Cheap meal planning ideas
On Wall Street, I built businesses by cutting waste and reinvesting savings. Households can do the same with food. With the average American spending $3,639/year dining out (BLS, 2023), meal planning is one of the fastest ways to save while eating better.
1. Shop with a List
- Plan meals before shopping to avoid impulse buys.
- Cuts grocery bills by 25–30%.
2. Cook in Batches
- Make chili, pasta, or stir-fry in bulk.
- Freeze portions for later.
- ROI: saves time and money.
3. Use Cheap Protein Sources
- Beans, lentils, eggs, and chicken thighs.
- Cost: 30–50% less than beef or seafood.
4. Reuse Ingredients Across Meals
- Roast a chicken → sandwiches, soups, stir-fry.
- Maximizes every dollar spent.
5. Embrace Meatless Days
- Going vegetarian just 1–2 days a week saves $500+/year.
6. Prep Snacks Ahead
- Cut veggies, boil eggs, or portion nuts.
- Prevents pricey $5–$10 impulse snack buys.
Final Word
On Wall Street, discipline turned limited capital into compounding growth. Meal planning is no different: organize, buy smart, and reduce waste. The return? Lower bills, healthier meals, and more cash left to invest in your future.
