4 Simple Food Swaps for Summer Grilling: Save Money and Elevate Your Flavor!

Summer is here, and that means it’s grilling season! But with rising meat prices, cooking outdoors can get pricey. Luckily, pro chef Grace Vallo has some simple tips to help you save money while still enjoying delicious meals on the grill.

The Current Landscape

This year, a barbecue for ten people costs around $103, which is 4% more than last summer and a whopping 41% higher than just five years ago. Factors like inflation, supply chain issues, and labor costs are all contributing to this price surge. Beef prices hit a record high recently, largely due to decreased cattle inventory and rising production costs.

Cost-Cutting Grilling Tips

1. Choose Chicken Thighs Over Breasts
Instead of buying chicken breasts, go for chicken thighs. They’re not only more flavorful but also generally cheaper. Thighs are juicier because they have more fat, which helps them stay moist on the grill.

2. Ground Turkey or Pork Instead of Beef
Beef has seen a hefty price increase—around 10% since last year. Instead, try ground turkey or pork; they’re usually more affordable for meals like burgers or kebabs. If you season them well, you won’t miss the beef!

3. Mix Beans into Your Burgers
To make your burgers stretch further, mix in beans like black beans or lentils. This adds fiber and bulk, making your patties more filling without increasing costs significantly.

4. Swap Steaks for Sausages
Steaks are often pricey cuts, so consider substituting sausages instead. They offer great flavor at a fraction of the cost. You can grill them whole or cut them into skewers for fun serving options.

Expert Insights

Chef Vallo emphasizes that these substitutions can help you enjoy summer grilling without breaking the bank. She also notes the current grocery trends and how many shoppers are adapting their buying habits in response to rising prices.

According to a recent survey by the Food Marketing Institute, many people are now more inclined to plan meals around sales and discounts. Are you making this switch too?

Final Thoughts

As you fire up the grill this summer, remember these tips to enjoy flavorful meals without inflating your grocery bill. It’s all about smart choices and getting creative with what you cook!

For more tips on saving at the grocery store, you can check out resources from the Food Marketing Institute. Enjoy grilling season and happy cooking!

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Section: Money:News Money,Exclusives,Food and drink,Food hacks,Inflation,Money saving,Money US,Recipes,Summer