One of my big concentrations this year has been to improve consistency of meals. I've been planning meals, trying to figure out what I should do to make the next meal go more smoothly, and what can be prepared ahead of time. One of the best 'do it yourself' tricks to save time, and yes, money -- is to prepare what the cooks down in New Orleans call the Holy Trinity.
Celery, onion, green peppers, all chopped up together and in their plastic container, ready to go. I usually whack up some of each separately, but do a big container of the mix. Hopefully you'll find yourself utilizing more veggies in the family diet if you do this. It takes not-much-time, though you'll need longer the first time or two. Like anything else, you'll improve with practice. Then, when you are ready to cook, toss liberal amounts in the pan to make spaghetti sauce, roasts, and so on. The longer it cooks, the more great taste gets infused in your food. Try it! The before and after picture are below; use them as a guide.
