Cash Savers

Okay, so I started this while on my summer study abroad and I don't really have much access to my recipe book. But, I thought I'd do a quick post on some good ways to save cash if you are willing to take the time. In a few weeks when I get home, prepare for recipes galore.

1. Cut coupons and stock up during sales. If you live in a cramped apartment look into finding a large airtight bin that you can put things like cans and pasta boxes in. Store this under your bed or anywhere there is some space. Stores often have good sales on pasta and bulk items. Buy a few more than you need next time there is a sale, and you can save money in the long run.
2. Make your meal plans after looking at the sales. For internet savvy people, most stores post their weekly sales online. If fish is on sale, cook fish for the week. If ground beef is on sale, look into something that uses beef.
3. Learn to make bread. It doesn't take nearly as long as you would think, and if you
make a large enough batch and freeze some of the loafs you can have bread for the next month. Buying bread at the store often costs anywhere from three to five dollars depending on brand and where you live. Making a loaf of bread costs fifty cents per loaf. So, if you eat a lot of bread, this could be a good way to go.
4. Cook from scratch. This also takes less time than you would expect and you'll be much happier with your results. Also, the less processed your food is, the healthier you will be.
5. Look into joining or forming a dinner group. This can be a good way to save cash and time. Depending on the size of your group you can cook as little as once a week and still have a hot dinner ready in the evening.