Making a nice large pot of marinara sauce will give you many more meals!
Meal One: Spaghetti and Meatballs
Meal Two: Use the leftover sauce and Meatballs in Calzones!
Meal Three: Use leftover sauce and meatballs on pizza crust.
Meal Four: Saute chicken pieces with onion and garlic in a little extra-virgin olive oil. Add leftover Marinara Sauce, fresh broccoli crowns, sliced red bell pepper, julienne carrots, black olives and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to make a delicious Chicken Puttanesca. Serve with pasta of your choice.
Meal Five: Brown Italian Sausage (either sweet, spicy or both) and add sliced onion, chopped garlic and sliced green bell pepper. Add sauce!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Important Tips for Stretching Your Food Dollars!
STEP 1. PLANNING YOUR FOOD BUDGET
Planning your food budget is one of the most important things you can do to save money. With a food budget you are less likely to overspend and run out of food. Think about how much it costs each month to feed your family. Set a number in your mind and see if you can stick to it. You may have to be flexible, but try sticking to the number you feel is attainable. Use the steps below to help you!
Step 2: KEEP A FULL CUPBOARD!
Buy on sale and in bulk!
Staples are foods that help you avoid having a bare cupboard, and are not going to go bad. These might include peanut butter, flour, corn meal, sugar, dry milk, dry or canned beans, tuna, rice, pasta, spices, and salt.
Hint: Watch the ads and buy these staples in bulk when they're on sale. Your cupboard will always be full and you're now ready to move onto step 3!
Step 3: TAKE INVENTORY
Check to see what you already have -- be sure to look in your cupboards, your freezer, and your refrigerator. Keep plenty of staples on hand -- they store well, and stretch meals. "Staples" are also called "just in case foods." Here are some examples:
Pasta, rice, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, canned green beans and corn, jarred spaghetti sauce, raisins, canned or dry fruit, canned tuna and clams, canned and dry beans, peanut, almond and cashew butters, canned soups, and canned and dry milk.
IMPORTANT! Taking inventory of what you have on hand will keep you from buying food you don't need.
Step 4: WATCH THE ADS
Check the ads for sales -- if you are almost out of something and it is on sale, put it on your list! As you look through the ads, you will get some ideas about what you'd like to cook. You might notice that certain items cost less when "in season" -- for example, zucchini might be $1.29 per pound in the winter, and only 39 cents a pound in late summer.
Try shopping at your local Farmer's Market to find fresh, local produce at a good price.
Step 5: PLAN YOUR WEEKLY MEALS, MAKE A LIST AND STICK TO IT!!
Once you've checked the ads and looked at your staples, make a weekly list of meals. Make sure you look at your calendar to see how much time you have each day and plan accordingly. Using the staples and ads will help you plan for the week and will also keep your list down and money in your pocket.
Avoid grocery shopping when you're hungry. Impulsive buying will cost you! Try not to go into the store for, what I call, the $50 gallon of milk. How many times have we entered the grocery store just for a gallon of milk and come out with three bags of unneeded groceries? Happens to the best of us!
MAKE EXTRA AND USE FOR ANOTHER MEAL OR TWO! (See One Meal =Three on the Cooking with Elise facebook page)
It helps to keep a notepad on the refrigerator or in a drawer -- that way, when you run out of something during the week, you can write it down before you forget. If you're ready to prepare a meal that you planned, but don't have that one ingredient you might be less apt to cook that night and resort to take out or a restaurant, ultimately costing you more money, so be sure you write it down right away!
Step 6: WHAT TO COOK?
Choose items that are healthy for your family. This will save you money in the end. You are what you eat! If you feed your family junk and processed foods, which seem to be cheaper, you'll end up having doctor bills out the wazoo!
Step 7: STORE STRATEGIES
Your shopping list is your "PLAN" for the week -- and your job is to STICK TO THE PLAN!
It is very easy to come home with foods that aren't in your food budget. Grocery stores work hard to get you to buy more than you planned. When this happens, the food dollars run out too soon.
We looked at strategies you can use at home to stretch your food dollars. Now, let's look at strategies you can use at the grocery store:
IF YOU ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO GO TO THE STORE FOR ONE ITEM, LEAVE THE GROCERY CART AT THE DOOR!! Grab the item and GO!
* Brand name vs. generic?
Ever wonder what the difference is between the "name" brand and the generic brand of a food? Usually, dollars and cents!
Companies spend a lot of money on advertising to get you to buy their brand -- but they aren't spending their money, they are spending your money.
The store brand or generic brand almost always costs less, and usually tastes the same. In fact, they often use the very same ingredients.
Try doing a "blind" taste-test with your kids: buy a generic and a name-brand box of the same cereal; pour two bowls, and don't tell them which one is generic -- see if they can guess the difference
* Check the "Unit Price"
The "unit price" of a food is the price per pound or per ounce. When comparing the cost of two different sizes of the same food, or two different brands that are of different weights, it can be hard to figure out which one is a better buy. The tag on the shelf should tell you the total price and the unit price -- this way, you can get the best deal.
You will find that often the larger container is cheaper. Even though you pay more up front for the large size, you are getting a cheaper price overall.
Buy larger sizes of staple foods if you have the storage space and money in your food budget.
* Watch for "Hidden Persuaders"
Hidden Persuaders can get us to spend more money than we have on things we didn't plan to buy. Here are some hidden persuaders to watch out for:
High-sugar cereal box
Time: the more time you spend in the store, the more money you spend. It helps to stick to your list!
Shelf level and position: foods at eye-level are more expensive -- this means your eyes and your children's eyes!
Temptations -- samples: it is fun to sample new food, but often these are expensive convenience foods, and very rarely are they generic brands or sale items.
Convenience: there are so many "ready-to-eat" foods available, and are they ever tempting! Keep in mind that making it yourself will almost always save you money, and will be healthier for your family.
Coupons: clipping coupons can save you money -- but remember, coupons are usually for name brands. Even with a coupon (or sometimes double coupons!) the generic brand often still costs less. You have to do a little math, but it is well worth the time.
* Reading labels
Reading labels is a great way to make sure you get the best nutrition for your food dollar. By looking at the "Nutrition Facts" label, you can watch your intake of fats and sugar, and compare amounts of nutrients like fiber, iron, and calcium.
* List of ingredients
Foods that have a Nutrition Facts label will also have in "ingredients" list. The ingredients are listed from "most" to "least" -- in other words, if sugar is the first ingredient, you know that the food is mostly sugar! It is good to check the ingredients list of foods like cereal and juice, and other foods that often contain added sugar.
Here's a tip: Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes usually have no added fat or added sugar.
STEP 8: BE FLEXIBLE!
Be flexible -- if you see an unadvertised special that is too good to pass up, change your plan -- add that food to your list. Sometimes grocers need to make room in a hurry, and mark staple items down for quick sale. Other times, perishable foods like meat, milk, or produce are marked down for quick sale. Be sure to use these up quickly or freeze, and throw away anything that smells or tastes bad.
Planning your food budget is one of the most important things you can do to save money. With a food budget you are less likely to overspend and run out of food. Think about how much it costs each month to feed your family. Set a number in your mind and see if you can stick to it. You may have to be flexible, but try sticking to the number you feel is attainable. Use the steps below to help you!
Step 2: KEEP A FULL CUPBOARD!
Buy on sale and in bulk!
Staples are foods that help you avoid having a bare cupboard, and are not going to go bad. These might include peanut butter, flour, corn meal, sugar, dry milk, dry or canned beans, tuna, rice, pasta, spices, and salt.
Hint: Watch the ads and buy these staples in bulk when they're on sale. Your cupboard will always be full and you're now ready to move onto step 3!
Step 3: TAKE INVENTORY
Check to see what you already have -- be sure to look in your cupboards, your freezer, and your refrigerator. Keep plenty of staples on hand -- they store well, and stretch meals. "Staples" are also called "just in case foods." Here are some examples:
Pasta, rice, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, canned green beans and corn, jarred spaghetti sauce, raisins, canned or dry fruit, canned tuna and clams, canned and dry beans, peanut, almond and cashew butters, canned soups, and canned and dry milk.
IMPORTANT! Taking inventory of what you have on hand will keep you from buying food you don't need.
Step 4: WATCH THE ADS
Check the ads for sales -- if you are almost out of something and it is on sale, put it on your list! As you look through the ads, you will get some ideas about what you'd like to cook. You might notice that certain items cost less when "in season" -- for example, zucchini might be $1.29 per pound in the winter, and only 39 cents a pound in late summer.
Try shopping at your local Farmer's Market to find fresh, local produce at a good price.
Step 5: PLAN YOUR WEEKLY MEALS, MAKE A LIST AND STICK TO IT!!
Once you've checked the ads and looked at your staples, make a weekly list of meals. Make sure you look at your calendar to see how much time you have each day and plan accordingly. Using the staples and ads will help you plan for the week and will also keep your list down and money in your pocket.
Avoid grocery shopping when you're hungry. Impulsive buying will cost you! Try not to go into the store for, what I call, the $50 gallon of milk. How many times have we entered the grocery store just for a gallon of milk and come out with three bags of unneeded groceries? Happens to the best of us!
MAKE EXTRA AND USE FOR ANOTHER MEAL OR TWO! (See One Meal =Three on the Cooking with Elise facebook page)
It helps to keep a notepad on the refrigerator or in a drawer -- that way, when you run out of something during the week, you can write it down before you forget. If you're ready to prepare a meal that you planned, but don't have that one ingredient you might be less apt to cook that night and resort to take out or a restaurant, ultimately costing you more money, so be sure you write it down right away!
Step 6: WHAT TO COOK?
Choose items that are healthy for your family. This will save you money in the end. You are what you eat! If you feed your family junk and processed foods, which seem to be cheaper, you'll end up having doctor bills out the wazoo!
Step 7: STORE STRATEGIES
Your shopping list is your "PLAN" for the week -- and your job is to STICK TO THE PLAN!
It is very easy to come home with foods that aren't in your food budget. Grocery stores work hard to get you to buy more than you planned. When this happens, the food dollars run out too soon.
We looked at strategies you can use at home to stretch your food dollars. Now, let's look at strategies you can use at the grocery store:
IF YOU ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO GO TO THE STORE FOR ONE ITEM, LEAVE THE GROCERY CART AT THE DOOR!! Grab the item and GO!
* Brand name vs. generic?
Ever wonder what the difference is between the "name" brand and the generic brand of a food? Usually, dollars and cents!
Companies spend a lot of money on advertising to get you to buy their brand -- but they aren't spending their money, they are spending your money.
The store brand or generic brand almost always costs less, and usually tastes the same. In fact, they often use the very same ingredients.
Try doing a "blind" taste-test with your kids: buy a generic and a name-brand box of the same cereal; pour two bowls, and don't tell them which one is generic -- see if they can guess the difference
* Check the "Unit Price"
The "unit price" of a food is the price per pound or per ounce. When comparing the cost of two different sizes of the same food, or two different brands that are of different weights, it can be hard to figure out which one is a better buy. The tag on the shelf should tell you the total price and the unit price -- this way, you can get the best deal.
You will find that often the larger container is cheaper. Even though you pay more up front for the large size, you are getting a cheaper price overall.
Buy larger sizes of staple foods if you have the storage space and money in your food budget.
* Watch for "Hidden Persuaders"
Hidden Persuaders can get us to spend more money than we have on things we didn't plan to buy. Here are some hidden persuaders to watch out for:
High-sugar cereal box
Time: the more time you spend in the store, the more money you spend. It helps to stick to your list!
Shelf level and position: foods at eye-level are more expensive -- this means your eyes and your children's eyes!
Temptations -- samples: it is fun to sample new food, but often these are expensive convenience foods, and very rarely are they generic brands or sale items.
Convenience: there are so many "ready-to-eat" foods available, and are they ever tempting! Keep in mind that making it yourself will almost always save you money, and will be healthier for your family.
Coupons: clipping coupons can save you money -- but remember, coupons are usually for name brands. Even with a coupon (or sometimes double coupons!) the generic brand often still costs less. You have to do a little math, but it is well worth the time.
* Reading labels
Reading labels is a great way to make sure you get the best nutrition for your food dollar. By looking at the "Nutrition Facts" label, you can watch your intake of fats and sugar, and compare amounts of nutrients like fiber, iron, and calcium.
* List of ingredients
Foods that have a Nutrition Facts label will also have in "ingredients" list. The ingredients are listed from "most" to "least" -- in other words, if sugar is the first ingredient, you know that the food is mostly sugar! It is good to check the ingredients list of foods like cereal and juice, and other foods that often contain added sugar.
Here's a tip: Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes usually have no added fat or added sugar.
STEP 8: BE FLEXIBLE!
Be flexible -- if you see an unadvertised special that is too good to pass up, change your plan -- add that food to your list. Sometimes grocers need to make room in a hurry, and mark staple items down for quick sale. Other times, perishable foods like meat, milk, or produce are marked down for quick sale. Be sure to use these up quickly or freeze, and throw away anything that smells or tastes bad.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
May the Calling Commence!
Epic Realm Productions and I shot the four holiday videos yesterday. We invited a local family to join us and had a ball! I just love this time of year! Over the next couple of days, a new holiday video will come out, so make sure to look for the links on my Cooking with Elise facebook page or go to the CookingwithElise (no spaces) YouTube channel! Please post your comments and pictures!
We showcased recipes that are delicious, quick, can be made well in advance and economical! Sounds good, right? We put together an arsenal of time-saving recipes, helpful tips and economical ideas to make your next gathering stress-free and enjoyable! I've got some perfect recipes that can double as gifts for your friends in family, too!
The minute the first holiday video is broadcasted on YouTube, I'll be calling to follow up with the four local news stations. Don't you think they should have some special holiday cooking segments? As you know, I sent them a DVD and a letter last week, so now I must follow up! I must be determined and steadfast in my efforts if I expect a positive outcome! ...Stay tuned...
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Delicious, Easy and Beautiful Holiday Treats
Tomorrow we are shooting the Holiday Treats video. Have no fear; Elise is here! These easy recipes are delicious and quick, won't break the bank and are sure to impress all of your guests! Easy to store, these treats will keep all month long, satisfy sweet and savory lovers and will be ready for surprise guests or planned parties! Watch for the video link on my facebook page! If you have any questions about holiday planning or recipes, please let me know by midnight tonight and I'll answer them on the video. Happy baking!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
"Don't bunt. Aim out of the ballpark!
David MacKenzie Ogilvy, known as "The Father of Advertising" said it well, "Don't bunt. Aim out of the ballpark!"
For those of you who don't know me personally, I'll tell you a secret: I've always looked out of rose colored glasses, and so life for me, has always been a chance to aim out of the ballpark and dream BIG!
Because of the encouragement of so many across the country, I decided to take the plunge and make a cooking video for the Food Network, television executives, producers and public relations companies. I'm shooting for the stars!
What inspires me? Well, my grandmother, Isabel, who immigrated to the United States from Portugal, could not read or write, therefore none of her incredible recipes were ever written down, but she took the time to cook with me daily. My grandmother’s life has always been an inspiration to me and so I wrote a cookbook that is dedicated to my grandmother and is written for my children. Memories from the Kitchen includes two hundred of my family recipes. Many have inquired about my cookbook and I am now in the process of self publishing it. I can’t tell you how meaningful it is to have some of my grandmother’s recipes nestled within the pages of my cookbook. And now our love of people and food will forever be written in ink. The passion once shared between my grandmother and me, has been passed onto my children and so many others. In addition to my cooking classes, this cookbook will extend our passion of people and food to others and will encourage them to share time with their families in the kitchen. I know my grandmother would be elated!
I hold dear the vivid memories of my grandmother daily. Just this past Easter, something incredible happened. I was making the Portuguese Sweet Bread, known as Massa Sovado, that my grandmother made every year. Although my grandmother passed away almost twenty years ago, as I kneaded the bread recollections of her kneading the Massa flooded my mind. I don't recall her telling me why she did this, but through observation, she would use her precious fingers to indent a sign of the cross on the top of the bread before it rose. Why hadn't I noticed the significance of this before? You see I realized, that as the dough rose, the cross disappeared which not only showed her that the bread had fully risen, but this served as a reminder of Christ's resurrection! How 'bout that? I have loved her Portuguese Sweet Bread as far back as I can remember, but I am continually reminded of the lessons she taught me even if they were not spoken. Actions truly speak louder than words!
So, get into the kitchen with your families and make memories, and don't forget to AIM OUT OF THE BALLPARK!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Okay, am I the only one who is challenged by the computer? :) I love challenges, I just don't want my computer to know that! My wonderful husband, Mike and son Nathaniel helped me complete a couple of things and everything will be mailed off today! My family suggests that I take a computer class at the local community college..hmm...not a bad idea!
Thankfully, I overcame those challenges and will be heading out first thing this morning, so please keep praying! Thank you!
You know, another weird thing happened last night. As I was relaxing getting ready to watch the Biggest Loser with my family, a commercial came on the Food Network. You know that's what I watch 90% of the time. :) I am noticing a pattern though. They were directing families to go to a short video on their website. The video featured simple ideas for cooking with your children. How exciting! They are definitely promoting families to get into the kitchen together! As you know by now, that's one of my life's missions. Perhaps THAT'S WHY Guy Fiery asked me, "Do you cook with kids?" I thought that was ironic, but sense from a little research that the Food Network is definitely heading in that direction. Wouldn't it be something if I sent my video in at the perfect time? God's timing is perfect and we'll see what plans he has for me...hopefully a perfect storm!
Thankfully, I overcame those challenges and will be heading out first thing this morning, so please keep praying! Thank you!
You know, another weird thing happened last night. As I was relaxing getting ready to watch the Biggest Loser with my family, a commercial came on the Food Network. You know that's what I watch 90% of the time. :) I am noticing a pattern though. They were directing families to go to a short video on their website. The video featured simple ideas for cooking with your children. How exciting! They are definitely promoting families to get into the kitchen together! As you know by now, that's one of my life's missions. Perhaps THAT'S WHY Guy Fiery asked me, "Do you cook with kids?" I thought that was ironic, but sense from a little research that the Food Network is definitely heading in that direction. Wouldn't it be something if I sent my video in at the perfect time? God's timing is perfect and we'll see what plans he has for me...hopefully a perfect storm!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Okay everyone! I've got a busy day ahead of me, but I love it! I also love the recipe requests I've been getting. Keep them coming! I've been up since 5:00 am. Couldn't sleep! I'm too excited and there's much to do!
All the DVD's, letters, envelopes, and address labels with my picture on them...(hey, I've got to attract their attention...smile) are complete, and of course I didn't forget my business cards! The list of recipients is long, but promising. I'm sending my DVDs, letters and business cards, to public relations people, production companies, local news channels and of course, the Food Network!
I am hoping to reach 100 fans today on my facebook page...only four to go! Thank you for your encouragement and prayers. I have been enjoying all of the emails and comments. I'm dreaming big! Can't wait to see what happens! Please keep praying!
All the DVD's, letters, envelopes, and address labels with my picture on them...(hey, I've got to attract their attention...smile) are complete, and of course I didn't forget my business cards! The list of recipients is long, but promising. I'm sending my DVDs, letters and business cards, to public relations people, production companies, local news channels and of course, the Food Network!
I am hoping to reach 100 fans today on my facebook page...only four to go! Thank you for your encouragement and prayers. I have been enjoying all of the emails and comments. I'm dreaming big! Can't wait to see what happens! Please keep praying!
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