and helping with the rush of Cornhole Boards that I just was going through my monthly and weekly grocery motions and not finding more savings. Well with the amazing news about my husbands new promotion we got last week, I was forced to rethink the budget due to the increase of drive time and gas he will have.
To cover this new increase in our budget, I wanted to see if I could shave $10 off my weekly grocery budget to cushion the gas budget. So I set a goal to get the full weeks worth of groceries for less then $40! I was determined to do it and figured if I really wanted to amp it up, I needed to take a chance! I had the afternoon free since the girls were in preschool so I figured I would go a little out of my way and try a new grocery store. I am an avid couponer and budgeter so I am pretty familiar with prices of the items we like to get, plus I was equipped with the Sunday ads from other stores so I knew what price ranges I wanted to beat. With all this on my side I figured it was safe to jump head first and try a new store. I am so glad I did! Not only did I get everything on my list, but I also got 4 pears, 3lbs of apples, 2 avocados, 2lbs of red grapes, and an 8pk of Fruit & Veggie juice boxes....final total....$31.86! YES!! Not only did I come in $8.14 under my new budget, but I also got extra produce that I hadn't planned on! BONUS!!
So I know this isn't a scary jump or a big change, but it was a change that I was anxious to make. Now I am kicking myself for not trying this earlier! Sometimes we need to take those little steps to help make the bigger ones a little easier!
Showing posts with label In the Kitchen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label In the Kitchen. Show all posts
Monday, October 1, 2012
Friday, June 29, 2012
But I eat "Fat Free"
We have all walked the aisles at the grocery store and seen the big labels screaming "FAT FREE" or "LOW FAT" next to our favorite products. Instantly we think to ourselves..."Great, I can have what I like without the guilt". Or is that really what you are getting?
The reason that many of your favorite foods can claim to be Fat-Free, is because in order to cut out the fat, they have added various chemicals, additives, and preservatives. So although your body may not be taking in the additional fat that you are worried about, it is taking in chemicals that are not easily digested like real foods are.
Also along with adding these additional chemicals, many times the products also have increased amounts of sugars added to the product to achieve the same enjoyable taste without the fat. The downside to this, is the body then needs to work harder to burn off the additional sugars it is taking in. So really the fat you are saving isn't as beneficial as it really seems.
Plus on top of the various chemicals you are putting into your body, studies have shown that our brain processes the consumption of these "Fat-Free" products differently and in turn allows us to easily over eat when we are eating what we feel is a 'healthier' option. We feel that because it is fat-free that we can splurge a little bit more, so we usually still consume the same amount of calories if we would have eaten the more natural, whole fat product in the first place. The worst part of this...is even when we do eat these products we feel that we haven't truly satisfied our cravings and feel guilty or eat additional servings to reach that satisfaction we wanted.
Something we also need to remember, our bodies need fat! I know that is not what people want to hear when they are trying to lose weight, but it is the truth! We need to have enough calories and fat to maintain our bodies needs in order to lose weight. If our body does not get what it needs to survive...it will shut down! The down side to this? No matter how hard you are working out, you will not be losing the weight you should be. Nor will you be building the muscle you need to keep your metabolism up and motivated all day long.
So what should you do? You should opt for the more whole product with the fat, and eat it according to the serving size. This way you can get the satisfaction you wanted, plus taken in a whole product that your body can easily digest and burn. If you are going to splurge, then do it right! Make it worth the calories, and set your body up to easily work it off!
The reason that many of your favorite foods can claim to be Fat-Free, is because in order to cut out the fat, they have added various chemicals, additives, and preservatives. So although your body may not be taking in the additional fat that you are worried about, it is taking in chemicals that are not easily digested like real foods are.
Also along with adding these additional chemicals, many times the products also have increased amounts of sugars added to the product to achieve the same enjoyable taste without the fat. The downside to this, is the body then needs to work harder to burn off the additional sugars it is taking in. So really the fat you are saving isn't as beneficial as it really seems.
Plus on top of the various chemicals you are putting into your body, studies have shown that our brain processes the consumption of these "Fat-Free" products differently and in turn allows us to easily over eat when we are eating what we feel is a 'healthier' option. We feel that because it is fat-free that we can splurge a little bit more, so we usually still consume the same amount of calories if we would have eaten the more natural, whole fat product in the first place. The worst part of this...is even when we do eat these products we feel that we haven't truly satisfied our cravings and feel guilty or eat additional servings to reach that satisfaction we wanted.
Something we also need to remember, our bodies need fat! I know that is not what people want to hear when they are trying to lose weight, but it is the truth! We need to have enough calories and fat to maintain our bodies needs in order to lose weight. If our body does not get what it needs to survive...it will shut down! The down side to this? No matter how hard you are working out, you will not be losing the weight you should be. Nor will you be building the muscle you need to keep your metabolism up and motivated all day long.
So what should you do? You should opt for the more whole product with the fat, and eat it according to the serving size. This way you can get the satisfaction you wanted, plus taken in a whole product that your body can easily digest and burn. If you are going to splurge, then do it right! Make it worth the calories, and set your body up to easily work it off!
Monday, June 25, 2012
Cha-Cha-Cha CHIA!
Since I was a child of the early 80's, I grew up with all the fad products that were heavily advertised on all the major TV channels...especially on Saturday morning during my favorite cartoons. We always saw various commercials for the Chia Pet, which came in numerous styles, shapes, and designs! Everyone thought they were so cool...no real function other then adding another plant to your house. Little did we know at the time that these seeds were more then just a crazy looking plant for your desk.
These amazing seeds are mild in flavor, just a slight nutty flavor, that are packed with fiber and calcium. This awesome seed can also absorb up to 12 times its own weight in liquid so it is great for helping you curb your appetite and allowing you to feel full without those crappy weight loss pills.
1. Add to my smoothies/protein shakes: I add 1 tablespoon to my smoothie and blend it up right in the smoothie. This helps me stay full all morning long without getting cravings!
2. Add to my salads: I like to sprinkle a tablespoon of seeds on top of my salads as an added crunch. Its essentially like adding sesame seeds, but much better for you!
3. Chia Pudding: In a covered container I add 3 tablespoons of chia seeds to a cup of liquid such as almond milk or Greek yogurt. To add more flavors I will toss in some cut up peaches, raisins, or dried cranberries. Then simply place in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or overnight, and then devour! It reminds me of tapioca but much better!
4. Added to Protein Bars: I love making my own granola and protein bars so I know exactly what is going in them, and this allows me to add extra crunch and fiber! This way not only am I getting a great protein packed bar, but its also going to fill me up so I don't have to battle cravings throughout the day!
To find these amazing seeds, simply head to your grocery store! Most have them in the baking section, packaged by Bobs Red Mill:
Now that you know where to get them and how to use them...start adding them to your daily diet! It is easy to toss in here and there, and you won't regret it!
These amazing seeds are mild in flavor, just a slight nutty flavor, that are packed with fiber and calcium. This awesome seed can also absorb up to 12 times its own weight in liquid so it is great for helping you curb your appetite and allowing you to feel full without those crappy weight loss pills.
Here are my favorite ways to use these seeds:
1. Add to my smoothies/protein shakes: I add 1 tablespoon to my smoothie and blend it up right in the smoothie. This helps me stay full all morning long without getting cravings!
2. Add to my salads: I like to sprinkle a tablespoon of seeds on top of my salads as an added crunch. Its essentially like adding sesame seeds, but much better for you!
3. Chia Pudding: In a covered container I add 3 tablespoons of chia seeds to a cup of liquid such as almond milk or Greek yogurt. To add more flavors I will toss in some cut up peaches, raisins, or dried cranberries. Then simply place in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or overnight, and then devour! It reminds me of tapioca but much better!
4. Added to Protein Bars: I love making my own granola and protein bars so I know exactly what is going in them, and this allows me to add extra crunch and fiber! This way not only am I getting a great protein packed bar, but its also going to fill me up so I don't have to battle cravings throughout the day!
To find these amazing seeds, simply head to your grocery store! Most have them in the baking section, packaged by Bobs Red Mill:
Now that you know where to get them and how to use them...start adding them to your daily diet! It is easy to toss in here and there, and you won't regret it!
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Whats your eating style?
Anywhere you look there is a new fad diet system, program, or product that is supposed to promise a quick fix to your weight loss needs. For me, I am not about the fad diets that usually are only good for a quick temporary weight loss that easily comes back. I think that if you truly want to change your body and health, you need to change your lifestyle. Just changing for a temporary amount of time is only going to give you a temporary fix, so to get a life change you need a lifestyle change.
So how do you change your lifestyle? First its going to take some commitment and a little research. Most of all though, it is going to take a want and need to change. If you continue to do what you have always done, you will continue to receive what you have always received. So to see a different you, you are going to need to feed it differently. Once you have the determination to change your lifestyle, you need to decide what lifestyle is right for you.
Like I said, there are lots of fad diets out there trying to tempt you...but if you do your research you will find that there are some great styles of eating and living that are not only logical but also easy! I could go on for days with all the different things you can try, but I don't want to waste your time! Instead I am going to share 2 of my favorite lifestyle choices that are similar in style but slightly different based on your idea of including grains and beans in your diet. Here are the two lifestyles that I feel are a great start for a healthier you, along with some links to blogs that I have found helpful:
***********************************************************************************
Now that I have shared some of my faves about both of these lifestyles, I want to share about how to be successful with a lifestyle change like this.
First, remember you are human! You will slip up, you will be tempted, you will have cravings and challenges. So embrace this and set yourself up for success not failure. You should go through your pantry and fridge and eliminate items that no longer fit your lifestyle and would just temp you. Think of it as a cleanse for your life and a benefit to your local food pantry!
Second, stop torturning yourself! Understand that when you do have a slip up you need to move on and get back on track. Just because you slip up once doesn't mean you have to give up. Accept it and keep moving forward!
Third, understand that nothing has to be 100%. For myself I try to eat 85% Paleo and 15% Clean Eating. Basically I eat mainly off the paleo standards but allow myself some grains on occassions. I still stick with the guidlines Clean Eating establishes for the grains I allow myself though.
Lastly, you have to allow yourself a splurge or two. If you have been invited out by the girls and you are going out for the evening...set your rules up ahead of time and allow yourself a splurge. Make sure to follow your rules and if you are going to indulge do it right. First decide what your splurge is going to be...for me I love dessert so I want to have an indulgent dessert everyonce in a while. So in order to do this, I make sure to set out my rules for the night so I can reward myself without the guilt. So my rules may be no alcohol, salad with lean protein, and 3-4 glasses of water throughout the meal. Then when I get my dessert I will be less likely to finish it all, and if I do I have set myself up for a healthy beginning to my meal so the splurge isn't as damaging! Now here is the most important thing about a splurge...if you are going to do, do it right. Thats right...splurge on the real thing. Studies show that if you splurge on the full fat, naughty items you wanted, you are less likely to over indulge and feel more satisfied. They have found that if you skimp on your splurge you feel like you not only cheated yourself, but feel guiltier because it didn't even hit the spot like you wanted it to!
So now you have some options to look into! Don't by any means think that these are your only options, but look at them as a start for your research into a healthier you!
So how do you change your lifestyle? First its going to take some commitment and a little research. Most of all though, it is going to take a want and need to change. If you continue to do what you have always done, you will continue to receive what you have always received. So to see a different you, you are going to need to feed it differently. Once you have the determination to change your lifestyle, you need to decide what lifestyle is right for you.
Like I said, there are lots of fad diets out there trying to tempt you...but if you do your research you will find that there are some great styles of eating and living that are not only logical but also easy! I could go on for days with all the different things you can try, but I don't want to waste your time! Instead I am going to share 2 of my favorite lifestyle choices that are similar in style but slightly different based on your idea of including grains and beans in your diet. Here are the two lifestyles that I feel are a great start for a healthier you, along with some links to blogs that I have found helpful:
Clean Eating:
*Eating food in its natural state
*No white foods (flour, sugar, rice, ect.)
*Avoiding all refined or processed foods
*Lean proteins and healthy fats
*Lots of fruits and veggies, pref organic
*No preservatives, fast foods, or ALCOHOL
*No or limited dairy
The title is pretty self explanitory in this lifestyle of eating. You want to put just clean foods in your body. When you are adding processed and refined foods to your body, it makes it harder for your body to break down the foods. Also by cutting out the processed foods, your body is going to get everything you need out the food you are eating so it doesn't need to store the crap that turns into unwanted weight!
Favorite Sites:
He & She Eat Clean at http://www.heandsheeatclean.com/
*Great recipes, motivation, and fitness tips
Rabbit Food for My Bunny Teeth at http://rabbitfoodformybunnyteeth.com/
*Although she has all vegetarian recipes, still lots of great stuff
The Gracious Pantry at http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/
*TONS of awesome recipes, tips, and information
PALEO:
*Known as "Primal" Eating
*Lots of grass fed lean meats
*Lots of fruits and veggies, pref organic
*Lots of nuts and healthy fats
*Consuming food in its most natural state
*No Sugars, Beans, Grains or Dairy
The premisis for this style of eating is to eat how our primal ancestors ate. Essentially like a caveman! You are going to eat food that we can easily find in nature...no processed foods! The reason for no dairy is because in nature no species consumes dairy in any form after infancy/youth. Since you are eating just nature based foods your body is only taking in what it needs and nothing more, again allowing you to lose weight and detox your system.
Favorite Sites:
Paleo Blocks at http://paleoblocks.blogspot.com/
*Tips, info, and lots of recipes
Multiply Delicious at http://www.multiplydelicious.com/
*An awesome mom that does paleo easy, including weekly menus
Everyday Paleo at http://everydaypaleo.com/
*Lots of easy recipes and motivation
***********************************************************************************
Now that I have shared some of my faves about both of these lifestyles, I want to share about how to be successful with a lifestyle change like this.
First, remember you are human! You will slip up, you will be tempted, you will have cravings and challenges. So embrace this and set yourself up for success not failure. You should go through your pantry and fridge and eliminate items that no longer fit your lifestyle and would just temp you. Think of it as a cleanse for your life and a benefit to your local food pantry!
Second, stop torturning yourself! Understand that when you do have a slip up you need to move on and get back on track. Just because you slip up once doesn't mean you have to give up. Accept it and keep moving forward!
Third, understand that nothing has to be 100%. For myself I try to eat 85% Paleo and 15% Clean Eating. Basically I eat mainly off the paleo standards but allow myself some grains on occassions. I still stick with the guidlines Clean Eating establishes for the grains I allow myself though.
Lastly, you have to allow yourself a splurge or two. If you have been invited out by the girls and you are going out for the evening...set your rules up ahead of time and allow yourself a splurge. Make sure to follow your rules and if you are going to indulge do it right. First decide what your splurge is going to be...for me I love dessert so I want to have an indulgent dessert everyonce in a while. So in order to do this, I make sure to set out my rules for the night so I can reward myself without the guilt. So my rules may be no alcohol, salad with lean protein, and 3-4 glasses of water throughout the meal. Then when I get my dessert I will be less likely to finish it all, and if I do I have set myself up for a healthy beginning to my meal so the splurge isn't as damaging! Now here is the most important thing about a splurge...if you are going to do, do it right. Thats right...splurge on the real thing. Studies show that if you splurge on the full fat, naughty items you wanted, you are less likely to over indulge and feel more satisfied. They have found that if you skimp on your splurge you feel like you not only cheated yourself, but feel guiltier because it didn't even hit the spot like you wanted it to!
So now you have some options to look into! Don't by any means think that these are your only options, but look at them as a start for your research into a healthier you!
Friday, June 22, 2012
10 Super Foods
Whether you want to look good for swimsuit season, get into that super cute pair of jeans, or just drop a pant size...we need to remember that 80% of our success is based in the kitchen and not the gym. Yes, I said the kitchen! No matter how hard you bust your butt in the gym...its still gonna jiggle if you are feeding the wrong foods!
So, what should you feed your body to make sure you aren't destroying your hard work in the gym? Thats where your Super Foods come into play. These are foods that easy-to-eat and full of the nutrients you need to stay healthy. By keeping these items in your kitchen you are going to set yourself up for success. I bet you are dying to know what these super foods are aren't you?!? Well here you go:
I got this list from WebMD.com where they give an in depth reasoning for them being a Super Food:
1. Low-Fat or Fat-Free Plain Yogurt. I like Greek yogurt because of the creamier texture and high amounts of protein. Plus I love how versatile it is in the kitchen. I use it in my smoothies/shakes in the morning, with fruit and honey for a snack, or on top of tacos or enchiladas like sour cream.
2. Eggs. I love to always have hard boiled eggs on hand because they are a quick and easy snack that is packed with protein, low in fat and calories, and just plain tasty! You can make easy omelets, scrambled eggs, and quiches that are all quick and good for you.
3. Nuts. Although they are high in fats, they are good fats that our body really needs. A totally fat-free diet is not good for us. They are great as a snack or to add into your main meal as an alternate source of protein. I like to always have almonds on hand at our house so I can grab some quick or add them to a salad for some crunch.
4. Kiwis. They are full of nutrients and antioxidants, plus super tasty! They are great to eat alone, but also work great in your morning smoothies. Because they can go bad quickly I like to slice them and lay them out on a lined baking sheet and freeze them. After they are frozen I place them in a ziplock bag that I keep in the freezer so I can quick grab a few slices and toss them in my smoothies. I also will toss a few in my water bottle to add a little extra flavor.
5. Quinoa. This is a new super food for me. I have recently started eating this and I am loving it. First it is gluten free which is great for those with Celiac or any other gluten related allergies. Second, it is very versitle and can easily be made to be sweet or savory. You can use it as a side dish, add it to a wrap, or make it a center of your entree.
6. Beans. Beans are usually not on the top of most peoples lists of favorite foods, but trust me they are soo good! You can do so many things with beans! I love them in salads, mexican food, wraps, and even desserts! Yes, I said desserts! I love Black Bean Brownies...you would never guess that they are even in the brownies! Plus added bonus, they are super cheap which is nice on the budget. I recommend getting dried beans so they are easily shelf stable and making them up as you need.
7. Salmon. Now that it is grilling season, this is a great food to have in your diet. You can easily grill it up and make a super delish meal. But remember you can easily make it in the kitchen all year round so don't forget to keep it on your grocery list!
8. Broccoli. Whether its fresh or frozen, broccoli is an amazing food for you. You can eat it raw with a little dipping sauce (use greek yogurt with ranch seasoning to cut out some of the fat and calories and add extra protein), or bake it, broil it, and stir fry it!
9. Sweet Potatoes. These root vegetables are packed with all sorts of amazing nutrients for your body. They are so easy to transform into so many things so you should always have them on hand. Next time at the grocery store grab these instead of standard white potatoes. You can bake them and grill them in wedges for yummy healthy 'fries', or mash into yummy healthy mashed potatoes. I like to also cut them into small chunks and broil them with a little salt and pepper and add them to a salad.
10. Berries. Ok...what is not to love about berries? Low calories, full of antioxidants, and high in
fiber...yes please! And really there is not much you can't do with berries. Just remember nature has already made them sweet, so they dont need a lot of extra sweetners added to them!
Now you have the list...so add them to your grocery list! You can easily add all of these items into your monthly meal planning, and not break the budget so get on it!
So, what should you feed your body to make sure you aren't destroying your hard work in the gym? Thats where your Super Foods come into play. These are foods that easy-to-eat and full of the nutrients you need to stay healthy. By keeping these items in your kitchen you are going to set yourself up for success. I bet you are dying to know what these super foods are aren't you?!? Well here you go:
I got this list from WebMD.com where they give an in depth reasoning for them being a Super Food:
1. Low-Fat or Fat-Free Plain Yogurt. I like Greek yogurt because of the creamier texture and high amounts of protein. Plus I love how versatile it is in the kitchen. I use it in my smoothies/shakes in the morning, with fruit and honey for a snack, or on top of tacos or enchiladas like sour cream.
2. Eggs. I love to always have hard boiled eggs on hand because they are a quick and easy snack that is packed with protein, low in fat and calories, and just plain tasty! You can make easy omelets, scrambled eggs, and quiches that are all quick and good for you.
3. Nuts. Although they are high in fats, they are good fats that our body really needs. A totally fat-free diet is not good for us. They are great as a snack or to add into your main meal as an alternate source of protein. I like to always have almonds on hand at our house so I can grab some quick or add them to a salad for some crunch.
4. Kiwis. They are full of nutrients and antioxidants, plus super tasty! They are great to eat alone, but also work great in your morning smoothies. Because they can go bad quickly I like to slice them and lay them out on a lined baking sheet and freeze them. After they are frozen I place them in a ziplock bag that I keep in the freezer so I can quick grab a few slices and toss them in my smoothies. I also will toss a few in my water bottle to add a little extra flavor.
5. Quinoa. This is a new super food for me. I have recently started eating this and I am loving it. First it is gluten free which is great for those with Celiac or any other gluten related allergies. Second, it is very versitle and can easily be made to be sweet or savory. You can use it as a side dish, add it to a wrap, or make it a center of your entree.
6. Beans. Beans are usually not on the top of most peoples lists of favorite foods, but trust me they are soo good! You can do so many things with beans! I love them in salads, mexican food, wraps, and even desserts! Yes, I said desserts! I love Black Bean Brownies...you would never guess that they are even in the brownies! Plus added bonus, they are super cheap which is nice on the budget. I recommend getting dried beans so they are easily shelf stable and making them up as you need.
7. Salmon. Now that it is grilling season, this is a great food to have in your diet. You can easily grill it up and make a super delish meal. But remember you can easily make it in the kitchen all year round so don't forget to keep it on your grocery list!
8. Broccoli. Whether its fresh or frozen, broccoli is an amazing food for you. You can eat it raw with a little dipping sauce (use greek yogurt with ranch seasoning to cut out some of the fat and calories and add extra protein), or bake it, broil it, and stir fry it!
9. Sweet Potatoes. These root vegetables are packed with all sorts of amazing nutrients for your body. They are so easy to transform into so many things so you should always have them on hand. Next time at the grocery store grab these instead of standard white potatoes. You can bake them and grill them in wedges for yummy healthy 'fries', or mash into yummy healthy mashed potatoes. I like to also cut them into small chunks and broil them with a little salt and pepper and add them to a salad.
10. Berries. Ok...what is not to love about berries? Low calories, full of antioxidants, and high in
fiber...yes please! And really there is not much you can't do with berries. Just remember nature has already made them sweet, so they dont need a lot of extra sweetners added to them!
Now you have the list...so add them to your grocery list! You can easily add all of these items into your monthly meal planning, and not break the budget so get on it!
Friday, June 1, 2012
3 Meals, 1 Night!
If I can save time and make several meals all at once, I am all for it! I like to switch it up and make several variations of the same meal at the same time so I can easily use them in one months meal plan without getting bored! Tonight was one of the nights that I wanted to not only make several meals but wanted to see just how little I could do it for!
Here was my ingredient list:
4 Italian Sausages $2.99 with coupon
1 Bag Spinach $2 on sale
2 Containers Ricotta Cheese $1.29 each with coupon
1 egg $0.14
1 bag Mozzarella Cheese $1.79 on sale
1 box of Penne $0.66 with coupon
1 box Lasagna noodles $0.76 with coupon
1 32 oz jar Marinara $1.50 on sale
1 can Petite Diced Tomatoes $0.50 on sale
Total: $12.92 for 3 meal main dishes...thats $4.31 per main dish!
To start off the meals I removed the casings off the Italian Sausages and browned them in a large pan. Once browned I added the jar of sauce and can of petite diced tomatoes and let simmer. Then boiled the Penne noodles for tonight's dinner. That easy for meal one...Penne Spaghetti!
For the last two I did two 8x8 Lasagnas that I will freeze for later meals. I like to line up all of the ingredients and get them ready before assembling so I got the sauce, spinach, mozzarella cheese, and noodles out. I then mixed the ricotta cheese with one egg and some Italian seasoning. I didn't add that into my meal cost, because we all have that in our pantry anyway!. Then I used the 8x8 GLAD Ovenware pans because they are just so easy to use! First I put a large spoonful of sauce in the bottom of both 8x8 pans. Next I broke the noodles down so I had an even layer above the sauce. After the noodles were in I spread a layer of the ricotta mix on top of the noodles followed by the spinach and mozzarella cheese. Then started again with the sauce and so on. I did 3 layers in each pan to reach the top of the 8x8.
If you did not want to do lasagna, you could easily do stuffed shells or manicotti too. Or even do on lasagna and on stuffed shells by adding just one box of noodles...thats only $0.66 more the what we originally had.
So for just 15 mins more work then I already was doing for the evenings meal, I got 2 additional nights worth of meals! Can you spare 15 mins extra one night a week? If so you can add 104 extra meals into your year of meals!
Here was my ingredient list:
4 Italian Sausages $2.99 with coupon
1 Bag Spinach $2 on sale
2 Containers Ricotta Cheese $1.29 each with coupon
1 egg $0.14
1 bag Mozzarella Cheese $1.79 on sale
1 box of Penne $0.66 with coupon
1 box Lasagna noodles $0.76 with coupon
1 32 oz jar Marinara $1.50 on sale
1 can Petite Diced Tomatoes $0.50 on sale
Total: $12.92 for 3 meal main dishes...thats $4.31 per main dish!
To start off the meals I removed the casings off the Italian Sausages and browned them in a large pan. Once browned I added the jar of sauce and can of petite diced tomatoes and let simmer. Then boiled the Penne noodles for tonight's dinner. That easy for meal one...Penne Spaghetti!
For the last two I did two 8x8 Lasagnas that I will freeze for later meals. I like to line up all of the ingredients and get them ready before assembling so I got the sauce, spinach, mozzarella cheese, and noodles out. I then mixed the ricotta cheese with one egg and some Italian seasoning. I didn't add that into my meal cost, because we all have that in our pantry anyway!. Then I used the 8x8 GLAD Ovenware pans because they are just so easy to use! First I put a large spoonful of sauce in the bottom of both 8x8 pans. Next I broke the noodles down so I had an even layer above the sauce. After the noodles were in I spread a layer of the ricotta mix on top of the noodles followed by the spinach and mozzarella cheese. Then started again with the sauce and so on. I did 3 layers in each pan to reach the top of the 8x8.
If you did not want to do lasagna, you could easily do stuffed shells or manicotti too. Or even do on lasagna and on stuffed shells by adding just one box of noodles...thats only $0.66 more the what we originally had.
So for just 15 mins more work then I already was doing for the evenings meal, I got 2 additional nights worth of meals! Can you spare 15 mins extra one night a week? If so you can add 104 extra meals into your year of meals!
So GLAD!
I am a huge fan of planning my meals and making meals ahead of time to save not only time but money! If you can buy in bulk and get the meals made for a lot less and just freeze them, why wouldn't you? So the issue most people run into is how do I freeze my meals in a safe way, and keep them organized in my freezer? My solution...Glad Ovenware! It is by far my favorite Freezer Meal Planning item!
These oven safe 8x8 and 9x13 pans are perfect for meal planning and freezer meals! They are safe in both the freezer and the oven, they wash up nicely, and they stack wonderfully! So simply make your meals in the ovenware, let cool to room temperature, and then label and place in the freezer! Your set and ready to go! I simply place a piece of clear tape on top and write what I have inside so that I can easily remove the label and reuse the ovenware!
So where do you find these awesome jems? Well so far the only store that I have found them in is the Hy-Vee's in Sioux Falls, SD. BUT they are making there way into more and more stores! They are usually located right by the foil, sandwich bags, and other reusable bowls. If you don't have a store near you though, you can easily order them online via Amazon and directly through the GLAD website. I was able to get mine for $2.99 for 2 9x13s or $2.99 for 3 8x8s! Since they are reusable that is a great deal!
Best part is they are good for more then just making dinners! I use them for making bars and then freeze them. This way I can have bars on hand, and off the counter where I would munch on them every time I enter my kitchen!
These oven safe 8x8 and 9x13 pans are perfect for meal planning and freezer meals! They are safe in both the freezer and the oven, they wash up nicely, and they stack wonderfully! So simply make your meals in the ovenware, let cool to room temperature, and then label and place in the freezer! Your set and ready to go! I simply place a piece of clear tape on top and write what I have inside so that I can easily remove the label and reuse the ovenware!
So where do you find these awesome jems? Well so far the only store that I have found them in is the Hy-Vee's in Sioux Falls, SD. BUT they are making there way into more and more stores! They are usually located right by the foil, sandwich bags, and other reusable bowls. If you don't have a store near you though, you can easily order them online via Amazon and directly through the GLAD website. I was able to get mine for $2.99 for 2 9x13s or $2.99 for 3 8x8s! Since they are reusable that is a great deal!
Best part is they are good for more then just making dinners! I use them for making bars and then freeze them. This way I can have bars on hand, and off the counter where I would munch on them every time I enter my kitchen!
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
5lbs is not always 5lbs!
We all know we should eat our fruits and vegetables, but they can easily turn into a budget buster. Especially because it is incredibly rare to find coupons for fresh produce. So how do you save your pennies when this is such an important staple? Here are a few tricks I love to use to save all the pennies I can:
Weigh your options:
As you look through your produce department, chances are you will find individual items and bulk bagged items. As I said before I like to break things down based on per ounce costs to find out which is the better deal...usually buying individual is the better deal with produce because it can spoil quickly and if it isn't used, you just lost that cost. BUT there are instances when you should buy the bulk bag. Such as with items like potatoes, onions, and apples. Reason being is they last longer then your regular produce, they can be put in multiple items and freeze up in things well. Example: use the potatoes in your freezer meals or the apples in a pie to freeze or make up apple sauce.
PLUS when you can get the bulk bag at a great price, it will break down to cheaper per pound costs then the individual. Now here is the big tip...WEIGH THE BAGS!! Yes it is labeled as a 5lb or 3lb bag...but I promise that is not the exact amount in the bag! Usually you will find that you can get as much as .25 to .75 lbs more then what the bag is labeled as. THAT IS FREE PRODUCE! Take advantage of this and weigh several bags before selecting your bag! And to be honest, I do this will all produce that is packaged and sold as a unit. If I am going to spend I want the best price!
Local is better:
When possible get your produce at your local Farmers Markets! Trust me, you will get better prices and better tasting produce! Do your research first though...find out what is in season so you get it at the best price! Also bring cash...most do not take credit cards or checks so cash is the way to go! I also like to bring my own bags so I am not wasting plastic bags at each vendor.
When shopping at Farmers Markets, pay attention to what you can get for bundled prices. Some vendors will lump items together so you can get a better deal. Also walk the vendors first before just jumping on the first table. Chances are there is another vendor with the same product at a better price! Lastly...get there early! The early bird really does get the worm when in comes to Farmers Markets! The best deals and produce will be snatched up early so get in on it by shopping early!
Need to find a Farmers Market near you? Check out http://www.localharvest.org/ to find one close to you!
Store Correctly:
Not all veggies and fruit should be stored in the same way. Some need to be refrigerated, some should set out on the counter, and some should be in a cool dark place like a pantry. Know where everything goes so you get the best bang for your buck out of your produce purchases! Plus learn tricks that will keep items fresher longer.
One trick I have learned is to freeze certain fruits that I know we don't eat as quickly. I use a parchment lined sheet pan to freeze fruit by placing various berries, sliced and peeled kiwi, and sliced and peeled bananas on it and in the freezer. Make sure to do them in a single layer so they freeze evenly. Once frozen place in a large freezer bag and keep in the freezer. Perfect for smoothies, on top of yogurt, and even in cereal! The kids love the unexpected frozen pop while eating in the morning!
Prep right away:
When I purchase my produce I like to cut up items right away that I may not use if it wasn't already prepped. I do this with veggies such as peppers, onions, mushrooms, broccoli, and zucchini. I store them in easily stacked containers so they are ready for easy lunches and to be added to my meals for the week. This again will save you time, plus you will find if it is cut up and ready to go, you will use them more often! This is awesome for wraps at lunch, or salads!
Now you have no excuse to not get your daily veggies and fruits in!
Weigh your options:
As you look through your produce department, chances are you will find individual items and bulk bagged items. As I said before I like to break things down based on per ounce costs to find out which is the better deal...usually buying individual is the better deal with produce because it can spoil quickly and if it isn't used, you just lost that cost. BUT there are instances when you should buy the bulk bag. Such as with items like potatoes, onions, and apples. Reason being is they last longer then your regular produce, they can be put in multiple items and freeze up in things well. Example: use the potatoes in your freezer meals or the apples in a pie to freeze or make up apple sauce.
PLUS when you can get the bulk bag at a great price, it will break down to cheaper per pound costs then the individual. Now here is the big tip...WEIGH THE BAGS!! Yes it is labeled as a 5lb or 3lb bag...but I promise that is not the exact amount in the bag! Usually you will find that you can get as much as .25 to .75 lbs more then what the bag is labeled as. THAT IS FREE PRODUCE! Take advantage of this and weigh several bags before selecting your bag! And to be honest, I do this will all produce that is packaged and sold as a unit. If I am going to spend I want the best price!
Local is better:
When possible get your produce at your local Farmers Markets! Trust me, you will get better prices and better tasting produce! Do your research first though...find out what is in season so you get it at the best price! Also bring cash...most do not take credit cards or checks so cash is the way to go! I also like to bring my own bags so I am not wasting plastic bags at each vendor.
When shopping at Farmers Markets, pay attention to what you can get for bundled prices. Some vendors will lump items together so you can get a better deal. Also walk the vendors first before just jumping on the first table. Chances are there is another vendor with the same product at a better price! Lastly...get there early! The early bird really does get the worm when in comes to Farmers Markets! The best deals and produce will be snatched up early so get in on it by shopping early!
Need to find a Farmers Market near you? Check out http://www.localharvest.org/ to find one close to you!
Store Correctly:
Not all veggies and fruit should be stored in the same way. Some need to be refrigerated, some should set out on the counter, and some should be in a cool dark place like a pantry. Know where everything goes so you get the best bang for your buck out of your produce purchases! Plus learn tricks that will keep items fresher longer.
One trick I have learned is to freeze certain fruits that I know we don't eat as quickly. I use a parchment lined sheet pan to freeze fruit by placing various berries, sliced and peeled kiwi, and sliced and peeled bananas on it and in the freezer. Make sure to do them in a single layer so they freeze evenly. Once frozen place in a large freezer bag and keep in the freezer. Perfect for smoothies, on top of yogurt, and even in cereal! The kids love the unexpected frozen pop while eating in the morning!
Prep right away:
When I purchase my produce I like to cut up items right away that I may not use if it wasn't already prepped. I do this with veggies such as peppers, onions, mushrooms, broccoli, and zucchini. I store them in easily stacked containers so they are ready for easy lunches and to be added to my meals for the week. This again will save you time, plus you will find if it is cut up and ready to go, you will use them more often! This is awesome for wraps at lunch, or salads!
Now you have no excuse to not get your daily veggies and fruits in!
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Saving with Whole Chickens
We all want to speed up the time we spend in the kitchen, and sometimes that means we cut corners by buying premade meals and boxed meals. Although this can speed up your time in the kitchen, it usually means not that great flavors, added preservatives, and sometimes even more work then a good home cooked meal! So how do you have the best of both worlds? Whole Roasted Chickens! Now I am not saying that this is going to be as quick as a box of Mac'n'Cheese the first time you do this, but trust me it gets to be a quick and easy process that will promise to help make your cooking faster all week long! Plus added bonus, this is a very cost effective fix for quick meals!
I will buy whole roasting chickens whenever they go on sale...this way I usually pay $0.69-$0.89 a pound compared to $2.50+ per pound of boneless skinless chicken breast. I simply toss the chickens in the freezer until I need to restock my chicken stockpile. When it is time to restock I take the whole chickens (I like to do 2 chickens at a time to save future time!) and place them in a sink full of cold water. I usually can defrost them fully in about 3 hours that way. You can take them out the day before and place them in the fridge to defrost also.
Once defrosted, I place in my roasting pan on a bed of carrots, onions, celery, pepper, or whatever left over veggies I have left over at the end of the week. You do not need the veggies though, I simply like to do this on Sundays so I usually have veggies that need to be used up and figure why not add them in! I also put salt, pepper, and our favorite grill seasoning on the chickens (Chef Mates, found at HyVee). I sprinkle them inside the cavity of the chicken and on top of the chicken. Then I put the lid on (or foil) and place in the oven for roasting. Depending on the size and your days plans you can roast them low and slow or as high as 350 for 45 mins or so. There are usually tips right on the packaging for best cooking times and temps.
After the chickens have finished cooking I remove them from the oven and let cool to room temperature before taking on the breaking down task. This is usually when I go shopping for the next weeks worth of groceries...got use every minute productively! Once they are cooled its time to dive in and break them down. I find my hands work the best...simply pull the skin back and start pulling the meat out.
I will buy whole roasting chickens whenever they go on sale...this way I usually pay $0.69-$0.89 a pound compared to $2.50+ per pound of boneless skinless chicken breast. I simply toss the chickens in the freezer until I need to restock my chicken stockpile. When it is time to restock I take the whole chickens (I like to do 2 chickens at a time to save future time!) and place them in a sink full of cold water. I usually can defrost them fully in about 3 hours that way. You can take them out the day before and place them in the fridge to defrost also.
Once defrosted, I place in my roasting pan on a bed of carrots, onions, celery, pepper, or whatever left over veggies I have left over at the end of the week. You do not need the veggies though, I simply like to do this on Sundays so I usually have veggies that need to be used up and figure why not add them in! I also put salt, pepper, and our favorite grill seasoning on the chickens (Chef Mates, found at HyVee). I sprinkle them inside the cavity of the chicken and on top of the chicken. Then I put the lid on (or foil) and place in the oven for roasting. Depending on the size and your days plans you can roast them low and slow or as high as 350 for 45 mins or so. There are usually tips right on the packaging for best cooking times and temps.
After the chickens have finished cooking I remove them from the oven and let cool to room temperature before taking on the breaking down task. This is usually when I go shopping for the next weeks worth of groceries...got use every minute productively! Once they are cooled its time to dive in and break them down. I find my hands work the best...simply pull the skin back and start pulling the meat out.
After you have all the meat pulled off you can toss the bones or use them for stock...that recipe will be posted later! I like to shred the chicken, but you can also cut it into cubes. I break it down and usually can get 3 different uses out of one chicken. Depending on how my freezer looks, I will either start making meals right away with it or I will package it up into containers and freeze the meat on its own. It's always nice to have chicken on hand for last minute meals, quick made potluck/party meals, and for sandwiches/wraps.
Here are some uses that our family loves:
Freezer Meals:
Chicken Enchilada Lasgna
Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Various Chicken Burritos
Chicken Noodle Soup
Potluck/Party Meals:
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Chicken Tacos
BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Sandwiches/Wraps:
Ceaser Chicken Salad
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Ranch Chicken Sandwiches
Crescent Braids:
Chicken Ranch BLT
Chicken Enchilada
Chicken Pot Pie
Don't worry, I will be adding all of these recipes as I keep the posts coming!
Pizza Freezer Burritos
In the morning, you have more things on your mind then what am I going to pack for lunch! So why not make that decision a little easier? I recommend having a freezer stocked with ready to grab lunches that are quick and easy. I am not talking about the boxed freezer meals you buy at the store...these are way better and plus nicer on the pocket book! I have many variations but here is our family's current favorite:
PIZZA FREEZER BURRITOS:
2 Jars Pizza Sauce (or 3-4 cups homemade marinara sauce)
3 Cups Uncooked Rice (I didnt use instant but you can, just adjust cooking time)
1 pkg Turkey Pepperoni
1 Cup browned Italian Sausage (I like Johnsonvilles Chicken & Pork)
12 Tortillas
1 bag Shredded Mozz Cheese
Favorite Pizza toppings if wanted (diced green peppers, onions, mushrooms, ect)
Pour jar of pizza sauce (or half of your marinara sauce) into pot along with the jar refilled with water 2x. (three jars worth of sauce and water). Bring to a boil and add rice. Stir well and reduce heat to simmer (I shut the burner off) and cover. I stir occassionally to prevent sticking. Let cook for 20 mins. When finished let rice completly cool.
After letting cool, add remaining sauce to rice mixture...this is a new step, we found it just added so much more flavor to the burritos!
Next is making the burritos!
I set up as an assembly line and get everything ready to go so I can crank them all out at once! I rip out 12 pieces of aluminum foil that are slightly bigger then the tortilla shells. I prefer heavy duty aluminum foil, but havent found a big difference between Renyolds vs Target Brand. Then it is time to assemble! I use a large spoon and place about 3 scoops of rice in the middle of the tortilla, and layer the desired toppings. You can do what ever toppings you like, even customize each one based on your families needs!
After filling you will want to start the wrapping process. This isn't tough but you will want to make sure you do it right so it freezes well and doesn't fall apart! To start you will fold the sides in over the filling:
Then you simply roll them tight, and lable them. I use a marker to write whats in them! I line them up on a sheet pan in one level and place in the freezer to freeze overnight. Once fully frozen I place them in a large ziplock bag labeled with the type of burrito and the dates.
When the hunger strikes you, simply take the burrito out of the freezer and heat. If your burrito has defrosted in your lunch box, remove from foil, and micro on high for 2 mins and turning after one minute. If it is frozen, unwrap and microwave for 4 minutes again flipping after each minute. You can also bake these to reheat, 350 degrees for 30-35 mins should get them nice and toasty!
PIZZA FREEZER BURRITOS:
2 Jars Pizza Sauce (or 3-4 cups homemade marinara sauce)
3 Cups Uncooked Rice (I didnt use instant but you can, just adjust cooking time)
1 pkg Turkey Pepperoni
1 Cup browned Italian Sausage (I like Johnsonvilles Chicken & Pork)
12 Tortillas
1 bag Shredded Mozz Cheese
Favorite Pizza toppings if wanted (diced green peppers, onions, mushrooms, ect)
Pour jar of pizza sauce (or half of your marinara sauce) into pot along with the jar refilled with water 2x. (three jars worth of sauce and water). Bring to a boil and add rice. Stir well and reduce heat to simmer (I shut the burner off) and cover. I stir occassionally to prevent sticking. Let cook for 20 mins. When finished let rice completly cool.
After letting cool, add remaining sauce to rice mixture...this is a new step, we found it just added so much more flavor to the burritos!
Next is making the burritos!
I set up as an assembly line and get everything ready to go so I can crank them all out at once! I rip out 12 pieces of aluminum foil that are slightly bigger then the tortilla shells. I prefer heavy duty aluminum foil, but havent found a big difference between Renyolds vs Target Brand. Then it is time to assemble! I use a large spoon and place about 3 scoops of rice in the middle of the tortilla, and layer the desired toppings. You can do what ever toppings you like, even customize each one based on your families needs!
After filling you will want to start the wrapping process. This isn't tough but you will want to make sure you do it right so it freezes well and doesn't fall apart! To start you will fold the sides in over the filling:
Next start at the bottom of the tortilla and roll forward, making sure to tighten the tortilla around your filling:
Then start wrapping the foil around the burrito, I start from the sides and then the bottom like I did with the tortilla itself:
Then you simply roll them tight, and lable them. I use a marker to write whats in them! I line them up on a sheet pan in one level and place in the freezer to freeze overnight. Once fully frozen I place them in a large ziplock bag labeled with the type of burrito and the dates.
When the hunger strikes you, simply take the burrito out of the freezer and heat. If your burrito has defrosted in your lunch box, remove from foil, and micro on high for 2 mins and turning after one minute. If it is frozen, unwrap and microwave for 4 minutes again flipping after each minute. You can also bake these to reheat, 350 degrees for 30-35 mins should get them nice and toasty!
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