Avoid ready-made meals and save

Convenience has its perks -- but it comes with a price.  Take for instance frozen dinners.  Even though they are easy and quick, they are generally not economical.  Compare the price to cooking the same meal from scratch can cost much less, and not be filled with salt and preservatives. 

Keep your pantry and refrigerator stocked with some basic core ingredients such as onions, carrots, potatoes, canned tomatoes and sauces, pasta, rice, fresh vegetables, meat and poultry.  These are the core ingredients to prepare a well balanced and economical meal.

Now, I am not saying never to rely on pre-packaged meals. In a pinch they a welcomed alternative to preparing a meal. When you do decide to fill your freezer with ready-made options -- be watchful for sales and clip coupons to offset the price for convenience.

Happy shopping!

Laurie Dixon