Keep an Eye on Holiday Food Budget

Special occasions and holiday meals may mean a big jump in the food bill at the grocery store. Here are some ideas to help you make holiday meals special without breaking the bank:

• Use less. When it comes to holiday meals, many families have a tradition of having much more food than is needed. When planning meals, consider less total food, smaller meat portions, or serve a smaller number of foods.
• Serve healthy foods. Healthier foods give more nutritional value for the food dollar. If you choose pumpkin or squash pie, the cost may be similar to pecan, but is more nutritious. Choose a healthy green salad or a mixed fruit salad, rather than a salad made mostly of gelatin, marshmallows and whipped cream.
• Serve water as well as other beverages. People will drink less of the other beverages served if they drink water to quench their thirst.
• Get your money's worth out of leftovers. Handle lefovers safely (refrigerate or freeze promptly) so they will be used for meals in the future. Freeze the ham bone or turkey carcass and use later for broth or soup.
• The cost of paper products can add to your "grocery" bill. Don't buy fancy paper plates, napkins, cups and decoration items. Get family members to help wash dishes. Use cloth table coverings and napkins.
• Make more meals into potlucks. Your guests, whether family or friends, are usually glad to contribute a favorite dish to a holiday get-together.

Remember, being together with family and friends is more important than spending a fortune on holiday food.

Hidden Calories

Hidden calories can masquerade in food that seems healthy but is filled with fat and calories. No matter where extra calories come from, they add up fast. But knowing what foods contain hidden calories can help you stay on track in maintaining a healthful diet.

Pumpkin, Fall's Golden Treat

Freshly baked pumpkin dishes taste and smell great. It may surprise you to learn that pumpkin is also very healthy. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, iron, potassium, fiber, and vitamin C. Why not bake the following pumpkin treat and invite some friends for coffee and dessert.