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Ask the Expert
Ellie Kay, best-selling author
Q: Grocery shopping is a giant wallet buster in my house. How can I save money without sparing quality, nutritious food for my family?
A: You're right, the healthiest foods tend to be the most expensive. For instance, whole-wheat pasta costs more than bleached, and organic vegetables almost always cost more than processed. Do not be discouraged, however. It is possible to take care of your family's nutritional needs and save money without sacrificing quality.
The key is to purchase those healthful items, but limit yourself to those foods. It's counter-productive to go to the store and splurge on an expensive package of lean turkey cutlets and then proceed to stock up on bags of frozen chicken nuggets for the kids. Instead, cut up nugget-sized pieces of the turkey breast, bake them in a coat of breadcrumbs (instead of frying), and stick them in the freezer. They'll last all week.
Start thinking creatively. While it's quick and easy, a cheap box of mac 'n cheese is chock full of salt and preservatives -- and it only lasts for one meal. Instead, buy a pound of whole-wheat pasta and a chunk of your favorite fresh cheese, add some fresh veggies, and whip them together for a nutritious version of mac 'n cheese that the family will love -- and that will provide leftovers for at least a few meals.
Also, find ways to get extensive use out of your healthy food items. Olive oil can be expensive, but a little bit goes a long way so don't over pour. Use it in your recipes instead of butter. Try cutting strips of potatoes with the skin on and roasting them to make delicious french-fries that are cheaper and healthier than store-bought. Make a large pot of soup once a week with fresh ingredients instead of buying those four-for-a-dollar salt-water "soups."
The pattern to strive for is buying the foods you want and using them to their fullest capacity. If you're used to microwaving packaged foods, it may take some practice to adapt to this new cooking style, but the nutritional benefits will be enormous -- and your wallet will thank you.
Ellie Kay is a national speaker, financial expert, and the best-selling author of eight books, including her most recent release, The Debt Diet. She is the mother of five and makes her home in Palmdale, California.
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