You know, temporary unemployment really puts your budget in perspective. Who knew that I’d be paying such close attention to my own advice when it comes to food and finances so soon? After Monday’s pizza pity party, I’ve made it my goal not to spend money on food until the weekend. So all week long, we’re going to be playing my favorite game: pantry roulette!



Start with an on-its-last-legs zuke from the fridge (purloined from your sister’s CSA share), add a kajillion knife cuts (I really need a mandolin) and some fresh-squeezed lemon juice, and set aside.

Meanwhile, cook up some whole wheat pasta and stare longingly at the beautiful label on the newest kind of spaghetti sauce you’re trying from Trader Joe’s.

Add in zucchini “noodles”, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, whatever, and shake it all about.

Garnish with a random cherry tomato you found at the bottom of the produce drawer and some fresh basil from the plant that you still can’t believe hasn’t died on your windowsill. Eat.

Another way to save the cash monies when you’re trying to scrimp and save? Eat dinner at the parentals’ house! 😀

My mom and I made a decadent and delicious meal together for the fam that consisted of creamy mushroom risotto (O.M.G.), chicken, salad, and whole wheat bread for EVOO dippage.


And fruit for dessert! Crazy exotic fruit, that is.


Papaya and “dragon eyes” (related to lychees). Mmm.

The only not-so-economical part of my day? Paying for the mutts to be transformed from their previously shaggy selves into this:





Worth it. 🙂