How Healthy is your Lunch?

Since returning to work full time I have really struggled with what to have for lunch. I will admit to getting lazy and fed up with sandwiches. On the odd occasion I have called into Tesco on my way to work and picked something up. I tend to go for their salads but have also been tempted with their delicious wraps. This is not always good for my diet or for my pocket! So when I saw this infographic from TrustTwo I thought that I would share it with you as it certainly did open my eyes!

One Pot Fish Stew on a Budget

Who does not love a good way to save money on meals? As the prices of our everyday food goes up I am constantly trying to find ways to make both the food and our money go further. Back in March The Guardian reported that there had been a 2.3% rise in the price of everyday produce that we buy from the supermarket. I am sure that we are not the only family that is feeling the pinch! Despite trying to save money I also want to ensure that we are eating healthily. One food that is full of goodness but always seems to be quite expensive is fish. When I go shopping I always check out the reduced section and when they have fish I get stocked up! 

Before I tell you all about my Fish Stew on a Budget recipe let me tell you how I save money on our meals...

• Use less meat/fish and bulk dishes up with vegetables, beans or grains such a pearl barley or lentils
• Always check out the reduced section in the supermarket
• Freeze any leftovers as they can be added to future meals
• Don't always go for the branded items, try the supermarket own brand and value brands
• Check the price of loose fruit and vegetables and compare as they are often cheaper than the pre packaged ones
• Visit the local independent greengrocer
• Compare prices between the supermarkets
• Visit bargain supermarkets such as Aldi or Lidl
• Before buying household items and toiletries check out the prices at discount home stores such as Home Bargains and b&m
• Take any money off vouchers with you
• Meal plan before you shop and write a list of what you need

Saving Money on Foodie Days

Foodie days out are the perfect way to treat someone special in your life. Whether it is for valentine's, a birthday or just because you want to there are some fantastic deals out there to be had. Today I thought that I would share with you some of my top foodie experiences that are on my 'to do' list as well as some that I have already done!

Afternoon Tea

This is a classic English tradition that must be experienced by all. I was lucky enough to experience my first afternoon tea last year. I visited The Berkeley Hotel in London with the wonderful team from Carnival and dined on the exquisite Pret-a-Portea. We dined on sandwiches, cakes, scones and drank champagne! Before you book check out which hotels or cafes have any special offers running. A lot will have cheaper rates during the week!

Wine Tasting at a Vineyard

Weekly Meal Plan Week 4 2017 - Plus Top Tips on How to Save Money on your Weekly Shop

Hello and welcome to my weekly meal plan for week 4 of 2017.

I was recently asked how I save money on my weekly shopping and as saving money and meal planning goes hand in hand I thought that this would be the perfect post to write about my top tips. Feeding a family can be one of the biggest expenses each month. It is so easy, whilst shopping, to be drawn in by 'special offers' and 'multibuys' which often result in unnecessary items being thrown into the trolley. Believe me we have done this on many a shopping trip and what was meant to be a small shop ended up being a trolley full and numerous pounds more than we wanted to spend. There are a number of small changes that can be made to help you save money, reduce your food waste and be more of a savvy shopper.

Here are my top tips for cutting your shopping expenses...

Christmas Preparations

Can you believe it is Christmas day in just 5 weeks? Now that we are almost in December my thoughts are definitely turning to the festive preparations. I am starting to write my lists of what I need to do and what I still need to buy.

Being the foodie that I am Christmas dinner is top of my list!

Photograph courtesy of Pixabay

So far I have got ideas for the big day but I am planning on having a few trial runs over the next few weeks to find the perfect centre piece for the traditional Christmas turkey. Over the coming weeks I will be sharing how I get on and how I will be preparing my turkey on Christmas day.

Then I need to plan what I will be serving alongside the turkey. The vegetables, side dishes, starters, desserts, snacks, drinks, oh the list goes on!

Then there are the presents to buy!

Saving Money for Christmas

In just over 10 weeks it is going to be Christmas. I do not know about you but I have a habit of leaving things until last minute. This includes saving money for the big holiday. We all love Christmas time. It is a real family affair and we always splash out. We buy lots of foodie treats and drinks and of course plenty of presents. As much as we love to give on Christmas not going over our budget is a must. Nobody wants to spend months paying off the credit card due to over spending. Today I thought that I would share with you my top saving tips. 

Covering the Bills Over an Expensive Summer

We all know that the summer holidays can be an expensive time of year. The kids are off school and you want to make the most of the time by going for days out or taking holidays.

At the end of the summer holidays all parents have to do the dreaded school uniform shopping trip. This year we have been amazed by how much it has cost us. Our eldest is now going up to secondary school so has needed a completely new uniform, which includes specially embroidered items which have cost us an absolute fortune. This is before we have even considered buying school shoes, football boots and trainers! This year is costing us even more as the twins are starting full time school. When you are buying three pairs of school shoes, three pairs of trainers and uniforms the bills certainly do mount up.

Interior Design Trends For 2016 - How To Increase Your Property Value

You may remember that recently I have been talking about how to save money. Sometimes spending money can also have huge benefits. One benefit is increasing your property value. This is a great way to make a long term investment. So when I was asked if I would share a great infographic with you I thought it would be a great idea. I love all of these tips so thought that you would to!

Here are the top interior design trend for 2016 and how you can increase the value of your property...

Emergency Loan Solutions

We all have those moments when we need some more money. Whether it is thanks to a broken washing machine or a broken car having somewhere to go that can help is a necessity in this day and age. The vast majority of us just manage to get by each month, paying rent or mortgage, the bills and buying food. But when an emergency happens we are not always prepared. It is a relief to know that there are people out there that can help you in the short term.

Photograph courtesy of Vivus Blog

How To Make Your Credit Card Work For You

Even though politics isn’t one of my great priorities in life, it was hard not to be shaken by the recent Brexit vote. To what extent it will end up affecting the majority of individuals like us remains to be seen, but all the talk of recessions and downturns does make you take stock. All we can do at home is ensure that our household finances are as stable and healthy as possible.

The big one which seems to be a problem is debt, and Brits are quietly slipping further and further into a dangerous spiral, and living beyond their means. It’s interesting to note that there is such a stigma surrounding taking out a loan, yet when it comes to credit cards, many are willing to swipe or tap away at the plastic without much consideration.

The irony of this is that credit cards, although convenient, are typically very expensive if you simply make minimum repayments each month. APRs are usually 20 per cent or more, which is a much higher interest rate than you’ll generally get on a personal loan if your credit rating is sound.

Using your credit card to your advantage

Of course, credit cards can be a force for good too. First of all, using them (and paying them off) is actually vital to building a good credit score. But the more appealing perk is undoubtedly the rewards many providers are throwing at us in order to attract business. Some are offering great cashback deals every time you spend, while many others are offering things like vouchers, free travel insurance and significant discounts on a variety of purchases.

There is no reason not to make the most of such benefits, and popping your ordinary expenditure on your credit card as opposed to debit card won’t cause any harm – provided you ensure that you clear the balance each month. Because if not, the interest you’ll need to pay will likely far outweigh any rewards you’ve enjoyed. After all, these credit card companies are out to make a profit from us.

Celebrate the Queen's 90th Birthday with Aldi

This weekend people all over the country will be celebrating the Queen's 90th birthday. What better way to celebrate than with a traditional street party! But this year why not make the street party even more exciting by having a barbecue street party!

Aldi have so many products that are ideal for a celebration that would be fit for her Majesty!

Today I am going to showcase my favourite products that I have found in Aldi which all have a true street party feel to them.

These Heartsease Farm drinks are deliciously sweet drinks made with spring water. They are perfect for children, as a refreshing drink or to use as a mixer with spirits. In other shops these drinks are priced at £2.29 so when I saw them in Aldi for just £1.59 I could not resist! They come in three truly British flavours, Raspberry Lemonade, Elderflower Presse and Traditional Lemonade.

Grove Manor British rose wine was a true bargain at just £2.59. This is a slightly sparkling fruity wine which has a sweetness from strawberries and cherries. Served chilled it is perfect as a summer wine.

Root Veg and Bacon Hash

I love buying stew packs of vegetables. They are such good value and full of delicious root vegetables. There are so many different meals that you can make with one simple bag of vegetables. Today I am sharing one of our favourite meals. This dish can be made using any left over vegetables that you may have after a Sunday dinner or you can pop to Aldi spend just £1.39 on a stew bag and make a hearty meal that is well within budget!

This is what I did...

Save Money this Valentines Day

Valentines Day is a time to show the people that mean the most to us just how much we truly love them. But we do not need to spend a fortune to show how much we love that special person. You could make a cake, cook a romantic meal or just take time out together.

When Aldi asked me if I would like to write a Valentines post for them I had ideas of making an easy romantic meal or a dessert full of love. But when I saw the fantastic Valentines day offers that they had and I just had to share them. This Valentines day you do not need to spend a lot of money and Aldi will certainly help you show how much you love and appreciate that special person without breaking the bank.

Before I go on to some beautiful floral offer that they have got I thought that I would share a few of Aldi's romantic recipes that they have got on their website.

1 - Lamb Steak with Mint Butter

2 - Specially Selected Wagyu Burgers

3 - Selected Wine Cases

4 - Raspberry Cranachan

5 - Pork Fillet with Apple Butter

6 - Ballycastle and Dark Chocolate Mousse

Any of these meal ideas would make a deliciously romantic meal. My favourite has to be the puddings and of course the pink bubbly!

If you are not planning a romantic meal but want to shower your loved one with flowers then Aldi certainly have some amazing offers! At this time of year the price of flowers goes up due to the demand. But Aldi have kept their prices down and they have a bouquet to suit all tastes and all budgets. These are my top 6 Aldi Valentines bouquets...

1 - This bouquet consists of a whopping 100 red rose! Yes that is not a typing error, it does say one hundred red roses. This enormous bouquet is priced at just £25 which is a great bargain!

2 - If 100 red roses are a few too many then you could always settle on this lovely bunch of 12 red roses for just £3!

3 - Aldi have created this luxury rose bouquet for £20. You have the traditional red roses paired with the beautiful Gypsophila.

4 - To say I love you with a single red rose certainly will suit all budgets at just £2.50 and it even comes complete with this love heart vase.

5 - This stunning bouquet of premium Naomi red roses will cost you just £25.

6 - If you want to steer away from tradition these beautiful tulip bouquets will be perfect for just £5. I have got to admit I love seeing tulips around the house.

I hope that this post has given you a few ideas for Valentines day this year. However you can make Valentines day last all year by telling your loved one how much you love them daily and often do romantic gestures. It does not have to be on just this one day of the year and with Aldi's low prices you can afford to do it more often.

Have a lovely Valentines x

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.

New Years Eve Party Food with Aldi

On the run up to Christmas I gave you my top money saving tips in my #ThriftyChristmasThursday posts with Aldi. I gave you tips on how to save money on your meat, fish and vegetarian options, vegetables, desserts and sweet treats and drinks. Today I am going to tell you how you can save money when it comes to your New Years Eve party.

Aldi stock a wide variety of party food. From their everyday range to their Specially Selected range. There is going to be something to suit everyone. Party food is definitely the easy option as their range can all be cooked at the same temperature. Served alongside fresh salad, dips, coleslaw and pickles you can be sure to create a buffet that will not only please but will also impress.

Here are my top party food choices, as taste tested by my family...

Thrifty Christmas Thursday - Desserts and Sweet Treats

This week has to be my one of my favourite weeks. This week I am focusing on desserts and sweet treats. Christmas foods would not be complete without some delicious sweet treats. I always say that for the week over Christmas and new year the diet gets put to one side and I enjoy eating all of the sweetness that Christmas has to offer. I am delighted to say that Aldi are certainly not short on the sweet treats and desserts! They stock your regular mince pies and Christmas puddings but also have so many of the traditional European breads and cakes too, and all at a great price.

As you can probably imagine I was spoilt for choice when it came to deciding which desserts and sweet treats to feature this week, there were so many! But I did manage to narrow it down. Here are the desserts and sweet treats that I would recommend!

Thrifty Christmas Thursday - Vegetables and Trimmings

This week for Thrifty Christmas Thursday I am focusing on the vegetables. Vegetables can often be forgotten, but on any Christmas dinner they also take centre stage.

We all know about the traditional Christmas vegetables and have all seen the Christmas cook spending all Christmas morning in the kitchen preparing the big meal. So today I am going to give you my top tips on how you, the cook, can leave the kitchen and enjoy Christmas day with your family safe in the knowledge that all of the food is prepared and will be easy to cook.

The vegetables which I am going to feature today are...

Thrifty Christmas Thursday with Aldi - Meat, Fish and Vegetarian Options for Christmas Dinner

From now until Christmas, Thursdays are now officially called #ThriftyChristmasThursday. Every week I will be telling you how you can save money this Christmas. Working with Aldi and I will be showing you my top foodie finds which will be perfect for Christmas. Best of all you will find all of your favourite food and drink at a price that will not break the bank!

For me, and I am sure many of you, food plays an important part on Christmas day. I have fond memories of sitting down with my family enjoying a big traditional roast turkey dinner with all of the trimmings. It is only now that it is now my turn to prepare this all important meal that I realise how much time and effort goes into it. I have also discovered how expensive it can be to cater for everybody on Christmas day. That is why I am going to share with you my own 'specially selected' dishes which I think are perfect for the big day and will not disappoint anyone. I will also be sharing ways to make cooking the all important meal a little easier so that on Christmas day you are not stuck in the kitchen cooking while everyone else is having fun. You, too, will be able to spend quality time with your family safe in the knowledge that the food has been prepared and you will all enjoy a fantastic meal!

Today, I am focusing on the main course. Today is all about the meat, fish and vegetarian options.

The Mince Pie Taste Challenge

The one thing I love about Christmas is the food, especially the mince pies. However I will admit to being quite fussy when it comes to mince pies.

Only the best will do!

So when Aldi asked me if I would like to try their mince pies I was curious to see if we would be able to tell the difference. I decided to get the hubby and my parents involved and asked them to do a blind taste test, just like they do on the adverts.

We tested the Aldi Specially Selected mince pies against my usual favourite Tesco Finest mince pies, Tesco regular and value mince pies as well as Mr Kipling mince pies.

Top left - Mr Kipling
Top right - Tesco Finest
Bottom left - Aldi
Bottom right - Tesco

I knew that Aldi were facing a tough challenge as I adore Tesco Finest mince pies. As soon as they come out in the shops you can guarantee that a box will end up in my trolley!

So how did Aldi's mince pies do?

Let me tell you the results...