With the economy in turmoil, we are all looking for a cost break when it comes to meals. I know that I am eating out less – I’m betting you are too. Actually, what I am learning is that the meals we have at home are better tasting and healthier for us than restaurant meals. But the real plus is that meal time at home seems to be more relaxed and conversation friendly, providing a really positive experience.
I do like to shop for what is on sale and use coupons as much as possible – smart I think. But I also like to cook meals that are tasty and healthy – and that others (family and friends) will like and eat. When you start figuring the cost of a meal at home in comparison to a restaurant meal though, you can get a real awakening. Here’s a good example.
Featured this month in our newsletter (sign up for it here) is one of my favorite Italian recipes, Turkey and Spinach Manicotti. It’s easy to make, satisfying and delicious. (Be sure to read the great reviews.) The big plus though is the cost – about $10.00 for the whole recipe. Use the coupons on the site for two of the ingredients in the recipe, pasta sauce and frozen spinach, and you’ll shave $2.00 off this amount. So if you break that down and include the coupon savings, it’s only about $2.00 per serving – a true bargain. Even adding a salad or bread doesn’t bring it anywhere near what this would cost in a restaurant! Here's a picture to tempt your taste buds.
Guess I’ll be eating Italian at home tonight, and saving some money – how about you?
