What to do between shopping days?

ashesfromfire

My budget only allows for grocery shoping about one every other week. Since I just shop for myself its not soooo difficult but usually by day 11, 12, 13 my kitchen is running dry and my bank account is empty. What do you do when you're low on healthy choices and money?

eazieske

well store food or just buy a little more at the time you do go to the store and shop

kateanne27

I used to shop on payday too, I found I spent more that way, since I was feeling so good after having no money for a few days, I found if I buy enough just for the next few days, and once in a while stock up on the staples (rice/canned beans, frozen chicken, etc the stuff I can get in bulk) my budget seems to stretch further and theres no deprivation since I dont spend all my money at once.

MinnieInMaine

Anytime the budget is that tight, I plan EVERY meal and make the most out of them. I mean make a menu for the next two weeks (get out my recipe books or search online to keep it interesting), including snacks, breakfast, lunch and dinner and stick to it. I also try to make things in big batches so I can freeze some and save it for the next week - like lasagna. Or do something like cook a chicken and use the remainig meat for 1-2 other meals. Or make chili to have for dinner one night and use the leftovers for sloppy joes. That way there are no surprises and nothing gets wasted.

If you eat fresh fruits and veg, you'll have to make a couple stops at the grocery store to restock but you can plan for that to by setting an extra $40-$60 aside. That gives you plenty for fruits, veg, forgotten ingerdients and/or maybe that one more meal or two that you forgot some ingredients for or even a treat like getting something quick like a rotisserie chicken or a pizza if it's too hot or you're too tired to cook.

Before you go shopping, check all your cupboards and freezer to make sure there's nothing there you forgot about. Then I'd just make due with some super cheap recipes - most casseroles are super cheap to make (pasta, hamburg, can of spaghetti sauce or diced tomatoes - voila!)

kdiamond

I can always find something to eat, and if I can't or nothing appeals to me or my macros, I make a protein shake. I always have protein powder and almond milk in the house, and more often than not some kind of frozen berry. Eggs are another easy and healthy option!

dirtydmvkid

Ramen. Haha! I'm completely kidding! That stuff is horrible for you! I would suggest what just about all the other people have said. Make large batches and freeze leftovers. Tuna is always a safe bet. Maybe try making soups?