1. Your freezer is your friend. When buying meat, divide into individual portions and freeze in zipper-lock plastic bags. Buy large bags of frozen vegetables and use portions as needed. Freeze all leftovers—days will come when your pocket is empty or restaurants are closed.

2. When using vegetables, canned, fresh, and frozen are interchangeable. And remember, canned food doesn’t spoil until after

it has been opened.

3. Macaroni can be used in place of ramen noodles.

4. Save all extra seasoning packets for future use. Sprinkle a seasoning packet over hamburger or chicken and brown together for a great flavor.

5. Macaroni cheese packets can be used in place of real cheese.

6. Two tablespoons dehydrated minced or chopped onion is equal to 1/4 cup fresh minced onion.

7. Salt lovers beware. Before adding extra salt, taste your food. Seasoning packets are always salty.

8. To cook noodles, follow the directions on the package unless recipe says otherwise.

9. Add more or less of any ingredient to your own liking. Be creative and enjoy yourself.

10. Low-fat or light soups, sour cream, and cream cheese can be substituted if you prefer.