Bean sprouts are very perishable. They will be fresher, as well as less expensive, if you buy them from an Asian market that stocks bean sprouts in bulk and receives a fresh supply daily. bell-peppers ...

This dinner can be budget-priced if you prepare your own spaghetti sauce. Oil, garlic, canned tomatoes and herbs are all you need. Make a double batch and freeze half for later use. bell-peppers ...

Even imitiation lobster can really pinch your budget. For a more affordable lasagna, use only shrimp. For greatest savings, stock up when shrimp are on sale and store in your freezer for up to 3 months. bell ...

Bargain warehouses and price clubs that sell items in bulk are great budget stretchers. Check them out for savings on everything from spaghetti to canned tomatoes to dried seasonings. cheese ...

If wine is not a staple in your pantry, you can use a less expensive ingredient for flavor. The tang of freshly squeezed lemon juice, about 1 tablespoon, is an alternative to the white wine. bacon ...

Homemade gnocchi are thrifty. Mix the pulp from 2 pounds cooked potatoes, 11/3 cups flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Roll dough into ropes. Cut into 3/4-inch pieces. Boil until gnocchi float, about 2 minutes. chee ...

Pappardelle are wide, ribbon-like noodles. If your grocer does not carry this pasta, or if you would prefer a less expensive substitute, use broken pieces of lasagna noodles instead. broccoli ...

The price of pasta varies considerably depending upon the brand. There is no need to buy the expensive imported brand. Any variety made with semolina flour will work just as well. condiments ...

Rotini are corkscrew-shaped pasta. If they are unavailable or priced higher than other pasta shapes, you can substitute bow tie pasta or even elbow macaroni with excellent and delicious results. bacon ...

Rich ricotta cheese can really add to the total cost of this lasagna. To save both money and calories, substitute an equal amount of small-curd cottage cheese, either full fat or reduced fat. cheese ...

Sun-dried tomatoes are least expensive when purchased dry instead of packed in oil. Keep them tightly sealed in a container with an airtight lid to keep them fresh for up to 12 months. cheese ...

If white wine adds too much to the grocery bill, substitute chicken broth, or simply omit the wine. Or, if you keep dry vermouth or cooking sherry on hand, either will work perfectly. cheese ...