Is Ordering Takeout Wrecking Your Finances?
Whether you need a break, a window of time to socialize, or want to enjoy the thrill of a good deal, there are definitely ways to meet these needs in a budget-friendly way. Try doing the following:
Statistically speaking, as a U.S. adult, it’s likely that you eat at restaurants five times a week or more, but even if it’s cheap fast food, it might be doing more damage to your personal finances than you think. Data from the U.S. Department of Labor shows that the average American dines out 5.9 times per week and spends about $3,500 on eating out every year. To put it into another perspective, if you spent $15 per meal five times a week, that’s about $300 over four weeks. It’s worth asking yourself if spending hundreds of dollars every four weeks on cafes and restaurants is getting in the way of your financial goals. If not, great! But if you’re worried, then it’s time to ask yourself what you’re craving. Many U.S. adults buy restaurant food for a number of reasons, including: • A treat to get you through your commute or workday • Quality time with family, friends, or coworkers • Outsourced meal-planning
• Put together a treat at home that you adore. There are a lot of ways to brew high-quality coffee at home the way you love it — and at a price you adore even more. • Meet family, friends, and coworkers at a park or for a potluck. • Set up weekly or monthly meal staples. Think now and you won’t have to later. It’s time to go recipe hunting! • Consider if the total bill amount will fit in your budget, even if you have coupons or other discounts. • Always have fast, lazy meal options when the need strikes. There are even healthy options in the frozen food aisles these days! You can also re-prioritize your spending, such as choosing to spend on restaurants while out with friends but not ordering food while at home alone. Even though we all love supporting our local restaurants, don’t forget to look out for your own future, too!
• Save money with a restaurant discount or offer • A helpful option when convenience is needed
Inspiration Corner
Mother’s Day Brunch Rainbow Frittata Inspired by EatingWell.com
Ingredients
Directions
• Nonstick cooking spray • 1/4 cup sweet potato, diced • 1/4 cup yellow pepper, diced • 1/4 cup broccoli, chopped • 8 eggs • Basil, thyme, salt, and pepper, to taste • 1/2 avocado, pitted,
1. Preheat oven to 350 F and coat a cast-iron skillet with nonstick cooking spray. 2. In the skillet over medium heat, cook sweet potatoes, yellow pepper, and broccoli until soft. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. 4. Pour egg mixture into skillet with vegetables. Don’t stir but instead use a spatula to lift the edges of the egg mixture until it is evenly distributed. 5. Transfer mixture to oven. Bake for 5 minutes or until the dish sets. 6. Top with avocado and tomatoes. Drizzle Sriracha on top (if desired).
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
peeled, and thinly sliced • Cherry tomatoes, halved • Sriracha hot sauce (optional)
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