![]() If you are buying packs of cut herbs (basil, parsley, coriander, mint), stop them spoiling quickly by trimming the stems and placing the herbs upright in a glass with 2-3cm of water. It’s easy to grow your own herbs - you just need a sunny window sill. There’s no denying fresh basil can transform tomatoes or that tarragon and chicken are a blissful match. They are also perfect for bulking up dishes so you can spend less on meat and fish: chickpeas are great in chicken traybakes, cannellini beans in summery fish stews and canned lentils can be added to beef mince before making burgers.įresh herbs can really elevate dishes, adding a flash of freshness, colour and vibrancy. I zhuzh them up before adding to salads by rinsing and draining, then frying them in olive oil with crushed garlic, salt and a squeeze of lemon juice. They may not have the wow factor on their own but are some of the most wholesome and inexpensive ingredients you can buy. Buy all-butter puff if you can, as the flavour is better.ĭon’t overlook canned legumes, beans and pulses. Turn them into cheese straws for a party snack or a savoury tart topped with pesto, roasted vegetables and goat’s cheese: a perfect impromptu lunch for guests.Īlternatively, go sweet with summer fruits and sweetened ricotta, or even use it as the base for the blueberry, lemon curd and mascarpone tart recipe opposite. They are inexpensive, versatile and will happily sit in the freezer until needed. Pre-rolled puff pastry sheets will get you out of a tight spot for last-minute entertaining. I also check my cupboards for lingering bottles of spirits, too, to turn into a sprightly cocktail to serve on arrival. Those breadcrumbs you froze a few months ago? Turn them into a crunchy topping for a mozzarella and tomato salad. This allows you to come up with a budget-friendly menu, have time to shop around for the best prices, and will give you a chance to think about what is already stored in your freezer and cupboards. ![]() Impromptu gatherings may be fun but a well-organised meal is the best way to keep finances in check. Planning ahead is the best way to keep bills down. Try it next time you’re seasoning a dish. It’s more that the acidity will help bring out and sharpen flavours, and add a lovely brightness. This doesn’t mean the food will end up with a citrussy tang (you’re only adding a few drops, after all). In Europe we tend to consider salt and black pepper as the standard seasoning, but salt and a squeeze of lemon juice is often far more effective for adding depth of flavour. Tips for entertaining on a budgetĪlways have fresh lemons to hand. When combined with a shop-bought tart case (a true saviour for last-minute entertaining) and a creamy filling (mascarpone works well, or whipped cream or ice cream), you have an effortless dessert that tastes sublime and looks great. Why? Because they are such good value all year round. Last month the ONS (Office for National Statistics) reported that frozen berries had been added to the nation’s shopping basket for the first time. We’re all feeling the pinch as supermarket prices spiral, but it’s important not to let this take the pleasure out of cooking and entertaining. Smoked, it is great in salads and when tinned it’s a store-cupboard standby. It’s fabulous fresh and cooked on the barbecue. If you prefer to use less chicken, bulk out the dish by adding a can of chickpeas or butter beans.īudget-friendly mackerel is a delicious fish, packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to eat less of them, just be discerning about the cuts and varieties you choose.Ĭhicken legs are far better value than thighs, and brilliant for feeding a crowd in summer traybakes with seasonal vegetables and vibrant herbs and spices. Meat, chicken and fish tend to hike food bills significantly. And it is still possible to create a gorgeous, flavour-packed menu without spending a huge amount. Spring is a wonderful time of year.Īs the days get longer and lighter and more British-grown fruit and veg hits the shelves, I look forward to gathering family and friends around my table.
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