It's hard to beat roast chicken for a budget meal since it will stretch into two or three meals. Start by roasting chicken with vegetables and potatoes; night two can be chicken tacos, and then use whatever is left over to make a hearty soup.

Curried Quinoa is a delicious and healthy meal or side dish perfect for cold days. I adapted the recipe from the Moosewoods Cookbook.

I usually buy the 4lb bag of quinoa grain at Costco and it lasts me for a couple months, you can also add other veggies or spices to quinoa and get creative.

- In a saucepan, heat oil and saute 1/2 diced onion for 4 min on med-high.
- Add ~1 tsp grated ginger root (fresh is best) and 1 cup of quinoa (rinsed and drained), cook for 1 min.
- Stir in 2 tsp of garam masala (you can also add spices separately based on your taste - cayenne, coriander, cinnamon, etc) & 1/2 tsp salt, cook for 1 min.
- Add 2 cups stock (chicken or veggie) and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 min.
- Stir in green peas (frozen or fresh - I use the petit french ones from Trader Joes) and cook for another 5 min until tender.
- Fluff with fork, add additional seasoning if needed, and some fresh chopped cilantro if you wish!

SO GOOD!

My fav it tomato soup and grilled cheese on a rainy or cold day cost about 6 or my mom makes the best beef stew with carrots,celery, and some rice for our family of four for just 8-9 bucks and there are always seconds!!!

My favorite budget friendly meal has always been spaghetti. It's versatile and pleases everyone. Making it without meat saves you even more.

Beans and rice are fantastically easy, as is chili mac, which my son loves. Shepherds pie is also a big favorite in our house.