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.
• 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!
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 • Save money with a restaurant discount or offer • A helpful option when convenience is needed
Take a Break!
One-Pan Baked Salmon and Veggies
Inspired by BBCGoodFood.com
Ingredients
• 2 handfuls cherry tomatoes • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 lb spring potatoes, halved • 2 tbsp olive oil (divided) • 8 asparagus spears, trimmed and halved
• 2 5-oz salmon fillets • 1 handful fresh basil
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. 2. In an oven-proof dish, combine the potatoes and 1 tbsp olive oil. Roast for 20 minutes. 3. Remove the dish from the oven and add the asparagus. Toss, and bake for 15 more minutes. 4. Remove the dish from the oven and add the cherry tomatoes. Toss. Drizzle with balsamic, then nestle the salmon fillets into the vegetables. Drizzle with the remaining oil, and bake for 10–15 minutes. 5. Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with basil leaves, and serve!
CINCO FOURTH
HAWTHORN LEMONADE LIBRARY MAYPOLE
MEMORIAL NURSES PROM TAURUS
FREEDOM GRADUATE
985-640-6072 • 3
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