1. Prioritize Produce

Here's the trick: focus on what's in season right now. This makes sure the produce you get is super fresh and won't cost you an arm and a leg. It's like a win-win for your taste buds and your wallet! To find these seasonal goodies, keep an eye out for local farmer's markets or pay attention to in-store promotions. These places are like treasure troves for spotting what's in season. Trust us, your meals will taste even better with that fresh, seasonal goodness. Plus, you'll be supporting your local food economy and doing Mother Earth a solid by choosing more sustainable options. So, next time you're planning your grocery trip, remember to prioritize produce, go for what's in season, and enjoy the incredible flavors and savings that come with it. At EveryPlate, our first priority is to get to know our suppliers and ensure the highest quality of all ingredients. 

2. Embrace Plant-Based

Vegetarian meals are the way to go when you want to boost your health without blowing your budget. So no need to fret, you won't be skimping on protein either! Say hello to the protein powerhouses: lentils, chickpeas, and beans. They're super affordable staples that will keep your wallet happy while delivering all those essential nutrients your body needs. Incorporating these gems into your meals isn't just good for your health, it's like a party for your taste buds too! You'll be adding a ton of variety and delicious flavors to your table. Who said eating healthy had to be boring? So, my friend, it's time to diversify your diet, embrace those legumes, and enjoy the abundance of protein without putting a strain on your budget. Let's make health and savings go hand in hand. But, with EveryPlate, choosing meat-based meals costs the same as our plant-based options; there’s no need to embrace plant-based unless that’s your vibe!

3. Bulk Buy

Have you ever thought about the sweet, sweet savings that come with buying in bulk? It's like hitting the budget jackpot! Staples like rice, legumes, and pasta are way cheaper when you go big. Picture this: you stroll down those bulk aisles, loading up your cart with massive quantities of these essentials. Not only are you saving a ton of money, but you're also making a more eco-friendly choice. Buying in bulk reduces all that pesky packaging waste. It's a win-win for your wallet and the planet. Now, here's the key: designate a special place in your kitchen for all those bulk goodies. Get yourself some trusty airtight containers to keep them fresh and tasty for longer. That way, you can enjoy the benefits of bulk buying without worrying about your precious staples going stale. And let me tell you, as time goes by, you'll start to see the savings stacking up. It's like those bulk buys are literally dropping extra money in your pocket (Girl Math!).

4. Meal Prep in Batches

They say "time is money," and that’s especially true in the kitchen. Prepping meals in batches is a total game-changer. By cooking a ton at once, you can reap the benefits of multiple meals while putting your time and energy into cooking just once. Divide your meals into portions and freeze what you won't eat. You can always have a home-cooked meal ready, reducing the temptation of pricier alternatives. And remember, proper containers are key. That’s why, at EveryPlate, we offer Big Batch recipes: Eat twice, cook once.

5. Stick to Familiar Flavors

Think about it: by keeping it consistent and sticking to familiar dishes, you'll probably have most, if not all, of the ingredients already stocked up. We know that there's something magical about those familiar flavors that get your mouth watering. That's why our curated recipes focus on comfort food and familiar flavors. Craving mac and cheese? We got you. Want something that tastes like your auntie’s famous meatloaf? Check us out. So, get ready to embrace the power of familiarity and enjoy those comforting flavors that you know and love. EveryPlate is here to bring you budget-friendly that hit the spot. 

6. Stock Up on Pantry Staples

Building meals around pantry staples such as lentils, black beans, peanut butter, and sweet potatoes can be a game-changer. The cool thing about these staples is that they're super versatile. You can use them in tons of different recipes without breaking a sweat. Think tacos and burritos loaded up with yummy black beans or comforting stews packed with protein-packed lentils. Your taste buds will be doing a happy dance! And here's the best part: by relying on these pantry heroes, you're actually saving a ton of money. We're talking big-time savings! These staples become the backbone of your weekly meal plan. It's like having a reliable squad of ingredients always ready in your kitchen. No last-minute grocery store runs or expensive takeout orders for you.

7. Uncomplicate Your Cooking

Simplicity is a budgeter's best friend. EveryPlate's six-step approach to recipes is ALL about it. Instead of complicated recipes with an insane number of ingredients, we offer straightforward and yummy dishes. The best part: fewer ingredients mean less money spent, and the ease means you're more likely to cook at home than be daunted by the process. 

8. Dine Out Less

We all know how enticing it can be to indulge in restaurants and takeout, but let's be real, the price difference is no joke. Dining out regularly can really put a strain on your budget. But here's the awesome thing about cooking at home: it's like a whole different level of satisfaction! There's this joy that comes with creating something delicious and savoring it right in the comfort of your own kitchen. And you know what? Besides the obvious money-saving perks, there's also a huge psychological boost to cooking at home. You get to know exactly what goes into your food, and that brings a sense of peace. No hidden surprises or mysterious ingredients. Now, we're not saying you should completely give up treating yourself to an occasional meal out. We all deserve a little break from cooking sometimes. But let's make home-cooked meals the default.

9. Keep an Eye on Sales

Being budget-conscious doesn't mean you have to skip on quality. In fact, paying attention to local coupons and sales can help you find super high-quality ingredients for next to nothing. Whether it's discounted produce nearing its sell-by date (you can freeze it if you’re not eating it tonight!) or a deal on your favorite grains, sales can slash your grocery expenses. Having a list and storage plan will help you capitalize on deals without succumbing to impulse buys.

10. Delicious Delivery

We know the feeling of wandering the grocery store aisles when you’d rather be recouping after endless meetings (that could have been an email). It's like a breeding ground for last-minute craving-induced purchases, am I right? Picture this instead: you get to choose exactly what you need for your meals and have everything delivered right to your doorstep. It's like grocery shopping made super easy, efficient, and less expensive. No more surprises or unnecessary extras sneaking their way into your cart. EveryPlate is killing it in this department. We've got your back with a curated selection of top-notch ingredients delivered straight to you. Plus, starting at just $2.99 / meal with our exclusive discount, you're getting convenience and good prices all wrapped into one tasty package.

11. Maintain a Meal Calendar

Planning is half the battle when it comes to managing your food budget. Setting up a meal calendar will change the game—you can see what you’ll need and when, reducing both waste and last-minute, expensive purchases. With a clear roadmap of your week's meals, you can shop more effectively and make the most of promotions and bulk buys. Using digital tools or even a simple kitchen whiteboard can make this process fun and budget-conscious.

12. Make Use of Coupons

We know, couponing may seem a bit old-fashioned to some, but trust: this strategy is back and better than ever. Here's the deal: many grocery chains are hopping on the couponing train and offering exclusive discounts to their members through apps or loyalty programs. So, keep your eyes peeled for these amazing deals and use them to plan your shopping. Take a little time to browse through online forums or coupon websites to uncover those current offers. With just a bit of diligence, you'll be amazed at how these discounts can add up to some seriously significant savings. It's like a treasure hunt! By being a smart couponer, you can stretch that hard-earned cash and make your grocery budget go the extra mile. Who doesn't want some extra dough in their pocket?

13. Stay Hydrated With Water

Water is simply the best. Drinking sufficient water boosts metabolism, aids digestion, and promotes skin health. Financially, opting for water over sugary sodas or designer coffees results in savings over time—and you’ll probably feel a whole lot better. Investing in a reusable water bottle can motivate you to choose this calorie-free, cost-free beverage. Say goodbye to disposable water bottles while you’re at it.