Escarole is a broad-leafed member of the endive family and can be pricey when not in season. For a super soup at a budget price, use cabbage, kale or spinach in place of the escarole.
To save money, ask the butcher for breast of veal. It costs less than a leg of veal but is very tender and rich. Save the bones to make veal stock to use in place of the chicken broth.
You can pocket some savings by buying canned chopped or whole clams instead of fresh. This classic chowder will turn out just as delicious. Look for economy-size cans at your nearest club warehouse.
Stretch this hearty vegetable stew to feed more people inexpensively. Add 2 cups of cubed potatoes at the end of step 4 and this recipe will make enough to serve an additional 2 to 3 people.
Look for parboiled potatoes in the frozen food section of the grocery store. You can also microwave potatoes quickly by wrapping them in plastic wrap and cooking on HIGH for 5 minutes.
Save money and fat grams by substituting ground turkey breast, seasoned with a pinch each of sage, nutmeg and red pepper flakes, for the turkey sausage called for in this recipe.
Budget-conscious cooks can try medium-grade or pure olive oil as a substitute for the butter called for in this recipe. As a bonus, the olive oil will give these potatoes a wonderful flavor.
Replace the whipping cream with 3/4 cup fat-free chicken broth. You'll save money and at the same time end up with a lighter, more healthful dish-without sacrificing taste.
Plan ahead when you make mashed potatoes. Potato pancakes are a thrifty way to use leftovers. You can even freeze the leftovers and make the pancakes another day.
Since you can't buy less than a whole bunch of cilantro, you'll want to keep the extra fresh for another dish. To do this, place the bunch upright in a glass of water, cover with a plastic bag and refrigerate.
Instead of adding potatoes to your shopping cart every week, buy them in bulk and store in a cool, dark place. If they become soft during storage, soak them in ice water for 2 hours to revive them.
