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Grocery Shopping for One

Tired of food going bad and wasting your money? Sick of making the same 3 things you know how to make? Here are some tips for single person grocery shopping:

Separate and Freeze Things

Problem: I can never finish an entire loaf of bread before it goes bad.

Purchase some freezer bags and split up the loaf. Leave half out and half in the freezer for next week or the week after. Bread can stay frozen for a very long time without getting freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat those frozen slices, take them out over night to defrost. You can even take the bread out a slice at a time and pop it right in the oven for toast.

Problem: I don’t need to make 4 chicken breasts or fish fillets at once.

If you don’t already buy the Purdue individually wrapped chicken breasts (a great purchase for the single shopper!) or if you like beef or are a vegetarian, use those same freezer bags and split your food up! Immediately when you return home from the grocery store, take out each fillet or patty or breast and put it in its own freezer bag. Then you will have individual meals for one at your disposal.

Invest in spices and marinades

Problem: I only know how to make chicken/pasta/etc.

There are only so many kinds of entrees out there that are realistic for a 20-something to make. A great way to change things up is to invest in a bunch of different spices and marinades. Teriyaki one night, curry the next, then breaded and fried, then lemon and olive oil, etc. All of those flavors can be used for the same entree! It’s a way to stick to what you know without having to make the same meal every night.

Invest in Tupperware

Problem: My food goes bad too quickly

Getting a nice, multi-size set of Tupperware is a great investment. It will keep your food fresher for longer and also more organized. A lot of Tupperware today is microwaveable and can double as your bowl. Less dishes to wash!

Tupperware is also a good way to save leftovers. This writer on a budget always takes home something from a restaurant. Transfer those leftovers into a Tupperware, and they’ll last at least a day or two longer than the Styrofoam box they came in.

Buy what’s on sale

Problem: I’m sick of buying the same thing at the grocery store.

If you don’t know how to venture out, let the grocery store choose for you! Shop the front of the lane where the sales are. Buy the fish that’s on special that week. You will probably discover food you never knew you liked. Oh, and you’ll save money too.

Coming up Next: Meals and Recipes for One