Nov 24, 2008 8:03 pm US/Eastern
Cutting Corners, Not Taste For Thanksgiving Dinner
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
It's a big shopping week for families across South Florida as they try to stock up on what they will need for Thanksgiving Day dinner while trying to stay on a budget.
"I have just the stuff I need for the recipes, that's it," Maria Castano told
CBS4's Gwen Belton as she shopped for the holiday.
Fellow shopper Kit Gorman said she's also looking to save money as well. She said this year she and her family are cutting out some of the appetizers.
"We're cutting back on a few items, such as crab," said Gorman.
Castano and Gorman are like many families this year, trimming the grocery bill during lean times. Nutritionist Vicki Ellis Hatch says smart shoppers will find that they can still have a complete turkey dinner without getting rid of all the trimmings.
"If you're looking at the coupons and watching for the ads at the stores, I think you'll find some good deals," said Hatch.
Hatch suggests before heading out to the grocery store, write down all the items needed on a list. Working from a list helps keep shoppers from picking up unnecessary items and overspending. She said with careful planning and by sticking to the basics, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for a family of four will cost around $20 to $25. Hatch said the first place to save money is with the turkey itself. Frozen turkeys tend to be less expensive than fresh ones and run about 70 cents to a dollar a pound. For a family of four, a ten pound turkey would only run about $10. Another suggestion – go pot luck. Hatch said if you are having guests over, have them bring a dish.
You can also save money by buying locally grown produce.
"All of our Homestead produce is in season, and it's full and at its best price," said Kelly Boyle with Norman Brothers Produce.
While you're watching your bottom line, Hatch also reminds everyone to watch their waistlines by making healthier choices this holiday season.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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