15 Genius Recipes for Thanksgiving Leftovers

by Susie ForesmanNovember 22, 2022

10 lbs. of turkey look a lot more appetizing when you’ve got Thanksgiving leftover recipes to try

If you’re looking at a mountain of leftovers without any idea of what to do, we’ve got you covered. Transform all that food with our Thanksgiving leftover recipes. We’re talking Thanksgiving leftover casseroles, recipes with mashed potato leftovers, and everything in between. And if you are just totally over it, check out our favorite frozen foods from Trader Joe’s that take almost no time to prepare.

Turkey Tetrazzini

leftover thanksgiving recipes — Greens & Chocolate

Transform your leftover turkey into the ultimate comfort food inspired by Greens & Chocolate. Egg noodles, turkey, and mushrooms are bathed in a deliciously cheesy sauce, then it’s all topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Pancakes

Turkey Day leftovers aren’t just for meat-eaters! Take inspiration from Connoisseurs Veg to whip up this vegetarian-friendly dish with your leftover mashed potatoes. We’re drooling over that perfectly crispy crust.

Buffalo Turkey Grilled Cheese

turkey grilled cheese is a good thanksgiving leftover recipe — Whitney Bond

When in doubt, add buffalo sauce! This simple idea from Whitney Bond is a great way to refresh those leftovers. Plus, you can sneak some veggies in for crunch.

Turkey Nachos

These nachos from Bless Her Heart Y’all are the perfect accompaniment for those post-Thanksgiving football games or movie nights. With plenty of melty cheese and veggies, they’re also a nice change of pace from typical holiday food.

Cheesy Cranberry, Bacon and Turkey Sliders

These drool-worthy sliders from Simple Seasonal can knock out three types of leftovers at once: dinner rolls, cranberry sauce, and turkey. If you’ve got guests sticking around on Black Friday and beyond, this is the perfect way to feed a crowd.

Thanksgiving Dinner Casserole

Thanksgiving casserole is a good Thanksgiving leftover recipe — Make-Ahead Meal Mom

When you’re so sick of turkey you can’t look at it anymore, that’s when you should prep this genius casserole from Make-Ahead Meal Mom. Once it’s assembled, just throw it in the freezer, and it’s ready to go once you’re ready for a mini Thanksgiving feast in a month or two.

Cranberry Turkey Mozzarella Pull-Apart Bread

This pull-apart bread from Whitney Bond is the stuff of snacking dreams. Sourdough bread is filled with mozzarella cheese, turkey, and cranberry sauce, then baked until it’s melty and delicious. Drooling yet?

Thanksgiving Leftover Bagel Sandwiches

For a hearty breakfast or lunch, pair your leftover turkey with pesto and cranberries to make this drool-worthy bagel sandwich from Glitter and Bubbles. Topped off with cream cheese and butter lettuce, it’s sure to be a winning combination.

Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

Warm up with a big bowl of turkey and wild rice soup. This recipe from The Skinny Fork is hearty but healthy, not to mention the perfect weeknight dinner for picky kids.

White Turkey Chili

Turkey chili is a good thanksgiving leftover reicpe — Juanita's Cocina

Try out a twist on your classic chili with this recipe from Juanita's Cocina. It's easy to adjust to your family's tastes, making it spicier or milder as needed.

Orange Cranberry Muffins

We're always left with half a bag of fresh cranberries after Thanksgiving, and now we've finally found the perfect use for them: these tasty muffins from Girl in the Little Red Kitchen.

Turkey and Stuffing Turnovers

These turnovers look pretty impressive (read: hard to make), but they'll actually come together quickly with the help of frozen puff pastry sheets. Fill the pastry with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy, and you'll have a mini feast ready in no time. Check out the recipe at A Family Feast.

Turkey Pot Pie

When in doubt, make a pie! A pot pie, that is. Cathleen over at A Taste of Madness came up with a delicious solution to those turkey leftovers. All it takes is some prepared pie crusts, and butter, and you'll have a completely different meal in 60 minutes.

Bacon Provolone Pita Pockets

Take your leftover sandwiches to the next level with Toni from Boulder Locavore. You'll love her combo of turkey, cranberry sauce, and her secret weapon: bacon!

Turkey Tetrazzini

When you still don't know how to use up the extra turkey from Thanksgiving dinner, Sara from Bitz N Giggles has a great idea to transform those leftovers into something totally new. Her recipe for turkey tetrazzini is just the ticket, and it couldn't be simpler.

15 Easy Japanese Recipes Kids Will Love

by Susie ForesmanSeptember 2, 2022

These recipes are easy to make at home

Japanese food tends to be pretty kid-friendly, thanks to its subtle yet rich flavors that aren’t too spicy. And with dishes like homemade sushi, ramen noodles, and gyoza, these Japanese food recipes are just as fun to make as they are to eat.

Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings)

Gyoza is a traditional Japanese food recipe. — Everyday Washoku

Here’s a fun cooking project for the whole family. Everyday Washoku has photos and instructions on everything you’ll need to make gorgeous gyoza, pan-fried in the Japanese style.

Japanese Milk Bread

Also known as Hokkaido milk bread, this Japanese specialty is a soft and springy bread that has a slight sweetness. It’s the perfect weekend project since you’ll need to let it rise twice. Get the recipe from Simmer + Sauce.

Vegetable Noodle Soup

This Japanese food recipe for noodle soup is kid-friendly — The Six O’Clock Scramble

This delicious take on ramen packs plenty of veggies into a flavorful broth. Since it uses a normal pack of instant ramen (minus the flavor packet), it cooks up super fast. To get this Japanese food recipe, click here.

Tamagoyaki (Pan Fried Rolled Egg)

Tamagoyaki is a Japanese food recipe. — Japanese Cooking 101

Tamagoyaki is a Japanese omelet made by rolling together thin layers of seasoned egg in a frying pan. It might take some mastery—it cooks up a little bit like a crepe but without the flipping. Get the recipe from Japanese Cooking 101.

Vegan Sushi

If you’ve never made sushi before, then this step-by-step guide on vegan sushi from Kindly Coconut is the perfect place to start. You’ll get the rundown on what supplies you’ll need and learn how to make tasty sushi with butternut squash, kimchi, pickled veggies, and more.

Japanese Curry

A Japanese food recipe for curry. — Pickled Plum

A guaranteed kid-favorite Japanese food recipe, this curry is comfort food at its finest. It’s not spicy (perfect for little ones!) and has a nice sweet and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with a big scoop of rice. Visit Pickled Plum to see the recipe and a guide to the best store-bought curry mixes if you're short on time.

Vegan Tofu Nuggets

Switch things up from your standard chicken nuggets by making this dish from Chef Ja Cooks. Tofu is a popular staple in Japan, and kids are sure to love it when it’s fried up nugget style.

Gyudon (Beef Rice Bowl)

Gyudon is a popular quick meal in Japan, made from thinly sliced beef, a sweet and salty sauce, and fluffy scrambled eggs. This version from The Floured Camera is just the thing for a busy weeknight meal that’s still hearty and healthy.

Omurice (Omelette Rice)

Omurice is an example of yoshoku—Western food that has been reinvented in a Japanese style. Rice is fried with ketchup, chicken, and veggies and then wrapped in an omelet. The kids are sure to love this one, courtesy of Sudachi Recipes.

Chicken Katsu Sandwich

This chicken katsu sandwich from Something About Sandwiches is every kid’s dream lunch—a super crispy chicken katsu is paired with tonkatsu (Japanese barbecue sauce) and shredded cabbage on fluffy white bread.

Andagi (Okinawan Fried Donuts)

Andagi, aka Okinawan fried donuts, are a simple and delicious treat that your whole crew will love. This version from Keeping It Relle is a Hawaiian-inspired take on the recipe, with baking powder added for additional fluffiness and milk and vanilla for an extra rich flavor.

Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs)

You might find meatballs like these at a yakitori restaurant, but they’re pretty easy to make at home, too. This version from Wandercooks uses seasoned ground chicken as a base and they’re basted with a sweet and savory sauce.

Ginger Soy Glazed Edamame

For a fun appetizer or snack, try this take on edamame from K33 Kitchen. The sweet, sticky, salty glaze is a fun twist on the typical salted version, and a sprinkling of sesame seeds makes it feel extra fancy.

Kitsune Udon

Udon is a great Japanese food recipe for kids. — iStock

This dish is a comfort food favorite, made with thick and chewy udon noodles and rich broth. The best part is that you can customize your recipe according to what the kids like. Get the details from Pacific Potluck.

Chicken Karaage (Fried Chicken)

This Japanese fried chicken is extra crispy—just the way we like it! It’s also marinated in a soy-based mixture for extra flavor and juiciness. Get the recipe from All Ways Delicious.

Dinner Is Done: Find the Best Meal Delivery Service for You

by Christine LaiAugust 18, 2022

Dinner can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be with the best meal delivery service options available for your family.

“What’s for dinner?” is our favorite question—said no parent ever—especially not when it’s 5 p.m. and you don’t have an answer to that question. With our round up of meal and meal delivery services, you’ll say goodbye to grocery shopping, meal planning, prep and best of all, all that cleanup.

HelloFresh

The goal of HelloFresh is to bring the fun of cooking back into people’s lives by doing all the planning, portioning and shopping for in-season, sustainably-sourced, healthy and flavorful ingredients. HelloFresh prides itself on its delicious recipes with quick cook times; all your chopping, zesting and sautéeing will take less than 30 minutes.

Cost: Meals $10/serving.
Online: hellofresh.com

EveryPlate

Feeding your family delicious food that doesn't break the bank is just about everyone's goals so we are on board with this value meal brand. Of all the samples we've tried, their Cajun Chicken Sausage Penne was a top favorite—we're talking lick-the-plate-clean good!

Cost: starts at $6/meal + shipping.
Online: everyplate.com

Hungryroot

Offering both groceries and recipes to go with, your family can easily plan for meals, snacks and everything in between! Most recipes are prepped and on the dinner table within 10-15 minutes (try the creamy miso salmon) with the option for roast-and-ready meals that are conveniently popped in the oven. Fill your fridge with produce, protein and delicious snacks from Hungryroot and never be hungry again.

Cost: Starts at $70/delivery with free shipping.
Online: hungryroot.com

Territory

Fresh meals from local chefs straight to your door equals taking your dinners to the next level. Easily meet your health and wellness goals with gluten, refined sugar and dairy-free recipes while subscribing to a plan to filter your preferences and choose for delivery even for once a week. We also loved that every packaging item was either recyclable or compostable which is important to us plus the ability to donate meals to our local community means you can feel great about your meal delivery service.

Cost: starts at $11/meal for the smaller “boost” size or $14/meal for standard size.
Online: territoryfoods.com

Martha Stewart & Marley Spoon

best meal delivery services — Marley Spoon

Have 30 minutes and can follow six easy, precise steps? That is all it takes to allow your inner Martha to shine with this cook-at-home food delivery service! With 29 menu choices every week and meal tags such as family-friendly, under-30 minutes, gluten-free and other categories, there is something for everyone. Bonus: the website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for kids who want to help.

Cost: Plans start at $10/portion + $10 shipping.
Online: marleyspoon.com

Gobble

One pan. 15 minutes. That is the only requirement before dinner can be on your table! Gobble shops, chops and delivers gourmet three-step recipes for one-pan cooking with zero prep required. In fact, their main selling point is that every recipe takes 15 mins to cook, which is something we can all get on board with. Choose between Classic vs Lean and Clean recipes and personalize it as you see fit. Having been voted by Parents magazine as the #1 Meal Kit delivery service means that picky eaters are sure to find something they like.

Cost: Prices start at $12/serving (dinner for 4).
Online: gobble.com

Freshly

With a food philosophy centered on less sugar, less processed and more nutrients, the menu features fresh, chef-cooked comfort food meals with smart ingredient swaps.

Cost: starts at $10/meal for 4-12 meals per week.
Online: Freshly.com

Green Chef

With plans like Keto + Paleo, Balanced Living and Plant-Powered, healthy eating at home is the name of the game with Green Chef. Organic produce and eggs delivered to you with easy recipes means eating well and healthy go hand in hand. Set up your deliveries to come weekly or less frequently if you prefer.

Cost: Meals start at $13/serving with $10 shipping.
Online: greenchef.com

Blue Apron

Blue Apron has been part of the meal delivery game for a long time and their expertise shows. We love that the meals typically take 40 minutes or less and include kid-friendly ingredients like baked chicken and pasta while exposing kids to different flavors such as curry and chile-lime. With super easy-to-follow recipes, you can definitely get the kids involved in the cooking process.

Cost: Meals cost $12/serving with $10 shipping.
Online: blueapron.com

Home Chef

Home Chef meal kits offer fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes delivered weekly. Curate a box to personalize the cooking experience you want: 30 vs 15 min meal prep, grill ready, oven ready, or even special occasions in which a premium meal ups the ante. Most recipes include a "Customize It" option to accommodate any dietary needs or kid-friendly preferences. Our taste testers enjoyed the Cheesy Steak and Chipotle Ranch sandwiches and were licking their fingers at the end of the meal while the French Onion Chicken was also delectable and essentially French Onion soup on a plate.

Cost: Meals start at $7/serving.
Online: homechef.com

Dinnerly

If your goal is to get a wholesome, easy meal on the table for your family, then Dinnerly is the meal delivery option for you. Each week Dinnerly customers choose from over a dozen options which change each week. Each meal has only five prep steps and takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, perfect for rushed weeknight dinners. Not interested in getting your box this week? No problem! You can skip any time.

Cost: Meals start at $5/person.
Online: dinnerly.com

Veestro

With 100% organic, vegan and gluten-free chef-prepared entrees, soups and juices there are no animal products of any kind here, ever! Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick and no one will miss the meat. Meeting your family’s dietary needs has never been easier or more delicious.

Cost: Starting at $11 for 30 meals.
Online: veestro.com

Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot brings you plant-forward meals that are both good for you and good for the planet. Choose from Quick & Easy, High-Protein, Gluten-Free or Chef’s Choice dinners and customize your choices to your liking. All meals are meat-free, easy to prepare with the option to add on breakfast, lunch and snack items to get you through the week. Skip or cancel any time.

Cost: Plans start at $13/serving.
Online: purplecarrot.com

Sun Basket

Sun Basket’s meal kits come with organic produce with paleo, gluten-free, vegetarian and family menu selections. Their "super speedy" meals go from box to table in less than 20 minutes, "one pot" meals keep the dishes to a minimum and Fresh & Ready meals are pre-cooked, pre-packaged to go from oven/microwave to dinner table in six minutes. WIN.

Parents will love how Sun Basket encourages kids to participate in the cooking process (which has been shown to create more adventurous eaters). Each recipe includes a "Kids Can" section with suggestions of how kids can contribute to the meal prep by juicing a lemon, timing the orzo or strip the mint leaves.

Cost: Starts at $10/serving.
Online: sunbasket.com

One Potato

There's nothing fussy here—organic, non-GMO ingredients come pre-chopped, pre-measured and ready to go from box to table in less than 30 minutes. Kid-sized portions (about half of an adult-sized portion) and pricing is available by indicating how many children are in the family. Bonus: free, gourmet and organic cookie dough is included in every box!

Cost: Plans start at $14/serving.
Online: onepotato.com

Thistle

If you are looking to up your family's health quotient this year (and who isn't?!) then Thistle is the meal delivery service for you. They offer fully-prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as juices, snacks, wellness shots and more. Every menu item is gluten and dairy free with vegan and non-vegan options.

Cost: Fully-customizable packages start at $42/week or $12/meal.
Online: thistle.com

Methodology

As a pre-prepared food delivery company, Methodology aims to nourish your body with foods that help it perform at it's tip-top level. With a menu designed by food lovers for food lovers, your taste buds will thank you.

Cost: Starts at $18/meal.
Online: gomethodology.com

Good Eggs

Flexibility and options rule at Good Eggs as you can choose a single meal kits We love their family-friendly meal kits like the One Pot Pasta e Fagioli. Simply heat and toss to get a comforting meal in minutes (add a side salad and take-and-bake garlic loaf for a complete meal).

Cost: Meals start at $18 for 3 servings.
Online: goodeggs.com

Pocket Chefs

For a meal service of a different style, enlist the help of a professional chef in your own home! Pocket Chefs enables families to hire affordable and experienced culinary professionals to assist with everyday cooking needs. This service enlists vetted, culinary professionals who have served many years as private chefs, caterers or restaurant chefs. All of their chefs pass a background check and are certified through SafeServ for cleanliness standards. Pocket Chefs understands the needs of your family and aims to deliver delicious and affordable meals in the comfort of your home. You can simply create an account, pick your preferred package and schedule when you'd like your Pocket Chef to arrive and start cooking!

The chef will call you beforehand to go over your meal plan and grocery list, taking into consideration any food restrictions or allergies. You purchase the groceries according to a list provided by your chef and then the chef shows up at the agreed-upon time to cook the meals for you.

Cost: Meal packages start at $189.
Online: pocketchefs.com

—Taylor Clifton, Christine Lai, Kate Loweth, Erika Milvy & Erin Feher

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

Meal Delivery Services in Dallas for Busy Families

by Kate LowethAugust 12, 2022

If the idea of coming up with a recipe and finding time to hit up the grocery store is too much to bear, this list of amazing meal delivery services in Dallas for families is the easiest way to get dinner on the table when you’ve got a busy plate (pun intended!) and exactly no time to plan. From heat-and-eat options for when you just can’t cook another meal, to meal kits that will have the kids cooking with you, there’s something on this list that will satisfy every family. Get ready to get cooking!

Front Porch Pantry

Since 2016, Front Porch Pantry has been feeding Texas families cost-effective, gourmet meals with no prep involved. They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner delivered to your door when you want them, no subscription required. We love the honey lemon dijon chicken with rice pilaf and the steakhouse dinner with pup fries for family-friendly options. Not sure what to order? Try a "Taste of Front Porch Pantry" that includes 6 meals for $84/week.

Cost: Entrees cost $9+.

Online: frontporchpantry.com

Snap Kitchen

Based in Austin with stores across Texas and in Philadelphia, Snap Kitchen offers fresh and healthy, chef-designed meals that are ready to heat and heat, no meal prep or cooking required. All Snap Kitchen meals are personally designed by a team of registered dietitians and chefs, with curated lifestyle plans including low carb, keto-friendly, Whole30, paleo, high protein, vegetarian, balance and best-sellers. Committed to only using ingredients that promote optimal health and reduce the risk of disease, Snap Kitchen meals are made fresh daily and do not contain any gluten, antibiotics, added hormones, or artificial preservatives, flavors or colors.

Snap Kitchen stores across Texas are open and convenient curbside pickup and delivery will still be available for contactless shopping. Stock up with fresh, healthy, no-work-required meals for the week by ordering online or via the iOS app.

Cost: The six-meal plan costs $14/meal and the 12-meal plan is $11/meal. Save $10 on an order of $50 via this link.

Online: snapkitchen.com

Sun Basket

Sun Basket provides meal kit customers with organic produce and clean ingredients with paleo, gluten-free, vegetarian and family menu selections. Consumers can also upgrade to premium meats like grass-fed filet and jumbo shrimp. Broaden your culinary horizons with family-friendly meals like chicken tagine and Taiwanese noodle soup. You can even select "super speedy" meals which can go from box to table in less than 20 minutes or "one pot" meals which keep the dishes to a minimum. Hooray!

Sun Basket recently released their Fresh & Ready meals and families will want to try them out for sure. Fresh & Ready is an ideal weeknight meal solution—the meals feature a complete dinner that is pre-cooked, packaged and can go straight into the oven or microwave, ready in 6 minutes or less, no additional prep required.

Cost: $10/serving

Online: Sunbasket.com

Territory Foods

Chef-made, nutritionist-designed meal delivery service Territory Foods delivers meals free of gluten and refined sugars to families. With over 35 options that are updated weekly, you choose what you want, the items are cooked to order and delivered twice a week to keep your fridge stocked. Pause or cancel at any time. Try the chicken stir fry or BBQ pork with mashed potatoes as easy kid-friendly options.

Cost: Meals start at $11/meal.

Online: territoryfoods.com

HelloFresh

Cost: Meals $10/serving. Delivery is $10.

Online: hellofresh.com

Martha Stewart & Marley Spoon

This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The partnership gives Marley Spoon access to Martha's archive of over 18,000 tried-and-true recipes to feature in their meal kits. They promise quality purveyors offering grass-fed beef, Berkshire pork, American-caught shrimp and artisanal cheeses. The menu features 22 choices every week and the website tags meals as family-friendly, under-30 minutes, gluten-free and other categories.

Cost: Plans start at $10/portion + $10 shipping

Online: marleyspoon.com

Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot brings you plant-forward meals that are good for you and good for the planet. Choose from Quick & Easy, High-Protein, Gluten-Free or Chef’s Choice dinners and customize your choices to your liking. All meals are meat-free and easy to prepare. You can add on breakfast, lunch and snack items to get you through the week. Skip or cancel any time.

Cost: Plans start at $13/serving.

Online: purplecarrot.com

Gobble

Cost: Prices start at $15/serving. Dinner for two (3 nights a week) starts at $90. The first week of shipping is free.

Online: gobble.com

Freshly

Freshly is a weekly subscription service delivering fresh (not frozen), chef-cooked meals that can be heated and served in three minutes. Unlike meal kits, all you need is a microwave, fork and plate (optional!) to get a satisfying lunch or dinner on the table. Think “nutritionist meets personal chef” vs. TV dinner when it comes to quality and flavor. With a food philosophy centered on less sugar, less processed and more nutrients, the menu features better-for-you versions of comfort foods with smart ingredient swaps.

Cost: Customers can order 4-12 meals a week starting at $9/meal.

Online: Freshly.com

Yumble

This meal delivery service is focused on kids. Carefully sourced fruits and veggies, and perfectly balanced—lunches, dinners and snacks from Yumble are nutritionist approved and kid approved, too! Choose your kids meals for the week and they'll be delivered free to your doorstep. Each box comes with new activities for kids, making mealtime a breeze for you and a joy for them.

Cost: 4 meals a week starts at $10.

Online: yumblekids.com

Blue Apron

Blue Apron has been part of the meal delivery game for a long time and their expertise shows. Choose among two-serving, four-serving, wellness and vegetarian menus to pick the options that are right for you. We love that the meals typically take 40 minutes or less and include kid-friendly ingredients like baked chicken and pasta while exposing kids to different flavors like curry and chile-lime. With super easy-to-follow recipes, you can definitely get the kids involved in the cooking process.

Cost: Meals cost $12/serving with $10 shipping.

Online: blueapron.com

Green Chef

Cost: Meals start at $13/serving and $10 shipping.

Online: greenchef.com

Home Chef

Cost: Meals start at $7/serving.

Online: homechef.com

Farmbox Direct

Farmbox Direct offers various size boxes packed with seasonal, farm-fresh fresh fruits and vegetables to your door. You select the shipment size and customize your box, and check your doorstep for easy monthly deliveries.

Cost: Starts at $41/box.

Online: farmboxdirect.com

Dinnerly

If your goal is to get a wholesome, easy meal on the table for your family, then Dinnerly is the meal delivery option for you. Each week Dinnerly customers choose from over a dozen options which change each week. The choices are totally kid-friendly. Each meal has only five prep steps and takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, perfect for rushed weeknight dinners. Not interested in getting your box this week? No problem! You can skip any time.

Cost: Meals start at $5/person.

Online: dinnerly.com

Veestro

How about 100% plant-based, organic, non-GMO, chef-prepared entrees, soups, and juices that just show up at your front door whenever you want them to? Then look no further than this healthy bunch (bonus: they deliver nationally, too).

There are no, zero, zilch animal products of any kind, here, ever! Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick every time for your kiddos and no one will miss the meat. Veestro food is available a la carte, in full-on Meal Packs, and they also carry a surprisingly delicious weight loss menu plan. As with most vegetarian cuisine: most meals have nuts in them so be careful with a nut allergy, but all meals are completely dairy-free and don't contain other allergens.

Cost: Starting at $13 for 10 meals.

Online: veestro.com

—Taylor Clifton, Kate Loweth

Dinner Is Served! Find the Best Meal Delivery Service Near You

by Taylor CliftonAugust 11, 2022

The end-of-summer checklist is long, but we found the perfect hack to shorten that to-do list! Meal kits. We rounded up a host of meal kit delivery services that cut your prep work so you have more time for things like back-to-school shopping. There are 14 amazingly delicious and outrageously healthy services that now ship to the Washington, DC area. Convenience…it’s what’s for dinner!

1. Yumble

This meal delivery service is focused on kids. Carefully sourced fruits and veggies, and perfectly balanced—lunches, dinners and snacks from Yumble are nutritionist approved and kid approved, too! Choose your kids meals for the week and they'll be delivered free to your doorstep. The Bowl of Yays Pasta with veggie marinara and the Mighty Meatballs and Veggie Chili are crowd pleasers for sure. Each box comes with new activities for kids, making mealtime a breeze for you and a joy for them.

Cost: $10/meal for 4 meals.

Online: yumblekids.com

2. Green Chef

Green eggs and ham? Not quite. Think: Green as in USDA-certified organic, GMO-free ingredients sent to your doorstep direct from local farmers. This meal kit delivery service is for the family that makes a conscious effort to eat clean dinners. Order the family meal plan, which sends two wholesome dinners for a family of 4 and the cooking is done in 30-45 min. Examples of the scrumptious meals you can be serving up include Hawaiian Pork Fried Rice, Steak & Smashed Potatoes, and Crispy Dijon Chicken.

Cost: $13/serving, $10 shipping.
Online: greenchef.com

3. Martha Stewart & Marley Spoon

This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The menu features 22 choices every week and the website tags meals as family-friendly, under-30 minutes, gluten-free and other categories. Favorites include: chicken fajita bowl, bacon-wrapped skillet meatloaf and lemon-brown butter salmon. The website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for careless cooks and kids who want to help.

Cost: Plans start at $10/portion + $10 shipping.

Online: marleyspoon.com

Related: The Best Pizza Pies in the DMV

4. Gobble

Say goodbye to grocery shopping, meal planning and prep, and all that cleanup! Gobble shops, chops and delivers gourmet three-step recipes for one-pan cooking with zero prep required. How about picky eaters? Try Pan-Seared Sirloin Steak with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes & Béarnaise Sauce or Crispy Chicken Sandwich & Napa Cabbage Slaw with Caraway Vinaigrette. What have you got to lose when it's just a one-pan cleanup?

Cost: Prices start at $15/serving for dinner for two.

Online: gobble.com

5. Blue Apron

Cost: Meals cost $12/serving with $10 shipping.

Online: blueapron.com

6. Freshly

With a food philosophy centered on less sugar, less processed and more nutrients, the menu features better-for-you versions of comfort foods with smart ingredient swaps. For example, Chicken Parm is coated in almond flour vs. bread crumbs and topped with marinara sauce sweetened with honey instead of refined sugars; Mac and Cheese is made with brown rice pasta and cheesy sauce blended with a purée of cauliflower and butternut squash; and Turkey Meatballs are packed with mushrooms and served over zoodles for a lower-carb alternative to pasta.

Cost: Customers can order 4-12 meals for $9/meal.

Online: Freshly.com

7. Home Chef

Home Chef meal kits offer fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes delivered weekly. With a variety 19 different recipes that rotate on a weekly basis, most recipes include a "Customize It" option to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences. Skip a week any time you'd like, the meals are convenient and kid-friendly. The 15-minute meal kits include options like Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Carrots. Or, opt for more sophisticated meals from the culinary collection like Steak and Garlic Thyme Butter with balsamic Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan Twists.

Cost: Meals start at $7/serving.

Online: homechef.com

8. HelloFresh

Cost: Meals are $10/serving. Delivery is $10.

Online: hellofresh.com

9. Dinnerly

If your goal is to get a wholesome, easy meal on the table for your family, then Dinnerly is the meal delivery option for you. Each week Dinnerly customers choose from over a dozen options which change each week. The choices are totally kid-friendly with options like sweet and sour Swedish meatballs, turkey burgers and enchiladas. Each meal has only five prep steps and takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, perfect for rushed weeknight dinners. Not interested in getting your box this week? No problem! You can skip any time.

Cost: Meals start at $6/person. $10 shipping.

Online: dinnerly.com

10. Green Chef

Healthy eating at home is the name of the game with Green Chef. Choose from three plans: Keto + Paleo, Balanced Living and Plant-Powered. Set up your deliveries to come weekly or less frequently if you prefer. Menus change every week and you'll enjoy options like Steak & Cheddar Melts, Salmon with Creamy Chimichurri, and Creamy Baked Penne Pasta.

Cost: Meals start at $13/serving and $10 shipping.

Online: greenchef.com

11. Veestro

Cost: Starting at $13/meal for 10 meals.

Online: veestro.com

12. Purple Carrot

Cost: Plans start at $13/serving.

Online: purplecarrot.com

13. Sun Basket

Cost: $10/serving.

Online: Sunbasket.com

14. Territory Foods

Chef-made, nutritionist-designed meal delivery service Territory Foods delivers meals free of gluten and refined sugars to Dallas families. With over 35 options that are updated weekly, you choose what you want, the items are cooked to order and delivered twice a week to keep your fridge stocked. Pause or cancel at any time. Try the chicken stir fry or BBQ pork with mashed potatoes as easy kid-friendly options.

They also recently started offering Territory Grocery. Options: Produce Box featuring a 15+ lb. mix of garden veggies, root veggies, fruit, leafy greens and herbs; or Produce & Pantry Box including all of the above plus 2-3 lbs. of grains and legumes.

Cost: Meals start at $11/meal.

Online: territoryfoods.com

—Taylor Clifton, Meghan Yudes Meyers & Ayren Jackson-Cannady

17 Atlanta Meal Delivery Services That Simplify Family Dinner

by Taylor CliftonAugust 3, 2022

With the school year and work in full swing, now is the time when you might look to shortcuts for your family meal plan. With these local (and some not-so-local) meal kit delivery services, you can add another feather to your already full cap and whip up something delicious faster than you can load everyone in the car for take-out. Keep reading for our favorite meal delivery services in Atlanta, and let someone else do the cooking (or at least the shopping and prep) for a change.

a grandparent and granddaughter stir up dinner in a bowl — iStock

Instead of Flowers

This Atlanta meal delivery service offers ready-made dinners for diners who prefer to leave the prep work to someone else. With meal delivery from Monday to Friday between 3 and 6 p.m., Instead of Flowers guarantees you'll have a hot meal on the table before the last kids gets home from practice. Choose between complete meals or a la carte options, and be sure to check out the special kids' menu, as well.

Insider tip: When you gift a meal from Instead of Flowers, they contact your recipient, take their preferred order and delivery date, and even include an enclosure card letting them know that the dinner came from you. Sounds like an easy way gift for new parents to us.

Cost: Complete meals start at $52

Online: insteadofflowers.com

families cook together over two saucepans in the kitchen — Garnish & Gather

Garnish & Gather

With a weekly menu with multiple options—as well as three to four à la carte kits—and a delivery zone both ITP and OTP on Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays (plus multiple pick up locations), Garnish & Gather is as big on offering their customers options as they are on offering quality local ingredients. They work with Atlanta's best chefs for meal kit recipes, recently featuring menus from the chefs of Miller Union, Banshee, Revival and Tiny Lou's.

Insider tip: Garnish & Gather has "kid approved" menu items, like lemon caper chicken, that take 20 minutes or less to prepare. They'll also deliver local groceries from Georgia farmers and artisans to your doorstep.

Cost: $32-$58/meal

Online: garnishandgather.com

A mother and son chop vegetables together on a kitchen island — iStock

The Dinner Shoppe

Owner Carol Rice's goal has always been to help families of all sizes get supper on the table because she knows what it means to be a busy parent of younger kids. Expect family friendly meals that are totally customizable for your family (you add the desired amount of spice to all entrees from the included bag yourself). If you want something left out or put on the side, or low sodium, or vegetarian or gluten free, or want to switch meats, all you have to do is make a note of it during check out. Menus include 16-20 choices that change monthly, and delivery includes all of metro Atlanta.

Insider tip: We love that Carol used to have her children's friends over to taste test upcoming menu items. Clearly these meals are crafted with the family table in mind.

Cost: starting at $9/serving

Online: thedinnershoppe.com

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Bag'd Atlanta

Bag'd Atlanta is your source for local vegetables and fruits delivered to your door, also featuring a variety of add-ons and health and wellness products. While this isn't a prepared kid per se, the robust local fruits and veggies have a week's worth of produce to inspire any aspiring chef. Serving Intown Atlanta, and offering free delivery to Decatur and Avondale Estates for orders over $25 (and a small delivery fee elsewhere), Bag'd lets you get dinner in the bag.

Insider tip: Check the website for availability of dairy, eggs, and meat, all sourced from Georgia farmers and can be delivered to your door.

Cost: starting at $24

Online: bagd-atl.com

Martha Stweart stands in the kitchen next to her meal delivery services kit

Martha & Marley Spoon

This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The menu features over 45 choices every week, and the website tags meals as Family-Friendly, Under 30 minutes, Vegetarian or Vegan and other categories. Our favorites include: chicken fajita bowl, bacon-wrapped skillet meatloaf and lemon-brown butter salmon. The website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for careless cooks and kids who want to help.

Cost: Plans start at $9/portion + $10 shipping

Online: marleyspoon.com

Hello Fresh

Cost: starting at $10/serving + $10/box for delivery

Online: hellofresh.com

Dinnerly

If your goal is to get a wholesome, easy meal on the table for your family, then Dinnerly is the meal delivery option for you. Each week Dinnerly customers choose from over a dozen options which change each week. The choices are totally kid-friendly with options like sweet and sour Swedish meatballs, turkey burgers and enchiladas. Each meal has only five prep steps and takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, perfect for rushed weeknight dinners. Not interested in getting your box this week? No problem! You can skip any time.

Cost: starting at $5/person

Online: dinnerly.com

Green Chef

Cost: starting at $12/serving + $10 for shipping

Online: greenchef.com

a plant based meal is spread out on a table after being prepped from a meal delivery service — Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot brings you plant-forward meals that are good for you and good for the planet. Choose from Quick & Easy, High-Protein, Gluten-Free or Chef’s Choice dinners and customize your choices to your liking. All meals are meat-free and easy to prepare, or you can select from prepared meals to be delivered to your door. You can add on breakfast, lunch and snack items to get you through the week. Skip or cancel any time.

Good to know: We’re crushing on Purple Carrot’s Plantry ingredients like cauliflower snacking crackers and chocolate-covered oat bites that kids can grab and eat.

Cost: starting at $11/serving

Online: purplecarrot.com

Veestro

How about 100% plant-based, organic, non-GMO, chef-prepared entrees, soups and juices that just show up at your front door whenever you want them to? Then look no further than this healthy bunch (bonus: they deliver nationally, too). There are no, zero, zilch animal products of any kind, here, ever. Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick every time for your kiddos, and no one will miss the meat. Veestro food is available a la carte, in full-on Meal Packs, and they also carry a surprisingly delicious weight loss menu plan.

Good to know: As with most vegetarian cuisine: most meals have nuts in them so be careful with a nut allergy, but all meals are completely dairy-free and don't contain other allergens.

Cost: starting at $11/meal

Online: veestro.com

Sun Basket

Cost: $12/serving

Online: sunbasket.com

Territory Foods

They also recently started offering Territory Grocery. Options: Produce Box ($60) featuring a 15+ lb. mix of garden veggies, root veggies, fruit, leafy greens and herbs; or Produce & Pantry Box ($70) including all of the above plus 2-3 lbs. of grains and legumes.

Cost: starting at $11/meal

Online: territoryfoods.com

One Potato

When it comes to feeding families, One Potato has got you covered. Co-founder Catherine McCord's best selling Weelicious recipes are the basis of the One Potato meals. There's nothing fussy here—the organic, non-GMO ingredients come pre-chopped, pre-measured and ready to get from box to table in no time. Each recipe will be ready in less than 30 minutes, which makes weeknight meals a cinch. Bonus: there's cookie dough included in every box!

One Potato understands that not every family has two adults and two kids so they offer plans for two to six servings per meal. By indicating how many children are in your family, you'll receive kid-sized portions (about half of an adult-sized portion) for them. Choose two or three meals to be delivered per week, or skip that week if you'll be out of town.

Cost: starting at $14/serving

Online: onepotato.com

Blue Apron

Cost: starting at $8/serving + $10 for shipping

Online: blueapron.com

Freshly

Cost: $9-$12/meal + $10-$12 for shipping

Online: Freshly.com

Gobble

While this meal kit delivery service isn't exclusive to Atlanta, it only preps and delivers gourmet three-step recipes (fist bump!). Their one-pan cooking with zero prep required means you cut down on the clean-up time, too. Plus, menu items are marked as "Certified" Gobble Kid Friendly, making it easy to pick the most foolproof meal for your little foodies.

Good to know: Gobble sends meal kits with the intent of 15 minutes or less of prep time, so you can spend more time hanging with your little gobblers—instead of stirring away over a hot stove.

Cost: starting at $12/serving

Online: gobble.com

Home Chef

Home Chef meal kits offer fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes delivered weekly. With a variety of more than 20 different recipes that rotate on a weekly basis, most recipes include a "Customize It" option to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences. Skip a week any time you'd like, the meals are convenient and kid-friendly. The 15-minute meal kits include options like Mini Pesto Pork Pizzas. Or, opt for more sophisticated meals from the culinary collection like Crispy Chicken with Lemon Pistachio Butter.

Cost: starting at $7/serving

Online: homechef.com

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

—Taylor Clifton & Shelley Massey with Kate Loweth

How to Support Local Asian American-Owned Businesses & Non Profits

by Hannah JudgeMay 2, 2022

Portland, Oregon: a place where families and communities blend together and show support for one another. Asian American and Pacific Islander [AAPI] communities have been a huge component of the diversity that makes Portland so unique! And when we band together to support local AAPI businesses that serve local families, we are not only broadening our kids’ knowledge and understanding of culture, we are strengthening community bonds and developing relationships that make Portland the city it is. From awesome small businesses and restaurants to arts and culture opportunities for your crew, we’ve rounded up AAPI-owned businesses and non-profits you can patronize and donate to and make a difference. Read on to find out more.

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Hanoi Kitchen

This Vietnamese-owned spot has been a staple in the northeast neighborhood of Portland. Built on family-traded recipes, Hanoi Kitchen has been supplying Portland with delicious cuisine for years! Switch up a weekday meal or have a fun family dinner with their steamed rice crepes, their southern-style noodle soup, or treat you and the kiddos to a tasty vermicelli bowl!

Where: 7925 NE Glisan St., Portland OR
Phone: (503) 252 – 1300
Online: hanoikitchenpdx.com

Highlight Auto Body and Repair

Take the pressure off finding a decent place to get your car fixed with Highlight Auto Body and Repair! They are incredibly efficient and budget-friendly because they know how important having a working car is to getting around. Their effective customer communication, family-oriented candor, and passion for automobiles make Highlight the best way to get your car up to snuff and support a local AAPI business in the process!

Where: 11109 SE Division St., Portland OR
Online: highlight-auto-body-and-repair-portland

Portland Taiko

Ever wanted to learn the drums? How about Japanese taiko drumming? If you’re not sure what that is, now is a perfect time to find out! Built by Ann Ishimaru and Zachary Semke, this taiko performance group offers a range of learning options from company workshops to individual lessons. Plus, you know you’re getting grade-A instruction, as they routinely perform all over the Pacific Northwest! Head online today to check out their upcoming classes or schedule a community event with them.
Where: 3728 SE 34th Ave., Portland OR
Phone: (503) 288-2456
Online: portlandtaiko.org

Coco’s Donuts

Ever had one? They’re addicting. Treat you and the kiddos to a sweet snack after school or on a weekend afternoon with Coco’s Mochi Oreo or Mochi Matcha flavored donuts, or keep it simple with their glazed raised or chocolate frosted with sprinkles! No matter your preference, Coco’s has a treat for you. They’ve been serving up these warm, tasty treats to the Portland community for years, so don’t wait! Head to one of their multiple locations today to see what all the fuss is about!

Where: 5 Locations: Downtown Portland, Broadway, Williams, Brooklyn, Sunnywise, Portland State University
Online: cocodonuts.com

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Spend a weekend afternoon appreciating the beauty of the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Placed aptly in Portland’s China town, this green space is rich with native Chinese plants, flowers, and trees, as well as a Koi pond! Amble along the paths through their lush gardens for a meditative, calming experience and then cap the day with a cup of tea from their teahouse!
Where: 239 NW Everett St., Portland OR
Cost: Adults (Ages 14-61) $14, Seniors & Students $13, Youth (6-18) $11, Children 5 & under Free
Phone: (503) 228-8131
Online: lansugarden.org

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Portland China Town Museum

This museum is nearly brand new to the city of Portland – opening its doors in December of 2018, the Portland Chinatown Museum [PCM] seeks to honor Portland’s rich Asian history. The museum constantly rotates exhibitions and has a permanent gallery feature titled Beyond the Gate: A Tale of Portland’s HIstoric Chinatowns. Pack the family up and head to PCM today to really understand the importance of Portland’s AAPI community today!

Where: 127 NW Third Ave., Portland OR
Cost: Adults: $8, Seniors: $6, Students: $5, Children 12& Under: Free
Phone: (503) 224-0008
Online: portlandchinatownmuseum.org

Japanese American Museum of Oregon

Located in the northwest Portland neighorhood, the Japanese American Museum of Oregon [JAMO] strives to educate the public about Japanese emigrants and their descendants, also known as the Nikkei. The idea for JAMO was built from the Issei Appreciation project, to preserve the stories of the Oregon Japanese immigrants, and the first iteration of the museum was established in 1990 at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Now, they’ve just opened their northwest location [May of 2021] for all to explore, learn, and appreciate!

Where: 411 NW Flanders St., Portland OR
Phone: (503) 224-1458
Online: jamo.org

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Donation Opportunities

While going out to eat and exploring gardens and museums is a great way to engage with Portland’s AAPI community, it isn’t the only way to have a supportive impact. There are several organizations that take donations that would go directly to the preservation of community history and the advancement of community business and activism. Below are some of the organizations you can donate to today as you do your part to support Portland’s great Asian American and Pacific Islander community!

Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon [APANO]
Founded in 1996, APANO dedicates itself to community development through cultural work, leadership development and support, political advocacy, and community organization!

Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce of Oregon & Southwest Washing [APACC]
APACC gathers representatives of all lines of Asian-owned businesses to ensure economic development, growth, and success among the Portland AAPI community.

The Japanese American Citizen League [JACL]
Founded in 1929, JACL has worked for nearly a hundred years to support Portland’s Japanese American community through civil rights activism to build infrastructure that supports our AAPI neighbors.

The Korean American Coalition [KAC]
KAC has several areas of impact for Portland’s AAPI community: they are engaged in civic and legislative advocacy, community service, cultural education through Korean artforms, and youth leadership!

Northwest Chinese Alliance [NCA]
Built on the practice of preserving cultural art forms, the NCA strives to showcase Chinese American history through the performing arts. They seek to build community and engage individuals through dance performances and events like the Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade!

Oregon Chinese Coalition [OCC]
The OCC is a tight-knit organization that seeks to strengthen the Portland Chinese community through civil, political, religious, and cultural preservation.

Oregon Korea Fund [OKF]
Founded in 1995, the OKF seeks to provide support for Korean heritage, communities, businesses, and families through the support of donations and grant work!

—Hannah Judge

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16 Ways to Shop Smart & Save Money on Groceries

by Kaitlyn KirbyApril 8, 2022

With rising food prices, there’s no doubt you’ve been trying to think of ways to shop smart when you head to the grocery store. If you’re determined to lower your bottom line, you’ll be glad to know there are plenty of ways to keep your wallet just as full as your cart—from using coupons to downloading grocery savings apps and more. Keep scrolling to find our savvy list of hacks on how to shop smart the next time you’re cruising the aisles.

Shop online and do drive-thru pick-up. You might balk at the fee some grocery stores charge to bring the groceries to your car but consider the money you'll save by not wandering the aisles with kids who'll no doubt beg for every snack in sight?

Plan your meals.
To avoid over-buying on your next grocery run, plan your meals. Write out the days of the week and under each heading, choose what you’ll be eating and what ingredients you need so you can streamline (and save on!) your trip. Recovering Spender author and financial life coach Lauren Greutman puts things into perspective. "If we spend $25 on pizza every week, we're forking out an extra $1300 a year on takeout!"

Shop in stores where you know the layout. Quick trips to the grocery store can turn into a free-for-all if you don't know where everything is, especially when you are tired or in a hurry.

Stay away from pre-chopped veggies.
You may be tempted to reach for those containers of ready-chopped onions, celery, and carrots, but they also come with a higher price tag. According to consumerreports.org, you'll be paying almost double for that pre-prepped status. Instead, shop smart and opt for buying the entire vegetable and set aside time for chopping.

Start using the Flashfood App.
This app has partnered with grocery stores all over the country in hopes of eliminating food waste, plus, users can save up to $108 a month. How does it work? Download the app, and then search for a grocery location near you. Then you can choose and purchase discounted food items—you know, the items that have "just" reached their best buy date, and pick them up at designated Flashfood Zones in the store.

shop smart and go to the store late — Pexels

Shop during the quiet hours.
When the store is crowded with busy, tired folks and crying babies, all you want to do is get your shopping done. There's little chance of you taking the time to price compare or search for bargains. Instead, hit the aisles when fewer customers are around, and you'll feel less stressed to get a move on. Want to know what hours to avoid? The Time Use Institute states that the busiest hours of the day are 4 p.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays, and from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m or so on the weekends.

Go meatless.
If you’re shopping on a budget, consider adding Meatless Monday (or Tuesday or Wednesday) to your weekly meal rotation. You’ll save on one of the most expensive staples on your grocery list and you’re guaranteed to get in all of your greens! A study published in the Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition found that vegetarians save up to $750 a year by going meatless.

Become a coupon clipper.
We’re not saying you need to audition for the next season of Extreme Couponing, but before you head to the store, do a quick online search for any coupons that will apply to the items on your grocery list. You’ll also want to check if your grocery store has its app. Many stores like Target and Kroger have their app with additional digital coupons you can use.

Download cashback apps.
As you’re looking for coupons on the items on your grocery list, take a few minutes to download cashback apps like Ibotta and Checkout 51. These apps allow you to earn a percentage or dollar amount back on certain items after you upload a photo of your receipt. And while they may be small amounts at first (25 cents back on any item, for instance), they add up quickly!

lady buying generic labels to shop smart — iStock

Buy generic.
You probably have a few brands that you’ve used for years, but when it comes to everyday items like salt or flour, you can make your wallet a little happier by buying generic.

Look up or down.
Did you know that supermarkets often stock the priciest items at eye level? When you’re looking to shop smart and find the best deals, remind yourself to look on those top and bottom shelves.

Buy in bulk.
If cheese is on your list, spring for a block. Grated cheddar is almost always more expensive. And, when a family staple, like chicken noodle soup, goes on sale 10 for $10, go ahead and load up! If you don't have room in the pantry, ask a store associate if you can still get the discounted price.

Don’t shop while hungry.
Heading to the store on an empty stomach? Do your budget a favor and eat first. Grocery shopping while hungry can lead you to buy much more than you need and make impulse purchases. Like Paco Underhill, author of Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping says, "more than 60% of what we buy wasn’t on our list."

shop smart and send the frugal person to the store — Pixaby

Send the most economic partner to the store. If one partner is more likely to use coupons, look for bargains or attempt to spend the absolute minimum amount possible, consider having that partner tackle the big shopping trips (quick weeknight trips don't count—those are anyone's game!).

Buy frozen vegetables and fruit.
Depending on what’s in season, you can save a few bucks by buying your vegetables in the freezer section. Certain grocery stores like Trader Joe’s often have frozen veggies and fruit for under $2 so you can stock up!

Find bargains online.
In the days of Amazon Fresh and other online retailers, you can easily find food at bargain prices—you just have to know where to look. consumereports.org suggests buying the following non-perishable items online to save your hard-earned dollars: snack bars, coffee, baby food, pasta and more.

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11 Ways to Get Dinner on the Table Faster

by Allison SutcliffeMarch 21, 2022

One kid needs homework help. The other has practice in less than an hour and oh, dinner? Let’s just say it’s not going to make itself. With these quick dinner ideas and tips, you’ve got a fighting chance of making it through the after-school shuffle and feeding the family without breaking a sweat. So keep cool and read on!

Prep ahead.

Chop, measure and mix ingredients on the front end to save time on the back end. Yep, it’s that simple. Whether you gather and prep ingredients on the weekend before the rush of the week begins or pull double duty—prepping dinner while you pack kids’ lunches in the morning—you’ll save time by having everything ready to go in the evening.

Embrace pre-made ingredients.

Trust us, learning to love pre-made products will set you free. Using items like rotisserie chicken (simply shred it and throw it on top of a bagged salad for a filling main course) or jarred pasta sauce (you can customize it with fresh veggies and spices) is a busy parent’s best-kept secret for easy, healthy dinners. Also, don’t think about shying away from frozen foods when you’re short on time. You’re welcome.

Keep your pantry and freezer stocked.

If you've got your pantry filled with staple items, it's a lot easier to throw something together in a flash. Think spaghetti noodles and marinara sauce, loaded baked potatoes or even chicken noodle soup. You'll be amazed at what you can create with the basics. Here are our favorite recipes that use items you should have on hand most of the time.

Enlist the kids to help.

It’s true. Many hands do make light work. So put the family to the task as you work to get dinner on the table. Want to know just what they can handle? Read up on age-appropriate kitchen tasks to get started.

Serve breakfast for dinner.

It doesn’t get easier (or faster) than a big egg scramble packed with veggies, served alongside a protein (did someone say bacon?) and fruit to make dinner complete. Fancy it up with pancakes or waffles, and you’ll still be done in record time. Why didn’t we think of this sooner? Find our favorite recipes here.

Farm it out.

If you haven’t tried a meal delivery service, now’s the time. Each meal includes everything you need to get food on the table—stat! Use them in a pinch, or make this easy option part of your weekly meal plan agenda.

Stock up on make-ahead meals.

Spend your spare weekend hours prepping dinners for the week. With these kid-friendly recipes, meals are made ahead of time, frozen and then heated up in no time when they’re needed.

Keep ingredients simple.

Fewer ingredients mean less prep time, which means your family eats in less time too. The best part? Our favorite three-ingredient meals boast bold flavors and creative twists on the familiar you and the kids will love.

Pull out the pots.

That Instant Pot you bought on Amazon during Prime Days? The slow cooker you’ve got tucked away in a cupboard somewhere? Put them to work so you can focus on something else. Throw together one of these slow cooker recipes in the morning, and dinner will be waiting for you when you get home. Or rock some of our Instapot faves in the dinner rush to save time.

Learn to love leftovers.

Capitalize on all that work you do making dinner the rest of the week when you repurpose leftover dinner items on a busy night. Heat them and set them out so everyone can choose their favorites. Or get creative by transforming bits and pieces into a whole new dish. Kudos to you, chef!

Know your recipes.

When it comes to quick dinners, having a deep recipe bench is the name of the game, and filling it with recipes that clock in around 15 minutes, prep-to-table, is how you win. Put these heavy-hitters in your lineup for easy weeknight cooking.

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Science Says Chicken Soup Really Is the Best Medicine

by Shahrzad WarkentinJanuary 20, 2022

While there is no actual cure for the common cold, there’s plenty you can do to ease your symptoms. Before you reach for that cold medicine, however, the best remedy might simply be soup—specifically, chicken noodle soup.

One dietitian explains exactly how chicken soup can help fight colds: “Studies have shown that a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup may help clear nasal congestion and ease cold symptoms,” said Sandy Allonen, a clinical dietitian at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. “It’s all about the ingredients.”

Besides the obvious nutritional benefits of carrots, celery, and even onions and chicken, chicken noodle soup has some other healthy tricks up its sleeve. As Allonen explains, the warm broth can soothe a sore throat and provide hydration, the steam can help clear your nose, the salt can stimulate your tastebuds (encouraging you to eat more even when food tastes bland), and even the chicken can help.

“Chicken is high in tryptophan, which helps your body produce serotonin that can enhance your mood and give you the feeling of ‘comfort’ that helps make chicken noodle soup a true comfort food,” Allonen said. With all the bugs going around these days, it’s time to put the soup on.

10 lbs. of turkey look a lot more appetizing when you’ve got Thanksgiving leftover recipes to try

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Thanksgiving Leftover Bagel Sandwiches

Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

White Turkey Chili

Orange Cranberry Muffins

Turkey and Stuffing Turnovers

Turkey Pot Pie

Bacon Provolone Pita Pockets

Turkey Tetrazzini

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Gyudon (Beef Rice Bowl)

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HelloFresh

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Gobble

Freshly

Green Chef

Blue Apron

Home Chef

Dinnerly

Veestro

Purple Carrot

Sun Basket

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1. Yumble

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4. Gobble

5. Blue Apron

6. Freshly

7. Home Chef

8. HelloFresh

9. Dinnerly

10. Green Chef