#TastyTuesday – Meal Planning….Again!

Today’s #TastyTuesday is a bit unconventional compared to those in the past. After being gone all weekend with T (more about that later), I have no recipes to feature and I’m actually at the point of needing to meal plan again! My family loves to eat and I love to try new things, but the boys (all three of them) are not always brave, so I have to be careful when meal planning. So, today I thought I’d share with you some tricks for meal planning, how I choose recipes for meal planning, and some of the recipes that I’m going to plan for.

Here are my 3 easy steps for meal planning:

1. Meal Plan Before You Grocery Shop! Having made this mistake in the past, I can tell you that this is where you have to start.  Find your recipes, compare the ingredients to those in your cupboard as to not overspend when shopping (we’re all on a budget, right?)  and to properly use what you have in your pantry!!
2. Don’t Overlook the Classics!  I will be the first to admit that I have a tendancy to overlook the classic recipes.  I love making new recipes so much that I forget to make the things that my guys love!  I have now started meal planning by referencing my recipe box and picking out several recipes first and then fill in the blanks with new recipes. (If I’m only planning 1 week, then I’ll pick about 2 recipes.  If I’m planning 2 weeks or more I will pick 4-5 recipes.)  Traditionally the classic recipes can also utilize several ingredients in your pantry to also help you keep costs low!
3. Create A Plan – once you’ve determined what you will make and you have all the ingredients, then it’s time to create a game plan.  I strongly suggest mixing up and putting together as much as possible at one time.  If you can dedicate a couple hours on a weekend this is best (at least if you work full-time like myself).  Mix up and put together as many meals as possible and stash them away in the freezer for later use!  This will make cooking suppers on a week night even more simple than just straight meal planning!

Now, that I’ve taken my own first two tips into consideration I have selected the following items for the next couple weeks (a few of these are carried over from previous plans)!

Now that I’ve selected my meals and done my grocery shopping, I am going to spend some time tonight putting as many together as possible!  What’s on your plan right now?  Good luck with your meal planning!

Remember, to help the Sheffield Public Library and Comment for a Cause!