What’s for Dinner?

Does this question create a feeling of excitement or anxiety?

Schedules are packed and it’s a challenge to regularly feed our family healthy & delicious meals.

With the cost of groceries on the rise, there is certainly a benefit to keeping an eye on your weekly spend and making the most of your on-hand items before they expire while reducing waste.

Spring is a great time to give your pantry and refrigerator an overhaul.

Where to Start

A first step to building a better panty is a good thorough cleaning.

Whether you like to take every single item out or work shelf by shelf take the time to clean.

Get rid of the dust and grime and sticky spots. Sort and categorize, putting like items together.

Baking, breakfast items, condiments, you get the point.

Rotate product and discard any expired items.  

Get to the area way at the back that you don’t even have access to anymore.

Are you making the most of your pantry real estate? Create order, don’t allow items to become hidden.

Rearrange larger items at the back so they can be seen. Create a use first zone or drawer.

Next, do the same with your fridge and freezer.  Clean, rotate and toss.

Inventory

Take stock. 

Whether you program it in your phone, find the perfect printable on Pinterest or prefer an old fashioned handwritten version ~ create a list to work from.

Be mindful of your inventory prior to making your grocery shopping lists.

Make this new habit a priority.

A clear picture of what you have on hand and what you need will help you steer clear of impulse buys.

As you are taking stock create a meal plan for a couple of nights. Add missing ingredients to your list.

Be Inspired

Change your habits and create new positive meal rituals.

Create a compilation of pantry recipes.

Stock up on versatile canned goods like tomatoes, lentils and beans.

Try a meatless night once a week, why not try “Meatless Mondays”?

Drink smart. Choose water more often ~ It’s healthier and budget friendly.

Food Waste

It’s easy to see why fruit and vegetables among the most wasted food items.

Consider buying frozen fruit and vegetables or freezing items for soups and smoothies before they become unusable.

Brush up on storage tools and tips on how to keep items like produce longer.

Did you know celery packed in foil will last longer? Some produce items keep longer when stored separately. 

Items like tomatoes, potatoes and onions should not be kept in the refrigerator but in a cool dry place.

Enjoy

Sure, schedules may be hectic but don’t underestimate the value and comfort of a good family meal.

Life is easier with a well stocked kitchen.

With a little planning you can keep the budget in line. Have the pantry and refrigerator tidy and organized for preparing amazing meals your family will love.

 

See what Pamela, a past client had to say about Neat Spaces helping a loved one downsize in this Thank You…  

 “Everything went great with the downsizing – she was very impressed that they even looked after salting her walkway and giving her a hug at the end put her right at ease – Thank You”

For downsizing, moving and organizing services in the Greater Toronto Area contact us today!