Bang for your Buck: Simple meals that last all week long

When it comes to saving money, eliminating food waste can stretch your food dollar and help you get the most out of the items you are purchasing. When every dollar counts, so does every food item. Some items can be cooked at the beginning of the week and used for other meals later on, saving time and trips to the store or market.

​Sometimes buying a whole chicken or another large product can seem like a big expense, but if used thoughtfully it can be affordable and efficient. Once cooked, a whole chicken can be used for multiple meals -- it can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge and up to 2-6 months in the freezer! Vegetables can last a long time once they are already cooked too, so making a large batch at the beginning of the week can save time and effort later. Once cooked, most vegetables will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Check out this blog for more freezer and storage tips for your favorite fruits and veggies. To stretch your food items even further, make a large batch of rice or beans at the beginning of the week. This will help transform any mealtime by creating a healthy side dish or addition to any recipe.

Check out the graphics below for a long-lasting and stress-free approach to mealtimes. Find a market or store near you that sells rice and whole chickens, then Double Up on your produce to create your own delicious and waste-free meals. Make sure to ask your farmer or produce specialist what vegetables are on sale and in season to ensure long-lasting freshness and affordability!

​Start the week with a whole baked chicken, veggies, and rice. Then use the leftovers for these awesome meals!

Use the leftover chicken to make enchiladas, and you can use the rice as a side! 
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Tip: You can make vegetarian enchiladas with the leftover vegetables.

Use the leftover chicken to make delicious salads and sandwiches for easy lunches through the week!
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Tip: Leftover grilled vegetables add a great texture to salads and sandwiches.

Throw all the leftovers into your favorite chicken or vegetable stock for a yummy chicken, rice and vegetable medley soup!
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Tip: Add fresh greens from your salad mix for extra nutrients and flavor.