One Solution to Reduce Takeout and Fast Food Trips

Everyone has one of "those" nights when you are pressed for time or just don't feel like cooking. Maybe you don't have anything in the freezer to pop in the oven or forgot to stick the meat in the refrigerator to thaw in time. It's easy to pick up the phone and order pizza or run through the drive through in between activities, and really, once in a while, it's okay. Sometimes spending money to reduce your stress level is a good thing, as long as it's not a frequent occasion. But when you are watching your pennies, a little preparation even a week or two ahead of time can save you a bundle. That's why I always have the ingredients for several of our favorite, fast and easy meals on hand. Flavorful Chicken has saved me a number of times. It takes just a few ingredients, takes maybe 5 minutes prep time, and, being one of DS's favorite dishes, I can't serve it often enough for him! Add corn and a salad, and you're ready to go. Tacos are another easy dish. Every time I go to Aldi's, I make sure to pick up a packet of taco mix for 59-cents. Even if I haven't thawed the ground beef, I just put the frozen hunk in a skillet to cook through, and it doesn't make a difference in the end result. Plus, if you top the taco with lots of lettuce and tomatoes, you've got your veggies without having to add an additional side dish.

Look through your favorite recipes and see which ones you always have the ingredients for. Then stow away that bit of information and use it the next time you're tempted to pick up the phone for delivery pizza.