It's not too early to think about the coming holidays. Regardless of your family size and traditions, October through December is likely to include at least one occasion where food is the feature. Saving money becomes easier if you plan ahead so let's think about ways to be health–smart and dollar wise!

• Pumpkin and hubbard squash are in and ready to be cooked and strained for desserts, pies and even soup. While you are at it, roast the seeds for a great snack. For a different taste, try tossing the roasted seeds in spices you enjoy like cumin or curry.
• Start watching for specials on your favorite meats, and get ready to freeze them for later use. Turkey breasts serve the small family need for a Thanksgiving meal. Beef brisket done in the crock pot or oven has the dual purpose of a pot roast meal and planned–overs for sandwiches or wraps for another meal.
• Think oven meals that fit the need for a warm–up meal. When was the last time you had meatloaf? Your Giant Eagle^® meat department has blends of ground meat that give you variety. Once again, meat loaf today and sandwiches or the base for a Shepherds pie the next day (top it with mashed potatoes and bake).
• Cider is priced right and is a great drink cold or hot. Combine some cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg or pre–blended mulling spices in a tea strainer and heat for a great drink.
• Cranberries come on the scene and it's a good time to make your chutney or cranberry orange relish for the holidays. These freeze nicely in small canning jars.
• Football season is still a major occasion for many. If you are looking for some snack ideas, popcorn can be a cost–conscious option. Vary the seasonings or use it as a base for a trail mix with nuts, small pretzels, toasted cereal and dried cranberries or raisins.
• Halloween ends up the month. Mulled cider and popcorn are good treats for the family and friends but remember that some adults won't allow children to keep any homemade treats. Rather than wasting your money and time on making home–made treats, start shopping for safe and health–smart choices. Small single– servings of pretzels, pre–wrapped graham cracker treats, or 100% juice boxes or small apples are ideas to consider. And if candy is a must (in moderation of course), look for mini bars and pre–wrapped items without peanuts or nuts if allergies could be a problem.
• Apples are at their best right now and finding ways to use them to add a fruit and meal variety could be a family challenge! How many ways can you think of to serve apples? Baked, crisps, pies, stewed, applesauce, dipped in peanut butter or caramel, waldorf salad (chopped with a mixture of celery, nuts, dried cranberries and a dressing of Greek yogurt – or mayonnaise, with a dash of cinnamon). Homemade apple butter is a good way to keep an overstock of apples for a later use. And don't forget that they travel well to the game, school or work...just wash and enjoy!

October 2011