Repurpose leftovers to cut food costs
DEAR READERS: One of the easiest ways to cut food costs is simply to repurpose leftovers. While many of us like leftovers better than the original dishes, especially soups, stews and chili, you can make something new and creative out of them. So don’t toss them out; leftovers are good for the family budget.
Simply adding new or fresh ingredients can give food a different taste. Or add a sprinkle or two of herbs, spices or seasonings to perk up leftovers. Adding bouillon, canned soup or stock can enhance a leftover dish as well. Here are some other ideas:
Toss leftover chicken, meat or veggies into warm or cold pasta.
Add cooked and crunchy vegetables to salads.
Melt small amounts of uneaten cheese with canned skim milk and pour the cheesy mixture over noodles or veggies.
DEAR READERS: The garbage disposal is an indispensable part of our kitchens. It gets such daily use and abuse that it can get a buildup of smelly food odors. Here’s how to prevent and contain these smells:
At least once a week, grind any leftover lemon or lime rinds down the disposal. When you use the disposal, let lots of cold water run through it. And take note that the splash guard could be the source of the smell, so wash it with hot, soapy water.
DEAR READERS: Ice cream is a favorite summer treat to help you cool off in the heat. Here are some fun toppings to use to give it an extra-delicious kick:
A Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle ice cream with chopped nuts, crunchy cereal, crushed peppermint candy or bits of chocolate. A Fruit Toppings: Pour strawberries, sliced peaches, raspberries or any seasonal fruit over the ice cream.
A Swirly Toppings: Instead of putting a treat on the ice cream, swirl hot butterscotch, fudge or maple syrup through the ice cream with a knife.
DEAR READERS: Sponges get lots of use all around the house, and even more so during summer. Be aware that household sponges can become filled with bacteria, so clean them often. Bleach is the most effective way of killing germs. Mix 3⁄4 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water. Soak sponges in the mixture for a bit and then rinse well.
DEAR READERS: If you are having guests over for a nice evening and you realize your beloved pooch, the life of any party, has really stinky fur, here’s a quick fix: Sprinkle a healthy amount of baking soda all over the fur. Gently rub it in (but not into eyes or ears), then brush it out. Your dog will smell better until you can bathe it.