Planning for meals can be all about making life easier; but meal planning can also be about making your budget work for you. Leanne Brown's Good and Cheap is a cookbook for those who are looking to plan meals on a tight budget but still want to eat well. Her recipes are written for those who are on SNAP budgets of $4 per day but work for everyone. We liked her clear directions, appetizing photos, and helpful tips to eat well. A meal plan for a budget but also for those who like to eat.
Toast 8 Ways, Filipino Chicken Adobo, and Creamy Zucchini Fettuccine
A piece of toast can be a snack, a quick breakfast, or in this case a whole meal. This recipe is all about making a decadent piece of toast on the stovetop, then topping it with all sorts of things. Think roasted vegetables and cheese, black eyed peas and greens, smashed lemony peas, or browned onions and cheese. Simple, a little luxe, yet still within your budget meal plan.
Tips:
- Don’t skimp on the butter. That’s what makes this dinner so delicious.
- We think you could riff on any of the toppings. Vegetable leftovers, bits of roast from the night before, are all great ideas.
- If you have it, a better loaf from the bakery is nice here.
Filipino Chicken Adobo: Good and Cheap
Chicken adobo is a little tangy, all sorts of savory, and just the right amount of salty for a satisfying dinner. Marinate your chicken in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, then braise it in the same sauce. The chicken is tender with a little kick from the garlic and vinegar. White rice soaks up all the delicious sauce- you’ll be looking for every last grain.
Tips:
- We didn’t try the variation of coconut milk but think that would be delicious.
- Kate didn’t have potatoes and just added more carrots. Worked really well.
- Chicken breast would be too dry here but chicken drumsticks would work.
- Make sure to really pat dry your chicken before you brown it. Otherwise you’ll have a spattering mess of oil.
Creamy Zucchini Fettuccine: Good and Cheap
Zucchini time is nearly over, but in case you have a few left, this pasta will come to the rescue. Lots of garlic, a couple zucchini, lots of cheese, and a hint of cream come together for a delicious late summer dinner.
Tips:
- If you have just a little too much zucchini, don’t be shy about adding in extra.
- Save a little pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Download Good and Cheap or buy a copy online. (Affiliate link- thank you!)
From the Smorgasbord:
Meal Plan Addict: Meal Planning Tips
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