Before you go

Planning your meals and the shopping you need for them is a sure fire way to save you time and money.

• Write out a plan for your meals for the week ahead.
• Get your family involved by asking them to suggest what meals they’d like to have.
• Make a shopping list so you only buy what you need.
• Check what you have left from last week. Can you use it up? Why not be creative and try something new.

In the store cupboard

Keep your kitchen cupboard stocked with these top 10 essentials and you’ll always be able to rustle up a meal with your leftovers.

• Flour
• Sugar
• Herbs, spices and condiments
• Pasta
• Rice
• Ready made sauces
• Oils (olive, vegetable, sunflower)
• Canned fish
• Tinned tomatoes
• Vinegar (white wine, balsamic)

At the shops

• Try to just buy what’s on the list and not be tempted by things you might not use.
• Buy your food loose where possible to avoid buying more than you need.
• Don’t go for the buy one get one free offers unless you can definitely use the free one, or give it to a friend.
• Set a budget – aim to spend £10 less than your average weekly shop.