In these trying economic times, we are all looking to save money whatever ways we can.  One way to save money is what we are using in our kitchen.  Did you know that potatoes are one of the least expensive items in the produce department, andbone of the most nutritious? In most places, you can still get potatoes for less than 25 cents a spud. With only 110 calories in a medium potato and being naturally fat-free, sodium-free and cholesterol-free, the tater can’t be beat.

The US Potato Board has come up with a website to help us all out called Mom’s Dinner Helper.  You can find great recipes, dinnertime tip, and Nutrition information. There are even places for you to share your own recipes, comment, and rate recipes to win prizes.  They even have a blog called Tater Talk where everything from parenting to potatoes is discussed.

If you are looking for a way to save some money in the kitchen, incorporating more potatoes in your diet is a good way.

You have to get the Mama says, “No More Frozen Pizza!” cookbook. This is the coolest cookbook I have ever owned. This cookbook has 24 nutritious recipes that are designed for new cooks! Now, the first thing that makes this cookbook unique is that it is in the shape of an order out pizza box. It looks like a pizza. When you open the box, you will be for a surprise. I know I was! Each recipe is on paper that is shaped like a pizza (circle). You can easily go in there and grab the recipe you want. The first thing you see is a picture of a pizza. When you flip it over, there is a nice little forward about the book. Plus, there is also some advice: “All we ask is that you wipe off the recipe cards before you store them, do the dishes within one week’s time, and send a “thank you” not to whomever sent you this recipe box. Oh, and call your mother once in awhile”.
Now, each recipe card is pretty unique. There is a picture one side of the card, and all of the recipes look absolutely delicious. When you flip the card over, it tells you what the recipe is, how long it takes to make, and how many it will feed. They also have an ingredient list, how to make list (preparation), and equipment. I have to giggle that under equipment they include things like a can opener, large knife, and large frying pan with lid.

There are several awesome recipes we will trying this next week are Dad’s Special Meat Loaf, Italian Roasted Potatoes, and Southwest Chicken Soup. These easy to make recipes are perfect for new cooks (and not so new cooks) with limited time and limited budgets.