Admitting it is the first step to recovery right?
I am addicted to coupon shopping. It is SO MUCH FUN! I have dreams about it - usually stressful ones that entail not being able to get a deal because something is out of stock. I check blogs and websites several times a day because I just have to know right now what the current deals are. I don't want to miss an opportunity at a great coupon or freebie. It is starting to consume too much of my life. I need help! Today I made my first trip to Walgreens to exploit all of their great deals and I did pretty good. I got over $5o worth of stuff for about $11 - not bad. But, not perfect either - there are people who manage to make money while shopping at Walgreens (and other places too). How do they do it?! I know that I will not be getting over my addiction anytime soon, because my drive to be like all of these amazing thrifty moms out there is too strong. Hopefully I can figure out how to be more efficient at all this so that it will take up less time and energy. Maybe then, it can be moved to the back burner and not be the focus of every waking thought (only slightly an exageration).
If you'd like to join me in my addiction, I've posted links to a few of my favorite money saving sites on the right side of my blog. I won't even try to explain this whole crazy underground world of coupon shopping, there are many other people who are much better at it than I. I just follow their lead and try to keep up. It is a lot of fun and I do get a thrill out of saving money. But there are a lot of other thrilling things to experience in life too. Coupons should be the means to an end and not the end it self. Hopefully I can find a way to have a life after coupon shopping.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Adventures in Babysting
Last week I babysat 5 of my cousins while my aunt and uncle were on a cruise in the Caribbean. What a crazy week! Their 5 plus my 2 meant that overnight I was the mother of 7 kids, which I learned, is probably more than I can handle. It was an exciting week complete with an act of vandalism, a broken finger, 6 stitches, a concussion, hair curling, an overflowing bubble bath, middle of the night wakings, more hair curling, countless potty training accidents, a birthday, and even more hair curling and all of the other "regular" things that go along with a house full of kids. While there were a lot of stressful happenings, it was a lot of fun too. There is something really great about a house full of kids with all their energy and enthusiasm. It was a valuable experience because I discovered some things that I definitely want to do as a parent and things I don't want to do. While my Aunt and I have different parenting styles, watching her kids kind of gave me a preview of what my life could be like in a few years. I was able to see what I liked and what I didn't. Now I can make better decisions about how I want my home to be run.
Last week was wonderful too because Fred was there with me most of the time. There is nothing I love more than spending time with family at home (well, maybe spending time with family at Disneyland). We did simple things like playing silly games, hide-and-seek, basketball, talking and joking over dinner, watching movies together, reading books and just enjoying each other. It was nice to get back to basics and focus on the simple things that make us happy - making memories as a family. It's these times that me realize how little we truly need in this world. I think we put too much emphasis on having things (clothes, furniture, electronics, toys, etc). When really, it's not these things that make us happy. The experiences that we have with our loved ones make us happy and those experiences and the relationships that come out of them are what we can take with us into our next life. We all need to slow down every once in a while so that we can make sure that the best parts of life aren't passing us by.
Last week was wonderful too because Fred was there with me most of the time. There is nothing I love more than spending time with family at home (well, maybe spending time with family at Disneyland). We did simple things like playing silly games, hide-and-seek, basketball, talking and joking over dinner, watching movies together, reading books and just enjoying each other. It was nice to get back to basics and focus on the simple things that make us happy - making memories as a family. It's these times that me realize how little we truly need in this world. I think we put too much emphasis on having things (clothes, furniture, electronics, toys, etc). When really, it's not these things that make us happy. The experiences that we have with our loved ones make us happy and those experiences and the relationships that come out of them are what we can take with us into our next life. We all need to slow down every once in a while so that we can make sure that the best parts of life aren't passing us by.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Check this out!
My husband just finished the website for his company Redavus Home Improvement. It looks great - check it out:
http://www.redavus.com/index.php
http://www.redavus.com/index.php
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Something from Nothing
Since becoming a SAHM I've tried my best to keep our household expenses down. This requires a lot of creativity, hard work and time. One of the things that I have become quite good at is making something out of nothing. There are several things that I have made out of objects that would normally end up in the garbage can (or recycling bin).
Another thing I made was a set of drums for my son out of empty canisters. I saved canisters from hot chocolate, french fried onions, chow mien noodles, baking soda etc - anything that came in a metal canister. I used some nail polish remover with acetone to take off the date and lot number stamps. Then I primed the outside with white primer and then let my son go to town painting them (he had so much fun and it was a great snowy day activity). Once they were dry, I linked them all together with twisty ties and secured them with a dollop of glue. My husband made drumsticks out of a dowel. And they were ready to be banged on. They definitely make a lot of noise, but I really don't mind it - my son has such a great time playing with them and seeing the smile on his face makes me forget about all the noise.
The first thing that I made was a step stool out of a cardboard strawber
ry flat and toilet paper rolls. Sounds bizarre huh? But, it works really well - the TP rolls are very strong when lined up vertically and it makes a great step stool for my son. I cut the cardboard box at 1/3 the length. Filled the underside of both pieces with rows of TP rolls - they actually fit perfectly - the right height and width. I secured the steps together with duct tape and primed and painted it. In hindsight, I wouldn't paint it white - it gets dirty too fast. It is amazingly strong - I've used it a couple times to reach something high in a cupboard (although I try not to use it - I don't want to test its strength too much)
ry flat and toilet paper rolls. Sounds bizarre huh? But, it works really well - the TP rolls are very strong when lined up vertically and it makes a great step stool for my son. I cut the cardboard box at 1/3 the length. Filled the underside of both pieces with rows of TP rolls - they actually fit perfectly - the right height and width. I secured the steps together with duct tape and primed and painted it. In hindsight, I wouldn't paint it white - it gets dirty too fast. It is amazingly strong - I've used it a couple times to reach something high in a cupboard (although I try not to use it - I don't want to test its strength too much)
Another thing I made was a set of drums for my son out of empty canisters. I saved canisters from hot chocolate, french fried onions, chow mien noodles, baking soda etc - anything that came in a metal canister. I used some nail polish remover with acetone to take off the date and lot number stamps. Then I primed the outside with white primer and then let my son go to town painting them (he had so much fun and it was a great snowy day activity). Once they were dry, I linked them all together with twisty ties and secured them with a dollop of glue. My husband made drumsticks out of a dowel. And they were ready to be banged on. They definitely make a lot of noise, but I really don't mind it - my son has such a great time playing with them and seeing the smile on his face makes me forget about all the noise.One last example is a set of blocks that I made out of 1/2 gallon soy milk cartons. After finishing 
a carton, I washed it out with soap and water, cut the top off and let it dry out. Then I stuck 2 of them together - one inside the other. Once we'd assembled a lot of them (about 50), we primed and painted them (it took 2 coats to completely cover the pictures on the carton). It took a while, but it was a great time for my husband and I to sit and talk with each other. My son loves them - he builds forts and plays in them, but eventually decides that knocking over the blocks is more fun than playing in the fort.
a carton, I washed it out with soap and water, cut the top off and let it dry out. Then I stuck 2 of them together - one inside the other. Once we'd assembled a lot of them (about 50), we primed and painted them (it took 2 coats to completely cover the pictures on the carton). It took a while, but it was a great time for my husband and I to sit and talk with each other. My son loves them - he builds forts and plays in them, but eventually decides that knocking over the blocks is more fun than playing in the fort.These are just a few examples of things that I have made out of stuff that would otherwise be discarded. There are several other small things that I have also made, but I don't want this post to go on for forever. I also have several more items that I want to make: a basketball hoop for my son's room, a recipe book holder, a checkers game and a trashcan for my son's room. I'll let you know how those turn out when I'm done. None of these are very big things. I know a woman who made a whole kitchen play set out of cardboard for her kids while her husband was in medical school. Now that's awesome!
I love doing this for several reasons. #1 - it saves money! #2 - I get a great sense of accomplishment from making things myself #3 - it is fun to be creative and think of new ways to use things #4 - it teaches my son valuable lessons (frugality, creativity, problem solving, hard work) #5 - just like anything hand made (meals, gifts etc) there is more love and meaning behind it. #6 - kids are hard on things and I worry much less about my son ruining things when I know it didn't cost me anything
This all may seem a little ghetto and very time consuming, but to me, living frugally and having financial freedom is more important than having my home filled with the best things. We all have to make choices as to how to spend our money. I like to spend as little money as possible. This may not be your point of view, and that's fine. But, if you're like me and want to cut your expenses as much as possible I hope I've given you a few good ideas that you can do yourself or help inspire some of your own. If you want to replicate any of these and have any questions let me know. Or, if you have your own genius uses for items that would normally be discarded let me know too, I'm always looking for more ways to save money.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Delightful and yet a little disturbing
I am a San Diego girl and as such I do not care for Utah winters. I have lived here in Provo for almost 12 years and have learned to live with them, but don't enjoy them. I am delighting in the 60 degree weather that we are experiencing right now. I think it is WONDERFUL. But disturbing at the same time - it is not supposed to be this warm in March in Provo (especially when we had such a warm fall). I know winter has not had it's last hurrah and we will probably have several freak snow storms in May and June. Signs of the Times, my friends - seasons getting all skiwankulated (wonderful word huh?) It does make me want to be a little "greener" - my current goal: to get into the habit of unplugging appliances and turning off power strips before going to bed. It's a simple thing that can really make a difference. That resolution being made, I'm going to make the most of this blissful weather while it lasts and enjoy every minute of it. I'm heading outside to run around with my energetic 2 year old boy. Have a wonderful day!
Loaves and Fishes
We have our own little Loaves and Fishes miracles going on at our house. Money has been very tight lately and I've found myself praying a lot that we'll be able to get by. And the Lord is answering our prayers in many ways. Here's just a couple.
First, we have not bought diapers since the end of December! How have they lasted this long? I couldn't tell you. And we'll probably have enough to get through this month. 3 months from 1 box of diapers (it is a Sam's Club box, so it's big, but still). What?!
Second, over a month ago our printer said that it was out of black ink and that we needed to replace the cartridge. The little picture showed the ink level at 0. But, there's always more ink in the cartridge after it says this so we don't replace it until it stops printing completely. We have been printing and printing and printing and printing and there is still black ink. I have printed zillions of on-line coupons and recipes. Fred has printed who knows how much stuff for his business. Somehow we have not needed to replace the cartridge.
I say it's a miracle :o)
First, we have not bought diapers since the end of December! How have they lasted this long? I couldn't tell you. And we'll probably have enough to get through this month. 3 months from 1 box of diapers (it is a Sam's Club box, so it's big, but still). What?!
Second, over a month ago our printer said that it was out of black ink and that we needed to replace the cartridge. The little picture showed the ink level at 0. But, there's always more ink in the cartridge after it says this so we don't replace it until it stops printing completely. We have been printing and printing and printing and printing and there is still black ink. I have printed zillions of on-line coupons and recipes. Fred has printed who knows how much stuff for his business. Somehow we have not needed to replace the cartridge.
I say it's a miracle :o)
Happiness Is...
When you're almost 3 year old says, "Yes, celery! I love it! Dada, celery!" as you're putting celery sticks down on the dinner table.
When you're husband asks to take the blanket you spent almost 50 hours crocheting upstairs to bed because he loves how warm and cozy it is.
When your nursing 6 month old baby is so excited to see you (and your food) that he buries himself into you the second you sit down.
When you get 12 bars of Johnson and Johsnson's buddies soap for $.44. Thanks moneysavingmom!
When you make Rubio's fish burritos in your very own kitchen for a fraction of the cost (not exactly the same but still really, really tasty).
Watching your son talk to his Grandparents on the webcam.
When you're husband asks to take the blanket you spent almost 50 hours crocheting upstairs to bed because he loves how warm and cozy it is.
When your nursing 6 month old baby is so excited to see you (and your food) that he buries himself into you the second you sit down.
When you get 12 bars of Johnson and Johsnson's buddies soap for $.44. Thanks moneysavingmom!When you make Rubio's fish burritos in your very own kitchen for a fraction of the cost (not exactly the same but still really, really tasty).
Watching your son talk to his Grandparents on the webcam.
Super Juice
I've heard of green smoothies from several sources and always thought it sounded totally gross, very weird, freakishly healthy, and just completely bizarre. But, I am now a believer. I saw on moneysavingmom that she was making them one week and decided to give 'em a try. Basically there is no end to the combination of flavors that you can make, but we always start ours the same way.
I add 1 cup vanilla soy milk and 1 cup juice (usually orange or pineapple) to the blender (we've added coconut milk a couple of times too).
I put in 2 large handfuls of fresh spinach and blend it up until it is almost completely smooth.
Then I add the fruit - I always do 4 servings. We've added apples, bananas, kiwi, blueberries, strawberries and pineapple. I always add half an avocado too, which sounds icky but you can't taste it at all and avocados are soooooooooooo good for you.
Sometimes if the fruit isn't ripe enough we'll add 1 Tbs or so of Splenda to help sweeten it up.
Blend it all up and serve - it makes 2 large glasses and 1 small one for Hunter. 
We call it Super Juice because to a 2 year old boy, anything with the word "Super" in it is automatically cool. You can't taste the spinach in it at all, but you get all the health benefits of eating it. These smoothies have made such a difference in my day. I have a lot more energy and don't get hungry before lunch. Hunter loves it too - he gets so excited when I tell him that his Super Juice is ready. I'm telling you, you have to try it.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Consider yourself Welcome and Warned...
Over the last couple months I've had a continuous dialogue running through my head of things that I would blog about if I had a blog. Procrastination being one of my most prominent attributes lead me to delay putting pen to paper, so to speak, and my running dialogue continued to grow, threatening my already borderline sanity. I don't know why I seem to think that the world needs to hear this jumbled maze of thoughts, but for several reasons I decided to start blogging. For one, I do feel that from time to time I happen upon genius ideas that would be great for others to know - not for vanity sake, but because it might just make their life a little better. For another, I have a lot of goals that are not being realized and blogging about them will hold me accountable for my progress (hopefully) or the lack there of. And, I thoroughly enjoy reading others' blogs and thought that I should share the love and hopefully other people will enjoy reading my blog as well. Finally, I have never been a prolific journaler and I hope that blogging will help me overcome this fault and allow me to share our lives with the friends and family that we love so much. Consider this an introduction, and maybe a warning, to my new life as a blogger.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Eggs and Hashbrowns with Spinach Mornay Sauce
We love to have breakfast for dinner at our house - in fact we have it once a week. Eggs are an inexpensive protein, so it help keeps our grocery bill down. And we just love breakfast food. This recipe is adapted from this Emeril Lagasse recipe. I really didn't change a whole lot, my version is just less sophisticated in presentation (ie easier to prepare). You can find my recipe here.
Eggs - $.99 / dozen at Smith's, used 4 - total - $.33
Potatoes - $1.79 / 10 lb bag, used about 1 lb - total - $.18
Cheese - $1.00 as part of promo at Smith's, used $1/2 coupon - total - $.50
Butter - I use butter so infrequently that I honestly can't remember what I spent on it (I do know it was on sale), so let's just say it was $.10
Milk - $1.50 / gal at Smith's, used $.75 coupon - total for 1 gal - $.75, used 1 cup - total - $.05
Flour - bought a 25lb bag at Macey's last year (case lot sale) for $8.99, approximate total - $.05
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.20
Salt and pepper - approximate total - $.10
Nutmeg - I actually got this for free from my mom (she brought it back from a cruise), but if you had to buy it, it would be about $.10
Spinach - On sale at Albertson's for $1.67 as part of spend $30 save $15 promo - total - $.83
Grand Total - $2.45 for 4 servings, $.61 for each serving
Eggs - $.99 / dozen at Smith's, used 4 - total - $.33
Potatoes - $1.79 / 10 lb bag, used about 1 lb - total - $.18
Cheese - $1.00 as part of promo at Smith's, used $1/2 coupon - total - $.50
Butter - I use butter so infrequently that I honestly can't remember what I spent on it (I do know it was on sale), so let's just say it was $.10
Milk - $1.50 / gal at Smith's, used $.75 coupon - total for 1 gal - $.75, used 1 cup - total - $.05
Flour - bought a 25lb bag at Macey's last year (case lot sale) for $8.99, approximate total - $.05
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.20
Salt and pepper - approximate total - $.10
Nutmeg - I actually got this for free from my mom (she brought it back from a cruise), but if you had to buy it, it would be about $.10
Spinach - On sale at Albertson's for $1.67 as part of spend $30 save $15 promo - total - $.83
Grand Total - $2.45 for 4 servings, $.61 for each serving
Mango Pork Pizza
We only have 2 real eaters our house - our 3 year old, while a great eater, in reality doesn't eat very much at all. So, when we made this the other night, we had a lot of left overs. This is what I came up, using the pork and dressing that were left over. It is so tasty! You can find the recipe here.
Pizza crust - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total - $.70
Cornmeal - in pantry, approximate cost - $.25
Creamy Tomatillo Dressing - $2.11 for full recipe, used about half - total - $1.05
Sweet Pork - $2.03 for full recipe, used about half - total - $1.02
Cheese - On sale at Smith's for $1.00 / 8oz, used $1.00 / 2 coupon - total for 8 oz - $.50, used 10 oz - total - $.63
Mango - $.44 at Walmart
Red bell pepper - $.78 at Walmart, used 1/2 - total - $.39
Green onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.10
Grand Total - $4.58 for 4 servings, $1.14 for each serving
Pizza crust - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total - $.70
Cornmeal - in pantry, approximate cost - $.25
Creamy Tomatillo Dressing - $2.11 for full recipe, used about half - total - $1.05
Sweet Pork - $2.03 for full recipe, used about half - total - $1.02
Cheese - On sale at Smith's for $1.00 / 8oz, used $1.00 / 2 coupon - total for 8 oz - $.50, used 10 oz - total - $.63
Mango - $.44 at Walmart
Red bell pepper - $.78 at Walmart, used 1/2 - total - $.39
Green onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.10
Grand Total - $4.58 for 4 servings, $1.14 for each serving
Asparagus and Herbed Chicken Pasta
I know that asparagus isn't even close to being in season, but it was a great price at Walmart and they were nice looking too, so I decided to get them. This dish is kind of heavy for the summer, but the cherries help lighten it up. The cherries are great in this dish - their sweet and tangy flavor cut through the earthy sauce on the pasta and chicken. This dish is nice enough to entertain with. You can find the recipe here.
Chicken - $1.50 / lb at Smith's, used 2 breasts - total - $1.20
Spaghetti - On sale at Albertson's for $1.25, used $1.00 - total $.25
Asparagus - $1.98 at Walmart
Weber White Wine and Herbs marinade mix - $.58 each at Walmart, used $1 / 2 coupon - total $.16
Cherries - $.99 / lb at Walmart - approximate total - $.20
Salt - approximate total - $.10
Olive Oil - approximate total - $.20
Grand total - $4.09 for 4-6 servings
Chicken - $1.50 / lb at Smith's, used 2 breasts - total - $1.20
Spaghetti - On sale at Albertson's for $1.25, used $1.00 - total $.25
Asparagus - $1.98 at Walmart
Weber White Wine and Herbs marinade mix - $.58 each at Walmart, used $1 / 2 coupon - total $.16
Cherries - $.99 / lb at Walmart - approximate total - $.20
Salt - approximate total - $.10
Olive Oil - approximate total - $.20
Grand total - $4.09 for 4-6 servings
Peach Steak Burger
I've come into a lot of very cheap steak sauce recently and wanted to find a new way to use it. I originally planned on just making a steak burger and topping it with lettuce, onions and tomato. But, when I smelled my wonderfully ripe peaches in my kitchen this morning I new that they would go great with with steak sauce. Their bright, sweet flavor counters the deep, rich steak sauce beautifully. You can find the recipe here.
Ground beef - $1.89 / lb at Smith's, used 1 1/2 lb - total - $2.84
A1 Steak sauce - $2.09 at Target, used $2 coupon - total - $.09
Grill seasoning - $2.00 at Albertson's, used $.50 coupon in combination with promotion - total $.16 / bottle, used 2 Tbs - total $.02
Peaches - $.39 / lb at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.30
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.18
Buns (used Sara Lee whole wheat) - $3.22 for 8 - $.40 each - total - $1.60
Lettuce - $.88 / head at Walmart, used 8 leafs - approximate total - $.15
Kraft Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon here, and $1 off Target coupon here - total - Free!!! )
Vegetable oil, salt and pepper - pantry, approximate total - $.10
Grand Total - $5.28 for 4 servings, $1.32 for each serving
Ground beef - $1.89 / lb at Smith's, used 1 1/2 lb - total - $2.84
A1 Steak sauce - $2.09 at Target, used $2 coupon - total - $.09
Grill seasoning - $2.00 at Albertson's, used $.50 coupon in combination with promotion - total $.16 / bottle, used 2 Tbs - total $.02
Peaches - $.39 / lb at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.30
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.18
Buns (used Sara Lee whole wheat) - $3.22 for 8 - $.40 each - total - $1.60
Lettuce - $.88 / head at Walmart, used 8 leafs - approximate total - $.15
Kraft Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon here, and $1 off Target coupon here - total - Free!!! )
Vegetable oil, salt and pepper - pantry, approximate total - $.10
Grand Total - $5.28 for 4 servings, $1.32 for each serving
Mango Peach Quesadillas
In our house, we love to eat quesadillas for dinner. But, we're not talking plain cheese quesadillas. We love to throw all sorts of things into our quesadillas - a lot of them aren't even Mexican ingredients. Quesadillas are great because they're very inexpensive, versatile and they're great for kids - easy to eat and easy for you to hide healthy ingredients under layers of cheese if you have picky eaters.
This recipe is pretty simple, but tasty. My method (of blending all the ingredients together) may seem a little odd, but it works. I got the idea from Rachael Ray (these quesadillas are really good too!) and it works well when you want to incorporate a lot of extra ingredients into your quesadillas. I used black beans as a protein in this recipe because they're very inexpensive and so good for you. The Mango Peach salsa is my favorite salsa of all time - seriously, I love it (in fact, I pretty much planned my wedding reception around it, but that's a whole other story).
You can find the recipe here
Here's what I spent on it:
Tortillas - $2.03 / 10 at Walmart, used $.35 coupon - total for 10 - $1.68, used 12 - total - $2.02
Black Beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 / can
Mango Peach Salsa - $2.50 at Walmart for 16oz, used 8oz - total - $1.25
Cheese - $2.09 at Target, used $1.00 coupon and $1 / 2 Target coupon - total - $.59
Sour Cream - $1.00 / 8oz at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total - $.50
Grand Total - $4.74 for 6 servings, $.79 for each serving.
This recipe is pretty simple, but tasty. My method (of blending all the ingredients together) may seem a little odd, but it works. I got the idea from Rachael Ray (these quesadillas are really good too!) and it works well when you want to incorporate a lot of extra ingredients into your quesadillas. I used black beans as a protein in this recipe because they're very inexpensive and so good for you. The Mango Peach salsa is my favorite salsa of all time - seriously, I love it (in fact, I pretty much planned my wedding reception around it, but that's a whole other story).
You can find the recipe here
Here's what I spent on it:
Tortillas - $2.03 / 10 at Walmart, used $.35 coupon - total for 10 - $1.68, used 12 - total - $2.02
Black Beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 / can
Mango Peach Salsa - $2.50 at Walmart for 16oz, used 8oz - total - $1.25
Cheese - $2.09 at Target, used $1.00 coupon and $1 / 2 Target coupon - total - $.59
Sour Cream - $1.00 / 8oz at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total - $.50
Grand Total - $4.74 for 6 servings, $.79 for each serving.
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Pizza
This recipe is inspired by a CPK (California Pizza Kitchen) recipe. I love CPK and would eat there daily if I could afford it. But, since I can't I try my best to replicate my favorite recipes at home. I used Kraft BBQ sauce as the base for the sauce because I have a ton of it and am trying to dress it up and use it in lots of different recipes. Here I add the traditional jerk spices of cloves, cinnamon and especially allspice in addition to molasses (to make it riches and sweeter) and hot sauce (to add spice, of course). The result is a sauce that has all the same flavor elements as traditional Jamaican jerked chicken.
The CPK version also has roasted yellow bell peppers (in addition to the red) but those are twice as expensive as the red so I decided to omit them.
I originally planned to make this pizza on the grill, but mother nature was not cooperating and I decided that rain simply wouldn't be a good addition to my pizza. But, you can grill this in the same manner I did the San Diego pizza.
To see the recipe, visit my food for frugal foodie blog here.
BBQ sauce - On sale at Smith's for $.88, used $1.00 - total Free
Allspice, Cinnamon, Cloves - in pantry, approximate total - $.25
Hot sauce - $.89 / bottle at Walmart, used $.50 coupon, total for bottle - $.39, used 2 Tbs - total $.08
Molasses - in pantry, approximate total - $.25
Juice of 1 orange - $.33 at Walmart (I used the zest in another recipe - I always use the whole orange)
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low, total - $1.00
Vegetable oil - approximate total $.10
Red Bell Pepper - $.99 at Walmart
Green onions -$.50 at Walmart, used 3 - total - $.15
Mozzarella cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 12oz - total $.89
Refrigerated pizza crust - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total $.75
Cornmeal - in pantry, approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $5.04 for 4 servings, $1.26 for each serving
The CPK version also has roasted yellow bell peppers (in addition to the red) but those are twice as expensive as the red so I decided to omit them.
I originally planned to make this pizza on the grill, but mother nature was not cooperating and I decided that rain simply wouldn't be a good addition to my pizza. But, you can grill this in the same manner I did the San Diego pizza.
To see the recipe, visit my food for frugal foodie blog here.
BBQ sauce - On sale at Smith's for $.88, used $1.00 - total Free
Allspice, Cinnamon, Cloves - in pantry, approximate total - $.25
Hot sauce - $.89 / bottle at Walmart, used $.50 coupon, total for bottle - $.39, used 2 Tbs - total $.08
Molasses - in pantry, approximate total - $.25
Juice of 1 orange - $.33 at Walmart (I used the zest in another recipe - I always use the whole orange)
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low, total - $1.00
Vegetable oil - approximate total $.10
Red Bell Pepper - $.99 at Walmart
Green onions -$.50 at Walmart, used 3 - total - $.15
Mozzarella cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 12oz - total $.89
Refrigerated pizza crust - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total $.75
Cornmeal - in pantry, approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $5.04 for 4 servings, $1.26 for each serving
Carmelized Onion and Mustard Sliders
This recipe shows what great deals you can get by checking out the markdown sections of your grocery store. Most grocery stores have places where they put expiring meat and bakery items that have been marked down (usually 50% off at my stores). I check them out every time I'm in the store - the mornings are the best time to do this because that is when they mark them down and there is the most variety to choose from. Anything I buy I either use that day or put straight into the freezer. This recipe happens to feature 2 items that I got at a discount. The potato rolls were $1.29 / dozen (down from $2.49 / dozen) and the ground beef was $1.49 / lb (down from $2.99 / lb). Now, $1.49 / lb is a pretty good deal on ground beef, but this was actually 96% (4% fat) ground beef! $1.49 / lb for that lean of ground beef is an amazing price. We never can afford to buy that lean of ground beef, so I was super excited.
Sliders are also a big hit in our house. What kid doesn't like anything in miniature. Plus, one is the perfect size for our 3 year old. Usually I like to have lots of different flavors - sweet, tangy, savory, spicy etc in my recipes. This one is just straight out savory, but it packs a very flavorful punch so it isn't dull. You can find the recipe here.
Ground beef - regularly $2.99 / lb, manager's special markdown to $1.49 / lb - total - $1.52 (mine was a little more than a pound)
Grill seasoning - $2.00 at Albertson's, used $.50 coupon in combination with promotion - total $.16 / bottle, used 2 Tbs - total $.02
Potato rolls - regularly $2.49 / dozen, manager's special markdown to $1.29 / dozen
Onions - $.25 / lb at Walmart - total - $.35
Garlic - $2.48 / lb at Walmart - total for 1 bulb - $.42, used 4 cloves - approximate total - $.15
Cheese - $5.99 / 2 lbs at Albertson's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - $3.99 / 2 lbs, used 4 oz - total - $.50
A-1 steak sauce - $2.09 at Walmart, used $2.00 coupon - total - $.09 for whole bottle, used 2oz - total - $.04
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.10
Salt and Pepper - approximate total - $.10
Mustard - $1.99 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Grand total - $4.07 for 12 sliders, $.34 for each slider (serves 4 -6 people)
Sliders are also a big hit in our house. What kid doesn't like anything in miniature. Plus, one is the perfect size for our 3 year old. Usually I like to have lots of different flavors - sweet, tangy, savory, spicy etc in my recipes. This one is just straight out savory, but it packs a very flavorful punch so it isn't dull. You can find the recipe here.
Ground beef - regularly $2.99 / lb, manager's special markdown to $1.49 / lb - total - $1.52 (mine was a little more than a pound)
Grill seasoning - $2.00 at Albertson's, used $.50 coupon in combination with promotion - total $.16 / bottle, used 2 Tbs - total $.02
Potato rolls - regularly $2.49 / dozen, manager's special markdown to $1.29 / dozen
Onions - $.25 / lb at Walmart - total - $.35
Garlic - $2.48 / lb at Walmart - total for 1 bulb - $.42, used 4 cloves - approximate total - $.15
Cheese - $5.99 / 2 lbs at Albertson's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - $3.99 / 2 lbs, used 4 oz - total - $.50
A-1 steak sauce - $2.09 at Walmart, used $2.00 coupon - total - $.09 for whole bottle, used 2oz - total - $.04
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.10
Salt and Pepper - approximate total - $.10
Mustard - $1.99 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Grand total - $4.07 for 12 sliders, $.34 for each slider (serves 4 -6 people)
Chipotle Chicken Pizza
This is another knock off of a CPK pizza, although I admit I've never actually had this one at their restaurant. This is just my best (and frugal) attempt at re-creating it. In order to keep the total cost for the meal down, we ate simple side dishes - carrots and celery with dip and strawberries ($.77 / lb!). You can find the recipe here.
Pizza dough - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total - $.70
Chicken breast - $1.69 at Buy Low, used 1 - total $1.00
Onion $.25 / lb at Buy Low - total $.18
Kraft BBQ sauce - $.88 at Smith's, used $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Cheese - $2.09 at Target for 8 oz, used $1.00 coupon plus $1/2 Target coupon – total $.59, used 12 oz - total $.88
Corn - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.44 each, used half - total $.22
Black beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 each, used half - total $.19
Cilantro - $.25 / bunch at Buy Low, used 1/3 - total $.08
Lime - $.20 at Buy Low
Sour cream (used Daisy) - $1.00 / 8oz at Walmart, $.50 coupons - total $.50, used 1/4 - total - $.13
Cornmeal - $1.58 / canister at Walmart, used 1/4 cup - total $.06
Chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, chipotle powder, vegetable oil, salt and pepper - pantry, approximate total - $1.00
Grand Total - $4.64 for 4 servings, $1.16 for each serving
Pizza dough - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total - $.70
Chicken breast - $1.69 at Buy Low, used 1 - total $1.00
Onion $.25 / lb at Buy Low - total $.18
Kraft BBQ sauce - $.88 at Smith's, used $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Cheese - $2.09 at Target for 8 oz, used $1.00 coupon plus $1/2 Target coupon – total $.59, used 12 oz - total $.88
Corn - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.44 each, used half - total $.22
Black beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 each, used half - total $.19
Cilantro - $.25 / bunch at Buy Low, used 1/3 - total $.08
Lime - $.20 at Buy Low
Sour cream (used Daisy) - $1.00 / 8oz at Walmart, $.50 coupons - total $.50, used 1/4 - total - $.13
Cornmeal - $1.58 / canister at Walmart, used 1/4 cup - total $.06
Chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, chipotle powder, vegetable oil, salt and pepper - pantry, approximate total - $1.00
Grand Total - $4.64 for 4 servings, $1.16 for each serving
Hazelnut French Toast with Cherry Compote
You can see the Recipe here.
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low
Eggs - $.99 / dozen at Smith's, used 4 - total - $.25
Coffee Mate Creamer - $2.00 each at Albertson's, part of promo when you buy $10 you save $2, bought 5, doubled 3 $1.00 coupons and used 1 $1.50 / 2 coupon, for a total of $1.68, got a $1.00 catalina, so the total was $.68 for 5 bottles (!) - total for 1 bottle - $.14
Cinnamon - approximate total - $.10
Cherries - $.98 / lb at Albertson's
Grand Total - $2.35for 8 servings, $.29 for each serving
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low
Eggs - $.99 / dozen at Smith's, used 4 - total - $.25
Coffee Mate Creamer - $2.00 each at Albertson's, part of promo when you buy $10 you save $2, bought 5, doubled 3 $1.00 coupons and used 1 $1.50 / 2 coupon, for a total of $1.68, got a $1.00 catalina, so the total was $.68 for 5 bottles (!) - total for 1 bottle - $.14
Cinnamon - approximate total - $.10
Cherries - $.98 / lb at Albertson's
Grand Total - $2.35for 8 servings, $.29 for each serving
Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
Here's a great recipe to dress up all the free hot dogs that you probably got at the beginning of the summer. I actually didn't get any of the oodles of free hot dogs that were available because I'm a little picky about my hot dogs. I did get a great deal on our favorite hot dogs (Hebrew National) so I was excited to try out this recipe. If you did use your free hot dogs, the cost of this recipe would be even lower. You can find the recipe here.
Hot Dogs (I use low fat Hebrew National) - on sale at Smith's for $2.50, used $1.00 coupon - total $1.50 (which may seem like a lot for hot dogs, but these are the only kind I buy because I know that they're made with only the best meat)
Turkey Bacon - Used Biggest Loser Jenny-O Turkey coupon - Free!
Cheddar cheese - 2 lb block on sale at Albertson's for $6.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - $4.99 for 2 lbs, used 1/2 oz - total - $.08
Hot Dog Buns (I use wheat)- $1.97 at Walmart
Sauerkraut - $1.04 for 16oz at Walmart, used 1/4 cup - total - $.13
Green onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.10
Ketchup - free with coupon from this book
Dijon mustard - On sale at Albertson's for $1.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - Free
Vegetable oil - approximate cost - $.10
Grand Total - $3.88 for 8 servings, $.48 for each serving
Hot Dogs (I use low fat Hebrew National) - on sale at Smith's for $2.50, used $1.00 coupon - total $1.50 (which may seem like a lot for hot dogs, but these are the only kind I buy because I know that they're made with only the best meat)
Turkey Bacon - Used Biggest Loser Jenny-O Turkey coupon - Free!
Cheddar cheese - 2 lb block on sale at Albertson's for $6.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - $4.99 for 2 lbs, used 1/2 oz - total - $.08
Hot Dog Buns (I use wheat)- $1.97 at Walmart
Sauerkraut - $1.04 for 16oz at Walmart, used 1/4 cup - total - $.13
Green onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.10
Ketchup - free with coupon from this book
Dijon mustard - On sale at Albertson's for $1.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - Free
Vegetable oil - approximate cost - $.10
Grand Total - $3.88 for 8 servings, $.48 for each serving
Pasta and Chicken in a Chive Cream Sauce with Cherries and Pecans
I got the idea for this recipe from this Martha Stewart recipe. Really there's not a whole lot of similarity in the recipes at all (her's is a salad) - I just used the same flavor combinations from her recipe to create mine. It sounds kind of odd, I know - but it's really tasty. Not the lightest meal I know, but it's great to have on a special occasion.
I happen to be obsessed with cherries. I have always loved them and eat a ton of them during the 1 month out of the year that they are available. I even went to the National Cherry Festival in Michigan 2 summers ago when we were there visitng my husband's family. And we re-create our own cherry festival every year at our house around the end of June. I know - I'm totally obsessed! That being said, I like to find new ways to use them in recipes. Yes, they're great all on their own, but I love incoporating them into meals as well.
Here's what I spent on this recipe. You can find the recipe here.
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low, used 2 - total $2.00
I happen to be obsessed with cherries. I have always loved them and eat a ton of them during the 1 month out of the year that they are available. I even went to the National Cherry Festival in Michigan 2 summers ago when we were there visitng my husband's family. And we re-create our own cherry festival every year at our house around the end of June. I know - I'm totally obsessed! That being said, I like to find new ways to use them in recipes. Yes, they're great all on their own, but I love incoporating them into meals as well.
Here's what I spent on this recipe. You can find the recipe here.
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low, used 2 - total $2.00
Pasta (used Barilla Piccolini mini Farfalle) - on sale at Smith's for $1.00 / box, used $.75 coupons - $.25 / box, used 2/3 of the box - total $.16
Onion & Chive cream cheese - On sale at Albertson's for $2.00, doubled $1 /2 coupon - total $1.00
Milk- on sale at Walmart for $1.66, used $.75 coupon here (only available in Idaho and Utah) - total $.91 for 1 gal, used 1/2 cup - total $.03
Cherries - $1.99 / lb at Albertson's, used 1/4 lb - total - $.50
Pecans - $1.26 / bag at Walmart, used 1/2 - total $.63
Salt, pepper, and vegetable oil - approximate total $.10
Grand Total - $4.42 for 4 servings, $1.10 for each serving
Cranberry Orange Pork Pasta Salad
My summer obsession with pasta salads continues...you can find the recipe here.
Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing (I used Kraft) - on Price Cut at Target for $1.59, used $1.00 off coupon here and $.50 off Target coupon - total $.09
Pork tenderloin - $1.88 / lb at Albertson's - total - $1.91 (mine was a little more than a pound)
Onion - $.20 / lb at Walmart - total - $.07
Dried cranberries - bought at Sam's Club a while ago - approximate cost - $2.00
Oranges - $.20 each at Walmart - total $.40
Broccoli - $.50 / lb at Walmart - total $.70
Penne rigate pasta - On sale at Smith's for $1.00, used $.75 coupon - total for 16oz - $.25, used 10 oz - total $.16
Walnuts - $1.19 at Walmart
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.10
Salt and Pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $6.67 for 4 servings, $1.67 for each serving
Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing (I used Kraft) - on Price Cut at Target for $1.59, used $1.00 off coupon here and $.50 off Target coupon - total $.09
Pork tenderloin - $1.88 / lb at Albertson's - total - $1.91 (mine was a little more than a pound)
Onion - $.20 / lb at Walmart - total - $.07
Dried cranberries - bought at Sam's Club a while ago - approximate cost - $2.00
Oranges - $.20 each at Walmart - total $.40
Broccoli - $.50 / lb at Walmart - total $.70
Penne rigate pasta - On sale at Smith's for $1.00, used $.75 coupon - total for 16oz - $.25, used 10 oz - total $.16
Walnuts - $1.19 at Walmart
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.10
Salt and Pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $6.67 for 4 servings, $1.67 for each serving
Grilled BBQ Chicken Burritos
After the Kraft coupon bonanza last month I have a lot of BBQ sauce. And to be honest, Kraft BBQ sauce is not my favorite, but free is free and I couldn't pass it up (actually, I made about $4.00 buying my 8 bottles - sweet!). So, I'm coming up with recipes where I jazz it up - giving it more flavor and personality. This one is adapted from a recipe in the Kraft Food and Family monthly magazine. In order to keep costs down, I decreased the amount of chicken and added black beans. Pretty much anytime I make a hispanic dish, I cut the amount of meat down and add black beans instead. They are very good for you and are super cheap. I make these on the grill because I like how the tortilla crisps up, and it doesn't heat up my house. See the recipe here.
Mission whole wheat tortillas - $2.76 / 10, used 8, total - $2.21
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low, total - $1.00
Black beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38
Green bell pepper - $.50 at Walmart
Red bell pepper - $1.00 at Walmart
Large onion - $.20 / lb at Walmart - total - $.20
Kraft BBQ Sauce - $.88 at Smith's, used $1.00 coupon - Free (actuall better than free!)
vegetable oil, Canola Oil Spray - approximately $.25
salt and pepper, Chili powder, Cumin, ground Coriander, Chipotle powder - approximately $1.00
8oz Kraft shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese - $2.00 at Albertson's, doubled $1.00 coupon - Free
1/2 cup sour cream (used Daisy) - $1.00 / 8oz at Walmart, used 1/2 - total - $.50
1/4 cup chopped cilantro - $.50 at Walmart, used 1/3 - total $.16
Grand Total - $7.20 for 4 servings, $1.80 for each serving
Sweet and Sour Chicken with Lo Mein Noodles
I created this recipe in my ongoing quest to find creative and useful recipes for all of my free and nearly free salad dressing. When I bought the salad dressing in the store I had no idea what I was going to do with it. But, by the end of the day I had come up with this recipe. To see it, visit my blog here.
Russian Salad Dressing (used wishbone)- $1.50 at Albertson's, used $.75 coupon - total - $.75 for whole bottle, used 1/2 - total $.38
Asian (sesame ginger) salad dressing (Used Wishbone Asian Silk Salad Spritzer) - $1.50 at Albertson's, doubled $1 coupon - total - Free
Whole grain spaghetti - $1.23 / 13 lb box at Walmart, used 2/3 - total $.81
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low - $2.00
Pineapple - $1.00 at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total - $.50
Cole slaw mix - $1.99 at Albertson's, used Free Bagged Salad coupon wyb 2 Wishbone salad dressings (hanging on bottle) - total - Free
Celery - $.20 / bunch at Buy Low, used 1 stalk, total - $.02
Green onions - $.25 at Buy Low, used 3 - total - $.12
Vegetable oil, Soy sauce - pantry, approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $4.08 for 4 servings, $1.04 for each serving
Russian Salad Dressing (used wishbone)- $1.50 at Albertson's, used $.75 coupon - total - $.75 for whole bottle, used 1/2 - total $.38
Asian (sesame ginger) salad dressing (Used Wishbone Asian Silk Salad Spritzer) - $1.50 at Albertson's, doubled $1 coupon - total - Free
Whole grain spaghetti - $1.23 / 13 lb box at Walmart, used 2/3 - total $.81
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low - $2.00
Pineapple - $1.00 at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total - $.50
Cole slaw mix - $1.99 at Albertson's, used Free Bagged Salad coupon wyb 2 Wishbone salad dressings (hanging on bottle) - total - Free
Celery - $.20 / bunch at Buy Low, used 1 stalk, total - $.02
Green onions - $.25 at Buy Low, used 3 - total - $.12
Vegetable oil, Soy sauce - pantry, approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $4.08 for 4 servings, $1.04 for each serving
Ham with Pepperjack and Appleslaw Sandwich
This recipe is drastically adapted from an Emeril Lagasse recipe. I love his recipes but, my goodness, they require 101 ingredients and are not the simplest things to make. So I simplified it a lot, while still maintaining the flavor quality. To see the recipe, visit my Food For Frugal Foodies Blog here
Sara Lee Wheat Hamburger Buns - $3.22 for 8 - $.40 each (they're pricey buns, but they're whole grain, so it's worth the extra cost for me) - total $1.60
Oscar Mayer Deli Sliced Ham- on Price Cut at Target for $2.99 each, used $.75 printable coupon, and $1 / 2 Target Coupon - total $1.74
Kraft Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon here, and $1 off Target coupon here - total - Free!!! )
Pepper jack cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 1/2 - total $.30
Green Onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 1 - total $.05
Apple - $.30 at Buy Low
Cole Slaw Mix - $.99 at Walmart, used 1/4 - total $.25
Dijon Mustard - $1.75 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Vinegar, Sugar, Salt & Pepper, Honey - approximately $.25
Grand Total - $4.49 for 4 servings, $1,12 for each serving
Sara Lee Wheat Hamburger Buns - $3.22 for 8 - $.40 each (they're pricey buns, but they're whole grain, so it's worth the extra cost for me) - total $1.60
Oscar Mayer Deli Sliced Ham- on Price Cut at Target for $2.99 each, used $.75 printable coupon, and $1 / 2 Target Coupon - total $1.74
Kraft Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon here, and $1 off Target coupon here - total - Free!!! )
Pepper jack cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 1/2 - total $.30
Green Onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 1 - total $.05
Apple - $.30 at Buy Low
Cole Slaw Mix - $.99 at Walmart, used 1/4 - total $.25
Dijon Mustard - $1.75 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Vinegar, Sugar, Salt & Pepper, Honey - approximately $.25
Grand Total - $4.49 for 4 servings, $1,12 for each serving
Honey Mustard Apple Burgers
We love to have burgers at our house, we have them several times a month. Rachael Ray is the self-proclaimed burger queen and I one of her loyal subjects. I love experimenting with combinations of flavors and textures in my burgers. You can make amazing burgers in your own home for a fraction of the price of a nice burger joint (and about the same price at a puny burger off a $ menu at a fast food place). You can find the recipe here.
Ground beef - $1.89 / lb at Smith's, used 1 1/2 lb - total - $2.84
Buns (used Sara Lee whole wheat) - $3.22 for 8 - $.40 each - total - $1.60
Grill seasoning - $2.00 at Albertson's, used $.50 coupon in combination with promotion - total $.16 / bottle, used 2 Tbs - total $.02
Cheddar cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 1/2 - total $.30
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.18
Apple - $.33 / lb at Buy Low - total - $.10
Lettuce - $.88 / head at Walmart, used 4 leafs - approximate total - $.10
Dijon Mustard - $1.75 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Worcestershire Sauce, Honey, Vegetable oil - pantry - approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $6.02 for 4 servings, $1.51 for each serving.
Ground beef - $1.89 / lb at Smith's, used 1 1/2 lb - total - $2.84
Buns (used Sara Lee whole wheat) - $3.22 for 8 - $.40 each - total - $1.60
Grill seasoning - $2.00 at Albertson's, used $.50 coupon in combination with promotion - total $.16 / bottle, used 2 Tbs - total $.02
Cheddar cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 1/2 - total $.30
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.18
Apple - $.33 / lb at Buy Low - total - $.10
Lettuce - $.88 / head at Walmart, used 4 leafs - approximate total - $.10
Dijon Mustard - $1.75 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Worcestershire Sauce, Honey, Vegetable oil - pantry - approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $6.02 for 4 servings, $1.51 for each serving.
Sweet Pork Salad with Creamy Tomatillo Dressing
For any Utah residents reading this recipe, it will probably sound familiar. It is a dead ringer for a dish at a very popular restaurant here in Utah. As I've mentioned before, I love to make restaurant knock offs in my own kitchen - we're able to eat really eat yummy food for a fraction of the price. You can see the recipe here.
Salsa - $1.99 at Albertson's, doubled $1.00 coupon - free!
Dr Pepper - Used 1 free 2 liter coupon - free!
Brown Sugar - $1.50 at Walmart, used $.35 coupon - total $1.15 for 2 lbs, used 1 cup - total - $.25
Pork - $3.78 at Albertson's, doubled $1 coupon - total - $1.78
Buttermilk Ranch Mix - $1.23 at Walmart
Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon and $1 off Target coupon - total - Free!
Cilantro - $.50 at Walmart
Jalapeno - $0.04 at Walmart
Salsa Verde - $1.64 / 16oz at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total $1.14 for 16 oz, used 1/4 cup - total - $.15
Garlic - $1.29 / head at Walmart, used 2 cloves - total - $.13
Lime Juice - $1.68 / 15oz at Walmart, used 3 teaspoons - total - $.06
Tortillas - $2.58 / 10 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total - $1.58 for 10, used 6 - total - $.95
Cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 6oz - total $.44
Black Beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38
Hearts of romaine - $1.00 at Buy Low
Avocados - $.69 each at Walmart - total $1.38
salt and pepper - $.05
crushed tortilla chips - I count these as free because they wouldn't normally be used
Grand Total - $8.34 for 6 servings, $1.39 for each serving!
You would pay 6 times that at the restaurant - for the cost of one serving from the restaurant, you can feed 6 people in your own home!
Salsa - $1.99 at Albertson's, doubled $1.00 coupon - free!
Dr Pepper - Used 1 free 2 liter coupon - free!
Brown Sugar - $1.50 at Walmart, used $.35 coupon - total $1.15 for 2 lbs, used 1 cup - total - $.25
Pork - $3.78 at Albertson's, doubled $1 coupon - total - $1.78
Buttermilk Ranch Mix - $1.23 at Walmart
Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon and $1 off Target coupon - total - Free!
Cilantro - $.50 at Walmart
Jalapeno - $0.04 at Walmart
Salsa Verde - $1.64 / 16oz at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total $1.14 for 16 oz, used 1/4 cup - total - $.15
Garlic - $1.29 / head at Walmart, used 2 cloves - total - $.13
Lime Juice - $1.68 / 15oz at Walmart, used 3 teaspoons - total - $.06
Tortillas - $2.58 / 10 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total - $1.58 for 10, used 6 - total - $.95
Cheese - $2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 6oz - total $.44
Black Beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38
Hearts of romaine - $1.00 at Buy Low
Avocados - $.69 each at Walmart - total $1.38
salt and pepper - $.05
crushed tortilla chips - I count these as free because they wouldn't normally be used
Grand Total - $8.34 for 6 servings, $1.39 for each serving!
You would pay 6 times that at the restaurant - for the cost of one serving from the restaurant, you can feed 6 people in your own home!
Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
I am not very good at feeding my kids "kid" food. My son was 3 years old when he had a peanut butter and honey sandwich for the first time. I don't believe in dumbing down food for kids and my son grew up eating things like asparagus, salmon and blue cheese. He loves it and is a great eater. But, I do realize that I need to lighten up a little and let him have standard kid fare too. So, I'm trying to serve more kid friendly recipes in our house. This is one that I came up with when I had all the ingredients for pepperoni pizza but was not wanting to turn on the oven. So, I decided to come up with something new, even though not terribly exciting, it was a big hit with the kids both young and old (aka DH). You can find the recipe here (although there's not much to it and you can probably figure it out yourself just by reading the title).
Here's what I spent on it:
Bread - Free at Albertson's - they had coupons taped to the bread that gave you the bread for free when you bought 2 lbs of fruit. So, I bought 2 lbs of bananas (which I was going to buy anyways) and I got the loaf of bread for free!
Cheese - $1.50 at Smith's, part of a promotion - saved $.50 when I bought 10 items, used $1/2 coupon - total - $.50 for 8 oz, used 6oz - total - $.38
Marinara sauce - $1.67 at Albertson's, part of a promotion - save $15 when you spend $30 - total - $.84, doubled $1/2 coupon - total - Free
Pepperoni - Manager's Special markdown at Smith's - total - $1.39 for 8 oz, used 6 - total - $1.04
Dried basil - approximate total - $.15
Dried oregano - approximate total - $.10
Cooking spray - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $1.72 for 4 servings, $.43 for each serving
Here's what I spent on it:
Bread - Free at Albertson's - they had coupons taped to the bread that gave you the bread for free when you bought 2 lbs of fruit. So, I bought 2 lbs of bananas (which I was going to buy anyways) and I got the loaf of bread for free!
Cheese - $1.50 at Smith's, part of a promotion - saved $.50 when I bought 10 items, used $1/2 coupon - total - $.50 for 8 oz, used 6oz - total - $.38
Marinara sauce - $1.67 at Albertson's, part of a promotion - save $15 when you spend $30 - total - $.84, doubled $1/2 coupon - total - Free
Pepperoni - Manager's Special markdown at Smith's - total - $1.39 for 8 oz, used 6 - total - $1.04
Dried basil - approximate total - $.15
Dried oregano - approximate total - $.10
Cooking spray - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $1.72 for 4 servings, $.43 for each serving
Chicken Tortellini Salad with Grapes and Pineapple
I adapted this recipe from the Krazy Coupon Lady - you can find her version here. This recipe is really tasty and is nice enough that you can entertain with it. If you wait to make it until you get a great deal on fresh pasta (which is normally really expensive) it can be quite affordable. You can find my recipe here.
Tortellini - On sale at Albertson's for $3.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - total $1.99 each, used 2 - total - $3.98
Chicken - $1.49 / lb at Smith's, used 2 breasts - total - $1.50
Pineapple - On sale at Albertson's for $1.00, doubled $.55 / 2 coupon - total - $.45
Mayonnaise - On Price cut at Target for $1.99, used $1.00 coupon and $1.00 target coupon - total - Free
Celery - $.33 / bunch at Walmart, used 1 - total - $.03
Green Onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 3 - total - $.15
Grapes - $.88 / lb at Albertson's, used about 1/2 lb - total - $.44
Sage, thyme, and garlic powder - approximate total - $.25
1 Tbs. olive oil - approximate total - $.10
Salt and pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $6.95 for 4 servings, $1.74 for each serving
Tortellini - On sale at Albertson's for $3.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - total $1.99 each, used 2 - total - $3.98
Chicken - $1.49 / lb at Smith's, used 2 breasts - total - $1.50
Pineapple - On sale at Albertson's for $1.00, doubled $.55 / 2 coupon - total - $.45
Mayonnaise - On Price cut at Target for $1.99, used $1.00 coupon and $1.00 target coupon - total - Free
Celery - $.33 / bunch at Walmart, used 1 - total - $.03
Green Onions - $.50 at Walmart, used 3 - total - $.15
Grapes - $.88 / lb at Albertson's, used about 1/2 lb - total - $.44
Sage, thyme, and garlic powder - approximate total - $.25
1 Tbs. olive oil - approximate total - $.10
Salt and pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $6.95 for 4 servings, $1.74 for each serving
Cranberry Dijon Chicken Salad Sandwiches
The chicken salad keeps real well in the fridge. I make up a batch and use it throughout the week for lunches for my husband and I. We also have it for dinner sometimes during the summer. You can see the recipe here.
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low - total - $2.00
Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon and $1 off Target coupon - total - Free!
Dijon Mustard - $1.75 at Albertson's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Celery - $.33 / stalk at Buy Low - total $.03
Green onions - $.25 at Buy Low - total - $.10
Craisins - bought at Sam's Club a while ago, approximate total - $1.00
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low, used 8 leafs - total - $.50
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 8 - total - $.35
Grand Total - $3.98 for 4 servings, $.99 for each serving
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low - total - $2.00
Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon and $1 off Target coupon - total - Free!
Dijon Mustard - $1.75 at Albertson's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - Free
Celery - $.33 / stalk at Buy Low - total $.03
Green onions - $.25 at Buy Low - total - $.10
Craisins - bought at Sam's Club a while ago, approximate total - $1.00
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low, used 8 leafs - total - $.50
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 8 - total - $.35
Grand Total - $3.98 for 4 servings, $.99 for each serving
BBQ Chicken Salad
This salad is a knock off of Red Robin's BBQ chicken salad. Red Robin is one of our family's favorite places to eat out - my husband LOVES the bottomless fries. But, we can't eat there very often, so I like to make this salad occasionally at home. It is really tasty and very close to the original - it would probably be a dead ringer if I found out what BBQ sauce they use. You can find my recipe here.
Chicken Breasts - $1.50 / lb at Smiths, used 2 - total - $1.20
BBQ Sauce (I used Jack Daniels) - On sale at Albertson's for $1.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - Free!
Black Beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 each
Romaine lettuce - $1.00 at Buy Low
Roma Tomatoes - $.88 / lb at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.45
Avocados - $.33 each at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.66
Cheddar Cheese - $2.09 at Target, used $1.00 coupon and $1 / 2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 4oz - total - $.30
Ranch Dressing - on Price Cut at Target, used $1.00 coupon and $.50 off Target coupon - total - $.09
French Fried Onions - $1.66 at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total $1.16
Vegetable Oil - $.10
Grand Total - $5.24 for 4 servings, $1.31 for each serving
(You would pay A LOT more than this at the restaurant, especially when you include a tip!)
Chicken Breasts - $1.50 / lb at Smiths, used 2 - total - $1.20
BBQ Sauce (I used Jack Daniels) - On sale at Albertson's for $1.99, doubled $1.00 coupon - Free!
Black Beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 each
Romaine lettuce - $1.00 at Buy Low
Roma Tomatoes - $.88 / lb at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.45
Avocados - $.33 each at Walmart, used 2 - total - $.66
Cheddar Cheese - $2.09 at Target, used $1.00 coupon and $1 / 2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 4oz - total - $.30
Ranch Dressing - on Price Cut at Target, used $1.00 coupon and $.50 off Target coupon - total - $.09
French Fried Onions - $1.66 at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total $1.16
Vegetable Oil - $.10
Grand Total - $5.24 for 4 servings, $1.31 for each serving
(You would pay A LOT more than this at the restaurant, especially when you include a tip!)
Honey Mustard Salmon Pasta Salad
I've said before how much I love pasta salads in the summer - They're cool and refreshing on a hot day and I can make them in the morning so that I'm not heating up my house in the middle of the day. In this recipe I stretch a pound of salmon pretty far - it's a great way to feed a crowd a seemingly fancy meal without it costing a ton. You can find the recipe here.
Pasta (I used Barilla Mini Farfalle) - On sale at Smith's for $1.00 / box, used $.75 coupon - total $.25
Salmon - On sale at Smith's for $3.99 / lb - total - $3.55 (my fillet was slightly less than a pound)
Kraft Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing - - on Price Cut at Target for $1.59, used $1.00 off coupon and $.50 off Target coupon - total $.09
Cucumber - $.50 at Buy Low
Carrots - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1/4 - total - $.06
Green onions - $..20 / bunch at Buy Low, used 3 - total $.12
Grand Total - $4.57 for 6 servings, $.76 for each serving
Pasta (I used Barilla Mini Farfalle) - On sale at Smith's for $1.00 / box, used $.75 coupon - total $.25
Salmon - On sale at Smith's for $3.99 / lb - total - $3.55 (my fillet was slightly less than a pound)
Kraft Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing - - on Price Cut at Target for $1.59, used $1.00 off coupon and $.50 off Target coupon - total $.09
Cucumber - $.50 at Buy Low
Carrots - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1/4 - total - $.06
Green onions - $..20 / bunch at Buy Low, used 3 - total $.12
Grand Total - $4.57 for 6 servings, $.76 for each serving
Bacon, Egg and Tomato Quesadillas with Avocado
I had a birthday earlier this month and my husband surprised me with a huge breakfast that morning. He had done the shopping on his own and had stored everything in our ice chest in the back room (so cute!). It was so yummy and a great surprise! But, he didn't realize that we already had 18 eggs in our fridge, and he bought another dozen. So, we have a lot of eggs in our house right now that are going bad soon so we're trying to use them up. You'll be seeing quite a few egg recipes here in the next few days. But, eggs are a great, inexpensive protein - you can never have too many egg recipes in my opinion. You can see this recipe here.
Tortillas - $2.58 / 10 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total - $1.58 for 10, used 2 - total - $.32
Eggs - $1.25 / 18 at Smith's, used 2 - total - $.14
Cheddar cheese - On Sale at Smith's for $1.00 / 8 oz, used $1 / 2 coupon - total for 8oz - $.50, used 3 oz - total - $.19
Roma tomato - $.50 / lb at Walmart - total - $.12
Turkey Bacon - used the Biggest Loser Free Jenny-O Turkey product coupon to get it for Free!
Avocado - $.69 at Walmart
Salt and Pepper, Cooking spray, Butter - approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $1.71 for 2 servings, $.85 each
Tortillas - $2.58 / 10 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total - $1.58 for 10, used 2 - total - $.32
Eggs - $1.25 / 18 at Smith's, used 2 - total - $.14
Cheddar cheese - On Sale at Smith's for $1.00 / 8 oz, used $1 / 2 coupon - total for 8oz - $.50, used 3 oz - total - $.19
Roma tomato - $.50 / lb at Walmart - total - $.12
Turkey Bacon - used the Biggest Loser Free Jenny-O Turkey product coupon to get it for Free!
Avocado - $.69 at Walmart
Salt and Pepper, Cooking spray, Butter - approximate total - $.25
Grand Total - $1.71 for 2 servings, $.85 each
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Yet another pasta salad, hope you're not sick of them (I know I'm not). This one's a good example of how couponing allows you to buy pricey ingredients without blowing the budget. The Sun Dried Tomatoes weren't on sale and I didn't use a coupon. But, because I scored killer deals on the other ingredients in this recipe, I can afford to spend more on yummy ingredients that I love and can't live without (in this case, sun dried tomatoes). You can find the recipe here.
Pasta - On sale at Albertson's for $1.25, used $1.00 - total $.25
Sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Salad Dressing - on Price Cut at Target for $1.59, used $1.00 off coupon and $.50 off Target coupon - total $.09
Sun Dried Tomatoes - $2.69 at Smith's
Broccoli - $.88 / lb at Buy Low - total - $.80
Salami - On sale at Albertson's for $2.00, used $1.00 coupon - total - $1.00
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.25
Balsamic vinegar - On sale for $2.00 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - free!
Olive oil, salt and pepper - approximate total - $.25
Grand Total: $5.33 for 6 servings, $.89 for each serving (as an entree)
Pasta - On sale at Albertson's for $1.25, used $1.00 - total $.25
Sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Salad Dressing - on Price Cut at Target for $1.59, used $1.00 off coupon and $.50 off Target coupon - total $.09
Sun Dried Tomatoes - $2.69 at Smith's
Broccoli - $.88 / lb at Buy Low - total - $.80
Salami - On sale at Albertson's for $2.00, used $1.00 coupon - total - $1.00
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.25
Balsamic vinegar - On sale for $2.00 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - free!
Olive oil, salt and pepper - approximate total - $.25
Grand Total: $5.33 for 6 servings, $.89 for each serving (as an entree)
Breakfast Pizza
Here's another recipe I created with the sole purpose of using up the surplus of eggs in our house. This pizza is really tasty and perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You can find the recipe here.
Pizza Dough - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total - $.70
Corn meal - approximate total - $.25
Marinara Sauce - on sale at Albertson's for $1.50, used $1.00 coupon - total $.50 for jar, used 1/4 - total - $.13
Eggs - $1.25 / 18 at Smith's, used 8 - total - $.55
Butter - approximate total - $.10
Vegetable Oil - approximate total - $.10
Cheese - $1.00 / 8 oz at Smith's, used $1 / 2 coupon - total $.50
Onion - $.20 / lb at Walmart - total - $.07
Red bell pepper - $.78 each at Walmart, used 1/2 - total - $.39
Green bell pepper - $.68 each at Walmart, used 1/2 - total - $.34
Jalapeno - $.04 at Walmart
Breakfast Sausage - $1.50 at Walmart, used $.35 peelie coupon - $1.15
salt and pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $4.37 for 4 servings, $1.09 for each serving
Pizza Dough - $1.25 at Walmart, used $.55 coupon - total - $.70
Corn meal - approximate total - $.25
Marinara Sauce - on sale at Albertson's for $1.50, used $1.00 coupon - total $.50 for jar, used 1/4 - total - $.13
Eggs - $1.25 / 18 at Smith's, used 8 - total - $.55
Butter - approximate total - $.10
Vegetable Oil - approximate total - $.10
Cheese - $1.00 / 8 oz at Smith's, used $1 / 2 coupon - total $.50
Onion - $.20 / lb at Walmart - total - $.07
Red bell pepper - $.78 each at Walmart, used 1/2 - total - $.39
Green bell pepper - $.68 each at Walmart, used 1/2 - total - $.34
Jalapeno - $.04 at Walmart
Breakfast Sausage - $1.50 at Walmart, used $.35 peelie coupon - $1.15
salt and pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $4.37 for 4 servings, $1.09 for each serving
Chocolate Cocnut Triffle
Trifles are great because you can take simple ingredients like pudding and cookies and dress them up for a nice occasion. It is a great way to make dessert on a dime for a lot of people. I needed to bring dessert to a big family dinner and this is what I decided to make. There are countless ways that you can make trifles, this recipe just represents what I was able to make with stuff that I had on hand. See the recipe here.
Chocolate Pudding - On sale at Albertson's $.70 / box, doubled $1 / 3 coupon - total $.04
Vanilla Pudding - On sale at Albertson's $.70 / box, doubled $1 / 3 coupon - total $.04
Milk - $1.47 / gallon at Walmart, used 6 cups - total $.55
Chocolate Chip Coconut Keebler cookies - on sale at Albertson's for $1.99
Coconut - $2.99 / bag at Smith's, used 1/2 - total - $1.50 (would've been cheaper at Walmart, but I forgot to buy it there)
Mini Chocolate Chips - 2.18 / bag at Walmart, used 1/3 cup - total - $.73
Cool Whip - on sale at Smith's for $1, used $1/2 coupon - total $.50
Grand Total - $5.35 for 15 servings, $.36 for each serving
Chocolate Pudding - On sale at Albertson's $.70 / box, doubled $1 / 3 coupon - total $.04
Vanilla Pudding - On sale at Albertson's $.70 / box, doubled $1 / 3 coupon - total $.04
Milk - $1.47 / gallon at Walmart, used 6 cups - total $.55
Chocolate Chip Coconut Keebler cookies - on sale at Albertson's for $1.99
Coconut - $2.99 / bag at Smith's, used 1/2 - total - $1.50 (would've been cheaper at Walmart, but I forgot to buy it there)
Mini Chocolate Chips - 2.18 / bag at Walmart, used 1/3 cup - total - $.73
Cool Whip - on sale at Smith's for $1, used $1/2 coupon - total $.50
Grand Total - $5.35 for 15 servings, $.36 for each serving
Onion & Chive Cream Cheese Turkey Sandwich
This sandwich is really nothing new or inventive. But, it's pretty tasty and I had all of the ingredients on hand. I happen to love cream cheese, if 2 oz of cream cheese is too much for ya though, just put what you want. See the recipe here
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.18
Oscar Mayer Sliced Turkey - on Price Cut at Target for $2.99 each, used $.75 printable coupon, and $1 / 2 Target Coupon - total $1.74, used 1/4 - total $.44
Cucumber - $.50 at Smith's, used 1/5 - total - $.10
Onion and Chive Cream Cheese - $2.00 / 8oz at Albertson's, doubled $1/2 coupon - $.50 for 8oz, used 2oz - $.13
Lettuce - $1.49 at Smith's, used 1 leaf - approximate total - $.10
Grand Total - $.95 for 1 serving.
You would pay at least 4 times that to get this sandwich at any restaurant or grocery store. Making food at home saves TONS of money! :o)
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.18
Oscar Mayer Sliced Turkey - on Price Cut at Target for $2.99 each, used $.75 printable coupon, and $1 / 2 Target Coupon - total $1.74, used 1/4 - total $.44
Cucumber - $.50 at Smith's, used 1/5 - total - $.10
Onion and Chive Cream Cheese - $2.00 / 8oz at Albertson's, doubled $1/2 coupon - $.50 for 8oz, used 2oz - $.13
Lettuce - $1.49 at Smith's, used 1 leaf - approximate total - $.10
Grand Total - $.95 for 1 serving.
You would pay at least 4 times that to get this sandwich at any restaurant or grocery store. Making food at home saves TONS of money! :o)
Sun Dried Tomato Crusted Chicken with Balsamic Glazed Onions and Cream Sauce
I've bought a lot of crackers recently for very little and wanted to come up with a recipe that used them. This is what I created - it's tasty! The tang of the balsamic vinegar cuts through the rich sauce and it all works together really well. See the recipe here.
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at But Low - total $2.00
Wheat Thins - $2.09 at Targer, used $1.00 coupon and $1 / 2 Target coupon - total $.59 for box, used 1/4 - total $.14
Flour- $.05
Egg - $1.00 / dozen at Smith's - used 1 - total $.08
2 Tbs vegetable oil - $.10
1 medium onion, quartered and thinly sliced - $.20 / lb at Walmart - total $.20
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar - $2.00 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - free!
1/2 cup milk - $.05
4oz sun dried tomato and basil Philadelphia cream cheese - $1.75 / 8oz, used $.75 coupon - $1.00 / 8oz, used 4oz - total - $.50
Grand total - $3.12 for 4 servings, $.78 for each serving
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at But Low - total $2.00
Wheat Thins - $2.09 at Targer, used $1.00 coupon and $1 / 2 Target coupon - total $.59 for box, used 1/4 - total $.14
Flour- $.05
Egg - $1.00 / dozen at Smith's - used 1 - total $.08
2 Tbs vegetable oil - $.10
1 medium onion, quartered and thinly sliced - $.20 / lb at Walmart - total $.20
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar - $2.00 at Alberton's, doubled $1.00 coupon - total - free!
1/2 cup milk - $.05
4oz sun dried tomato and basil Philadelphia cream cheese - $1.75 / 8oz, used $.75 coupon - $1.00 / 8oz, used 4oz - total - $.50
Grand total - $3.12 for 4 servings, $.78 for each serving
Grilled San Diego Pizza
I grew up in San Diego and one of the best places there to eat is Pat & Oscars. Everything on their menu is delicious! One of my parent’s favorites is the San Diego Pizza. I had it for the first time just a couple weeks ago and loved it. But, like most food at restaurants it is really easy to re-create yourself. I rarely enjoy eating at restaurants anymore because I know that I can make food just as good, at home, for a quarter of the price. For this reason, we rarely eat out as a family. I love to make restaurant meals at home – I know exactly what’s going into it, I can tweak it exactly to my taste and we save a lot of money. I also try not to use the oven during the summer (keeps the house cooler – saves on utilities), so I made this pizza on the grill. But, if you don’t have a grill, or don’t feel that ambitious, by all means, make this in the oven – it will still be tasty. If you have never grilled a pizza before, it can be a little daunting, but I encourage you to try it. It won’t turn out perfect – you can tell by my picture that mine’s a little misshapen and a couple of edges are over done (I kinda like the rustic look so I don’t mind). But, the crust gets nicely crisp and it has a smoky flavor (and it’s pretty darn impressive – you could entertain with this one). See the recipe here.
Here's what I spent on it:
Pizza dough – I used Pillsbury, $1.25 at Walmart (I didn’t have a coupon?! – why, I have no idea!)
Marinara Sauce – I used Bertolli, on sale at Smith’s for $1.67, used $1.00 coupon, total - $.67 for whole jar, used 1/3 – total $.22
Mozzarella cheese - $2.09 at Target, used $1.00 coupon plus $1/2 Target coupon – total $.59
Feta Cheese – I used Athenos Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Feta, $1.68 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon – total $.68
Avocado - $.50 at Walmart
Red Onion - $.20 / lb at Walmart – approximate total - $.05
Basil, Garlic Powder, Cornmeal – these are pantry item that I’ve had for a while and don’t know the exact cost, but I’m approximating $1.00 which is probably high
Mozzarella cheese - $2.09 at Target, used $1.00 coupon plus $1/2 Target coupon – total $.59
Feta Cheese – I used Athenos Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Feta, $1.68 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon – total $.68
Avocado - $.50 at Walmart
Red Onion - $.20 / lb at Walmart – approximate total - $.05
Basil, Garlic Powder, Cornmeal – these are pantry item that I’ve had for a while and don’t know the exact cost, but I’m approximating $1.00 which is probably high
Grand total - $4.29 for 4 servings, $1.07 / serving!
At Pat & Oscars, they charge $15.49 for this! That’s a lot of savings! Pair this with some seasonal fruits and veggies (like artichoke and strawberries) and you have a complete meal for a lot less than you’d spend at a restaurant.
Deviled Egg Salad Sandwich
Deviled eggs happen to be one of my favorite guilty pleasures in the kitchen. I absolutely love Easter time because I turn all of my kids died Easter eggs into deviled eggs and I devour them. The rest of the house is lucky they if they get any. I don't make them very often because they're not the healthiest of dishes and I have no self control. But, when I got a killer deal on eggs and bread earlier this week, my first thought was deviled egg salad sandwiches. It's a little healthier, in that there are veggies and whole grain bread in the mix. Here's what I spent on this recipe. If you want to see the recipe, visit my other blog here.
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 8 - total - $.35
Eggs - $.88 / dozen at But Low, used 8 - total - $.59
Kraft Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon, and $1 off Target coupon here - total - Free!!!
Tomatoes - $.99 / lb at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.44
Lettuce - $1.49 at Smith's, used 4 leafs - approximate total - $.40
Onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, dill, mustard, paprika - had in pantry, approximate total - $1.00
Grand Total - $3.13 for 4 servings, $.78 for each serving
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 8 - total - $.35
Eggs - $.88 / dozen at But Low, used 8 - total - $.59
Kraft Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon, and $1 off Target coupon here - total - Free!!!
Tomatoes - $.99 / lb at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.44
Lettuce - $1.49 at Smith's, used 4 leafs - approximate total - $.40
Onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, dill, mustard, paprika - had in pantry, approximate total - $1.00
Grand Total - $3.13 for 4 servings, $.78 for each serving
Curry Chicken and Grapes Wraps
While we were without air conditioning, we didn't do any cooking, at all. This is one of the recipes that we made. You can, of course, substitute 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts for the 2 cans of chicken. Just thinly slice them and saute them up and allow them to cool before adding to the rest of the ingredients. This recipe is based on one by Ina Garten. I simplified it and left out some of the pricier ingredients. If you have the extra money, you should try hers, the mango chutney really makes it special (yum!). But, it's pricey, so I omitted it from mine and used grapes instead of raisins because they are so cheap now. We didn't have any canned chicken in the house, so I had to go out and buy some at full price (so sad!). Next time a case lot sale comes up, I'll be stocking up on canned chicken so it doesn't happen again. Here's what I spent on this recipe:
Tortillas - $2.92 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total $1.92 for 8, used 4 - total $.96
Chicken - $2.19 / can at Smith's - total - $4.38 (ouch! - this is why you plan ahead!)
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low, used 8 leafs, approximate total - $.20
Celery - $.33 / stalk at Walmart, used 1 rib, approximate total - $.03
Green onions - $.50 / bunch at Walmart, used 3 - total - $.15
Grapes - $.88 / lb at Albertson's, used 1/2 lb - total - $.44
Cashew pieces - $3.78 / can at Walmart, used $1 / 2 coupon, total - $2.78 / can, used 1/4 of the can - total - $.70
Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon and $1 off Target coupon - total - Free!
Curry powder - I actually got this for free from my mom (she brought it back from a cruise), but it would be approximately $.15
Lemon juice - approximate total - $.05
Salt and pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $7.11 for 4 servings, $1.78 for each serving.
This could be a lot cheaper is you used fresh chicken and cooked it yourself.
Tortillas - $2.92 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total $1.92 for 8, used 4 - total $.96
Chicken - $2.19 / can at Smith's - total - $4.38 (ouch! - this is why you plan ahead!)
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low, used 8 leafs, approximate total - $.20
Celery - $.33 / stalk at Walmart, used 1 rib, approximate total - $.03
Green onions - $.50 / bunch at Walmart, used 3 - total - $.15
Grapes - $.88 / lb at Albertson's, used 1/2 lb - total - $.44
Cashew pieces - $3.78 / can at Walmart, used $1 / 2 coupon, total - $2.78 / can, used 1/4 of the can - total - $.70
Mayonnaise - $1.99 at Target, used $1.00 off coupon and $1 off Target coupon - total - Free!
Curry powder - I actually got this for free from my mom (she brought it back from a cruise), but it would be approximately $.15
Lemon juice - approximate total - $.05
Salt and pepper - approximate total - $.05
Grand Total - $7.11 for 4 servings, $1.78 for each serving.
This could be a lot cheaper is you used fresh chicken and cooked it yourself.
Cold Cuban Sandwiches
As I walked out of Smith's with my $.50 46oz bottle of pickles, my first thought was to make Cuban sandwiches. Typical Cuban sandwiches have roasted pork, ham, pickles, mustard and melted cheese, served on a sweet bread roll. Well, I wasn't in the mood for a hot sandwich so I decided to just serve ours cold and omit the cheese. I also added the banana slices to compensate for the plain rolls - they add just the right touch of sweetness. Now, if you think that the combination of pickles, mustard and bananas sound bizarre - trust me, it's good! The sandwich has a touch of sweet with the tangy pickles & mustard and the savory pork and ham - it's like a party in your mouth. You can find the recipe here.
Here's what I spent on it:
Pork - $1.88 / lb at Albertson's
Italian salad dressing - $1.67 at Albertson's, part of Buy $30 save $15 promo, used $.75 coupon - total - $.09, used half - total - $.04
Deli Sliced Ham - On sale at Albertson's for $2.50, doubled $.50 coupon - total - $1.50
Banana - $.3 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.16
Dill Pickle slices - On Sale at Smith's for $2.50 (46oz bottle!!!!!), doubled $1.00 coupon - total $.50 for whole bottle, used 1 1/2 pickles (they were whole, not sliced) - total - $.05
Mayonnaise - On Price Cut at Target for $1.99, used $1 coupon and $1 Target coupon - total - FREE!
Yellow Mustard - $1.49 at Albertson's, doubled $.75 coupon - total - free
Submarine rolls - $2.19 at Smith's for 6, used 4 - total - $1.46
Vegetable Oil - approximate total - $.10
Grand Total - $5.19 for 4 servings, $1.30 for each serving
Here's what I spent on it:
Pork - $1.88 / lb at Albertson's
Italian salad dressing - $1.67 at Albertson's, part of Buy $30 save $15 promo, used $.75 coupon - total - $.09, used half - total - $.04
Deli Sliced Ham - On sale at Albertson's for $2.50, doubled $.50 coupon - total - $1.50
Banana - $.3 / lb at Buy Low, used 1 - total - $.16
Dill Pickle slices - On Sale at Smith's for $2.50 (46oz bottle!!!!!), doubled $1.00 coupon - total $.50 for whole bottle, used 1 1/2 pickles (they were whole, not sliced) - total - $.05
Mayonnaise - On Price Cut at Target for $1.99, used $1 coupon and $1 Target coupon - total - FREE!
Yellow Mustard - $1.49 at Albertson's, doubled $.75 coupon - total - free
Submarine rolls - $2.19 at Smith's for 6, used 4 - total - $1.46
Vegetable Oil - approximate total - $.10
Grand Total - $5.19 for 4 servings, $1.30 for each serving
Pineapple Green Chili Chicken Salad
As you've seen before, I enjoy making restaurant knock offs in my own kitchen. It saves a lot of money and you get to eat really yummy food. This one is inspired by Bajio's Chicken Green Chili Salad with Mango Salsa. The salad is divine and pretty healthy too. If you look at the total cost at the bottom of this post, it seems pretty expensive for a home cooked meal (especially on a frugal food site). But this isn't an everyday meal. And it is a whole lot cheaper than going to the actual restaurant. You can make restaurant quality food in your own kitchen. You can see the recipe here.
Pablano pepper - $1.20 at Smith's
Tomatillo - $.60 at Smith's
Cilantro - $.25 at Buy Low
Green chilies - $.59 at Walmart
Pineapple - $1.00 at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total - $.50
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low - total - $.25
Chicken breasts - $1.50 / lb at Smith's, used 3 breasts - total - $1.80
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low
Tortillas - $2.03 / 10 at Walmart, used $.35 coupon – total for 10 $1.68, used 4 – total - $.81
Cheese $- 2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 4oz - total - $.30
Crushed tortilla chips - I count these as free since they would normally be thrown away
Lime juice, Sugar, Apple cider vinegar, Olive Oil, Chili Powder, Cumin, salt and pepper - pantry - approximate total - $1.50
Grand Total - $.8.79 for 4 servings, $2.20 for each serving
Pablano pepper - $1.20 at Smith's
Tomatillo - $.60 at Smith's
Cilantro - $.25 at Buy Low
Green chilies - $.59 at Walmart
Pineapple - $1.00 at Walmart, used $.50 coupon - total - $.50
Onion - $.25 / lb at Buy Low - total - $.25
Chicken breasts - $1.50 / lb at Smith's, used 3 breasts - total - $1.80
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low
Tortillas - $2.03 / 10 at Walmart, used $.35 coupon – total for 10 $1.68, used 4 – total - $.81
Cheese $- 2.09 for 8 oz bag at Target, used $1.00 printable coupon and $1/2 Target coupon - total $.59 for 8 oz, used 4oz - total - $.30
Crushed tortilla chips - I count these as free since they would normally be thrown away
Lime juice, Sugar, Apple cider vinegar, Olive Oil, Chili Powder, Cumin, salt and pepper - pantry - approximate total - $1.50
Grand Total - $.8.79 for 4 servings, $2.20 for each serving
Cali Burritos
This is our family's favorite burrito recipe. My recipe is an edited version of Tyler Florence's recipe. While this recipe isn't incredibly cheap, it tastes amazing, so if you're looking for restaurant quality taste, but with a cook-at-home price - this recipe is perfect for that. Using beans and rice to fill out a meal is always a great way to keep costs down. But, beans and rice don't have a lot of flavor and so they aren't my favorite. The sauce in this recipe packs a huge flavor punch, so there's nothing bland about the beans and rice here. You can find my recipe here.
Here's what I spent on it:
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low - total - $1.00
Black beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 / can
Rice - bought at Smith's case lot sale 2 years ago (!) - $10.99 / 20lbs, used 1/2 cup - total - $.11
Onion - $.25 / lb at Walmart - total - $.35
Chicken stock - home made - approximate total - $.25
Cilantro - $.50 at Walmart
Orange - can't find my recipt for this, but I'm guessing it was around $.50 (it's not orange season and I know they were pretty expensive / lb)
Lime - 5 / $1.00 at Buy Low - total - $.20
Pineapple juice (I drain the pineapple juice from a can of pineapple and use that) - I count this as free because I use the juice that would normally be thrown away
Chipotle pepper - $1.26 / can at Walmart, used 1 - approxmiate total - $.15
Garlic $2.48 / lb at Walmart - total for 1 bulb - $.42, used 1 clove - approximate total - $.04
Honey - $13.96 / half gal at Sam's Club, used 2 Tbs - total - $.24
salt and pepper - approximate total - $.10
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.10
Tortillas - $2.92 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total $1.92 for 8, used 4 - total $.96
Avocados - $.69 each at Walmart - total - $1.38
Sour cream - $.88 / 16oz at Buy Low, used 1/2 cup - total - $.22
Grand Total - $7.38 for 4 servings, $1.85 for each serving
Here's what I spent on it:
Chicken - $1.69 / lb at Buy Low - total - $1.00
Black beans - bought at Smith's case lot sale - $.38 / can
Rice - bought at Smith's case lot sale 2 years ago (!) - $10.99 / 20lbs, used 1/2 cup - total - $.11
Onion - $.25 / lb at Walmart - total - $.35
Chicken stock - home made - approximate total - $.25
Cilantro - $.50 at Walmart
Orange - can't find my recipt for this, but I'm guessing it was around $.50 (it's not orange season and I know they were pretty expensive / lb)
Lime - 5 / $1.00 at Buy Low - total - $.20
Pineapple juice (I drain the pineapple juice from a can of pineapple and use that) - I count this as free because I use the juice that would normally be thrown away
Chipotle pepper - $1.26 / can at Walmart, used 1 - approxmiate total - $.15
Garlic $2.48 / lb at Walmart - total for 1 bulb - $.42, used 1 clove - approximate total - $.04
Honey - $13.96 / half gal at Sam's Club, used 2 Tbs - total - $.24
salt and pepper - approximate total - $.10
Vegetable oil - approximate total - $.10
Tortillas - $2.92 at Walmart, used $1.00 coupon - total $1.92 for 8, used 4 - total $.96
Avocados - $.69 each at Walmart - total - $1.38
Sour cream - $.88 / 16oz at Buy Low, used 1/2 cup - total - $.22
Grand Total - $7.38 for 4 servings, $1.85 for each serving
Strawberry Cream Cheese Turkey Sandwich
This probably sounds like and odd sandwich, but trust me, it's tasty. We had a similar sandwich at one of our wedding receptions (I can't remember exactly what was on it, but this recipe is pretty close). I know apples aren't in season, but I got a great price on them, so I decided to use them to make this sandwich. Bread has also been very cheap recently so we're eating a lot of sandwiches. You can see the recipe here.
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.18
Deli sliced turkey breast - on Price Cut at Target for $2.99 each, used $.75 printable coupon, and $1 / 2 Target Coupon - total $1.74, used 1/3 - total $.52
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low, used 1 leaf - approximate total - $.05
Strawberry cream cheese - $2.00 / 8oz at Albertson's, doubled $1/2 coupon - $.50 for 8oz, used 2oz - $.13
Granny smith apple - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1/3 of an apple - total - $.05
Grand Total - $.93 for 1 serving (I'm pretty sure we paid at least twice that for each sandwich at our wedding reception)
Bread - $.88 / loaf at Buy Low, used 2 - total - $.18
Deli sliced turkey breast - on Price Cut at Target for $2.99 each, used $.75 printable coupon, and $1 / 2 Target Coupon - total $1.74, used 1/3 - total $.52
Lettuce - $.99 / head at Buy Low, used 1 leaf - approximate total - $.05
Strawberry cream cheese - $2.00 / 8oz at Albertson's, doubled $1/2 coupon - $.50 for 8oz, used 2oz - $.13
Granny smith apple - $.25 / lb at Buy Low, used 1/3 of an apple - total - $.05
Grand Total - $.93 for 1 serving (I'm pretty sure we paid at least twice that for each sandwich at our wedding reception)
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