Frozen fruit & veggie suggestions
I constantly hear complaints that the economy makes it impossible to eat healthy. While this may be true with eating out, it just doesn’t cross over to eating at home. One of the ways I’ve been saving money lately is with bags of frozen vegetables. Frozen fruits and vegetables are typically cheaper than cans and probably have less BPA. Last night I picked up two bags of already-seasoned veggie and potato mix. Empty the bag into a pan with a generous amount of butter – The fat helps little ones get all of the nutrients from their greens. (We love real Tillamook butter or Smart Balance.) Cook until slightly browned, remove from heat, cool and serve. One bag can easily feed Sebastian and myself and costs around $1.30. That is cheaper than fast food.
Image from DailySpark
Bags of organic frozen vegetables are more expensive, so shop sales, keep an eye out for grocery coupons, and don’t worry if you can’t always get the organic option. Non-organic vegetables are better than no vegetables, and definitely better than fast food (or ramen noodles or whatever your go-to cheap meal is). If you happen to grow your own vegetables or herbs, throw some of those in with the frozen stuff for added freshness and flavor.
Fruit is more expensive but also a good deal, especially if you buy frozen bags when they’re on sale. We like the “Fruit Medley” mix, complete with chunks of mango and pineapple. Throw a handful of frozen fruit in with milk or water for an easy smoothie, or blend with less liquid for tropical sorbet. I like to add Vitamin B and other supplements to my morning smoothie. Use caffeinated tea in place of water or milk for a unique pick-me-up.
Experiment with different fruit and veggie mixes and seasonings. My freezer is stocked with frozen bags right now – Cut spinach, broccoli, and lemon pepper potato, carrot and asparagus. Great as a meal on their own or as a side to some protein. I love how full and satisfied a well-seasoned bowl of vegetables leaves me, and Sebastian seriously gobbles it up.
Sidenote: “Steam fresh” bags seriously gross me out. I recommend thawing and cooking veggies on a skillet with a good amount of real butter. Especially if it’s for your kids and if you are dieting. 
© 2012
I loved this post! People don’t use frozen fruits and veggies as often as they should. They are cheap, easy to use, and great to have on hand. Especially when you want something that’s not currently in season or easy to find for a good price.
I like mixing frozen fruit w/ soy yogurt. Trader Joe’s has some great mixes.
I’m always buying frozen veggies for my stir fry. I have yet to try Trader Joe’s, but I should get some from there.
I love frozen fruits and veggies. They have the same nutritional value as the fresh stuff too because it’s frozen and they keep for longer.
I also use frozen veggies all the time. I just picked up a 5lb bag of frozen veg for like $4 at Costco. Very yummy stuff. My kids love it too…