Your Freezer Can Save You Thousands

As more families cut back on expenses and train themselves to stick to a budget, it is the unnecessary items that are usually the first things to go. Going to the movies, buying designer clothes, and other non-essentials will be stricken from the budget. But when it comes to eating, many consumer feel they have to eat and feel that dining out is ‘not so bad’. However, when you are not eating at home, you are spending unnecessary cash. All too often families choose eating out because there is no time during a hectic day. It’s easier to swing through the drive-thru than prepare a home-cooked family meal.

Enter The Freezer

That is where your freezer and time management skills come into play. Those who think it is impossible to skip out on restaurant lunches and dinners may be missing out on more important things than money – such as quality time with the family or friends. Cooking at home can be painless and even fun. Your freezer can help ensure you always have something on hand to make food preparation a piece of cake.

Using What You Have

Your pantry can be stocked rather inexpensively with essential items and it’s possible what you have in there right now can be turned into some great meal ideas. Start with a simple cookbook that you borrow from the library or a friend. Choose some ideas you like and list the main ingredients for several recipes at a time. Pay special attention to recipes that include what you already have on hand.

Preparing Ahead of Time

There are many recipes for dishes that freeze well and can be reheated in less than 30 minutes. Plan a day when the family can get together to prepare a few dishes to freeze. It can be a great way to spend a weekend afternoon and everyone can lend a hand to making food. Make several dishes at a time. Consider different casseroles as a meal option. You can also use the time to prepare ingredients for other meals you can not freeze entirely such as ground meat for tacos or chicken for stir fry. Slice up vegetables that freeze well so you’ll always have nutritious ingredients to compliment the meal.

Store Correctly

When you have created several meals, make sure that you have the right supplies to store the food safely. There are many reusable, freezer-safe containers, baggies, and wraps that can be purchased which prevent freezer burn. Be sure to seal the containers or bags tightly. Tape an index card of reheating directions to the top of the container so you’ll know just what to do when it comes time for dinner.

Plan Weekly Menus

In addition to the day set aside for meal prep, it’s always a good idea to plan out a weekly menu. Use your grocery store sales fliers to see what is on sale each week and used the sale items as a basis for your dishes. Clip coupons and shop for one week’s menu at a time to prevent overspending or unnecessary purchases. Your menu will not only help you save on groceries, it also helps from a time management perspective as you no longer have to spend time wondering what to eat and it discourages you to from heading out to the local restaurant. Save our weekly menus for future reference and store them along with favorite recipes in your own family cookbook.