By zp7op | Contributor
The increasing costs of groceries, fuel, and essential household goods can be challenging to overlook. Many families are feeling the impact of rising prices, especially when shopping for food.
However, with some strategic planning, you can maximize your budget at the grocery store while still enjoying nutritious and tasty meals. Consider these money-saving strategies from Healthy Family Project and look for the Produce for Kids logo in your local produce section. These brands contribute to local communities and promote nutrition education and awareness.
Meal Planning. Creating a weekly meal plan can help you determine which ingredients can be reused in various dishes, ultimately saving you money by avoiding unnecessary purchases. After finalizing your meals, make a shopping list and stick to it to limit impulse spending.
Choose Seasonal Produce. Generally, fresh fruits and vegetables are more expensive when they are out of season due to limited availability. In-season produce not only tends to be more affordable but also offers better flavor.
Simplify Ingredient Lists. Family-friendly meals that are quick to prepare often feature fewer ingredients. For instance, recipes like Grilled Peach Flatbread with Goat Cheese and Mixed Berry Pizza with Oatmeal Coconut Crust can be made with 15 ingredients or less and ready in just half an hour, allowing more time for family.
Find additional family-oriented recipes and tips for cutting grocery expenses at healthyfamilyproject.com.
Mixed Berry Pizza with Oatmeal Coconut Crust
Recipe compliments of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
1 egg
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling, divided
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 pinch of salt
1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
1/2 lemon, juiced
3 strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup blueberries
1/4 cup blackberries
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a mixing bowl, combine egg, rolled oats, coconut, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, 1/4 cup honey, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until well mixed.
Spread the mixture evenly into a greased springform pan and bake for 20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
After removing from the oven, let it cool.
In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice.
Once the oatmeal crust is completely baked, use a spatula to spread the lemon-yogurt mixture on top.
Finish by adding sliced strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries. Drizzle with extra honey on top.
Grilled Peach Flatbread with Goat Cheese
Recipe compliments of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
2 large naan or flatbreads
2 fresh peaches, sliced
1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh arugula (optional)
Heat up the grill or grill pan.
Grill the naan until slightly softened and marks appear.
Place peach slices on the grill and cook for about 1 minute on each side.
Using a pastry brush, apply olive oil to the naan.
Top the naan with goat cheese and grilled peaches.
Return to the grill over low heat, cover, and cook for 3-5 minutes.
Add fresh arugula if desired.
Before cutting and serving, drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
