Eating out is expensive and often less healthy than making dinner at home. In the summer months, it’s so tempting to meet friends at an outdoor restaurant, have a few drinks, and enjoy a nice meal. Unfortunately, too many nights out can be detrimental to your budget. With a little planning, however, you can eat healthy, inexpensive meals and even invite friends over to enjoy them with you.
Spending a few hours over the weekend to prepare food can lead to stress-free meals that are ready when you stomach starts to grumble. Try things such as washing and cutting vegetables for the following week. This time of the year there are so many great fruits and veggies to choose from. Cook a chicken and use it as part of a meal, in salads, and to make sandwiches. Also, stock up on cooked rice and prepare a pot of beans. Both go so well with any meal and store in the fridge for days. If time permits, you can even make sauces such as marinades, yogurt sauces, vinaigrettes, etc.
Discover over 80 budget-friendly and delicious recipes here: Budget Bytes
We would also like to showcase our resources of the month that could help you with checking things off of your grocery list:
- United Way's Mobile Market: Increased access to healthy food in neighborhoods of New Bedford and Wareham. This free farmer’s market allows residents to choose produce that suits their family's needs. Click here to learn more and register.
- HIP Program: A SNAP benefit that promotes access to fresh produce. Discover more about how you can earn money back when purchasing healthy local fruits and vegetables from HIP Farm Vendors. Click here for all the details about HIP.
Feel free to contact us with any questions about our blog or the resources mentioned. With a few simple preparations, you can save money and enjoy wholesome meals. Bon Appétit!