Preparing Holiday Meals on a Budget

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If you're on a budget, New Mexico State University's Anna María Pérez-Wright has tips for saving money on holiday meals.

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Cooking a special holiday meal without putting a dent in the family budget can sometimes be a challenge. Family specialist Connie Kratzer with New Mexico State University's Cooperative Extension Service says you can make a festive meal without overspending if you plan ahead.

"Make a list of everything you'll need for the meal as far in advance as possible. That way you have time to compare prices and buy things on sale. Don't buy perishables too soon. You don't want them to spoil. Also, be sure you have room to store the food, especially if it needs to be kept frozen or put in the refrigerator."

Since turkey is usually the largest purchase of the holiday meal, buying the right size bird is a must. Kratzer says whole turkeys over 18 pounds are the best value because there's more meat to the bone.

"But, think about how many people you will be feeding. You don't want to buy such a big turkey that you're going to be eating turkey for many, many days after the holiday. Also, be sure it'll fit in your oven. After the meal, put leftovers away promptly and plan meals to use them so they don't go to waste."

Another fun way to save is to provide the main dish and ask everyone else to bring a favorite side dish. For N-M-S-U's College of Agriculture and Home Economics, I'm Anna María Pérez-Wright.