The Takeout Alternative

Wednesday was a long day at work, a true hump day. Trying to stay motivated, my husband and I went for a good long run, but by the end of it, we were tired, hungry, and in no mood to cook. On top of that, we really needed to go get some groceries and do laundry. This is the sort of evening we would normally order pizza, some burritos, or some other cheap and quick takeout.

Instead, we picked up a few things at the grocery store, and for far less than takeout, we were able to eat a healthier, more responsible meal. Grab a good bread, find a few olives, and buy whatever cheese and fruit is on sale. Slice and serve and enjoy!

Our meal came from Whole Foods. Our bread was Iggy's, which was 2.49 for a delicious loaf of sourdough (we only used about half of the loaf on a very filling dinner.) There was some local fresh mozarella from a farm in vermont on sale, and we served about 5 worth of cheese. The tin of olives was by not the most local, but I don't know of any New England olive groves! Besides, the olives were .79. The strawberries were from California, not the best again but closer than some of the other fruit options, and they were a great deal at 5 for 2 pounds. We ate about 1/2 a pound. Last but not least, the deli section had a great deal on sundried tomato marinated chicken breast, 5.99/lb. That's cheaper than most deli meats, and so we bought a couple breasts to last us for the next few days lunch. We sliced up one breast for dinner. Total cost per person? When I do the math, we ate for about 4.40 a person. Still more than a dollar cheaper than the cheapest takeout (which, if you must, is a delicious, affordable, and all natural option) that I know!

So turn your takeout into a quick take-away from the grocery store, and keep the change!