LOCAL FARMS

If you are looking for something fun to do this weekend, check out The Eastern Triangle Farm Tour
http://www.carolinafarmstewards.org/etft/

DEALS: Aldi...who knew?

If you have never been to an Aldi, let me start by saying it is a weird experience. It feels like shopping in a foreign country because not only are all the products brands you've never heard of, but there are all these other quirky facets that you don't find in other stores. Like depositing a quarter to release a shopping cart (which you get back when you return it), or the way things are displayed (in boxes on pallets). They also charge you for bags if you don't bring your own. And you bag all of your purchases yourself at a little stand right past the cashiers. And they only take cash, debit or EBT. No credit. All of this adds up to lower prices, sure, but also a kind of surreal experience the first time you go. Nothing is organic. Most things are very processed and pre-packaged. But there are some reasons to go. Pantry items like baking soda, brown sugar, canola oil, etc. are very inexpensive compared to other stores. And for produce that doesn't necessarily need to be purchased organically, you can really get some great deals. I got a cantaloupe for $1.49. Even when the are on special that are usually at least $3 each at Harris Teeter. Avocados were $.65 each. Bananas were $.45/lb! That's just crazy. Is there great selection? No. Would I buy meat there? Not likely. But if you are looking to save some money then it is most definitely worth a look for certain items. And according to their Web site, some states are starting to carry some organic products. Hopefully NC will follow suit (and soon, because $6/gallon organic milk is a budget killer).

STRECHING YOUR DOLLAR: One pound of meat, three meals

Here are three more ideas for making one pound of meat stretch over three meals. I used one pound of boneless skinless chicken breast for the following:
Meal 1: Pesto chicken pizza (dough recipe here)
Meal 2: Spaghetti with goat cheese, figs, chicken and balsamic reduction (recipe to follow in a future post)
Meal 3: Chicken Tortilla soup (recipe here)

RECIPE: Easy quick pickles

INGREDIENTS:
1 T. sugar
1 T. salt
1/2 t. dried dill (or 1 t. fresh dill)
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/3 c. hot water
1/3 c. red wine vinegar
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced

Put first 4 ingredients in a shallow container. Pour hot water over and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add vinegar. Once mixture is no longer warm, add cucumbers. Let sit at room temp for at least 30 minutes. Yum.