Grocery shopping can be expensive, and it can be tempting to buy convenience items like pre-packaged meals or snacks. However, these items often come with a premium price tag, and they can also be loaded with preservatives, artificial flavors, and other unhealthy ingredients. The good news is that there are many grocery items that you can easily make yourself at home for a fraction of the cost, and with healthier ingredients. In this article, we’ll cover some of the top grocery items you can DIY instead of buy.
- Granola Bars
Granola bars are a popular snack that is often loaded with sugar and preservatives. Instead of buying pre-packaged granola bars, try making your own. You can customize the ingredients to your liking, and make a large batch to last you for weeks. Simply mix together oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, and then bind everything together with honey and peanut butter.
- Bread
Store-bought bread is often filled with preservatives and artificial flavors. Making your own bread is not only healthier, but it’s also more cost-effective in the long run. You can make a basic loaf with just a few ingredients, or you can experiment with different types of flour and add-ins like herbs or nuts.
- Hummus
Hummus is a delicious and healthy dip that can be used for sandwiches, veggie dips, and more. Store-bought hummus can be expensive, but making your own is surprisingly easy. All you need is a can of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. You can also experiment with different flavor add-ins like roasted red pepper or jalapeno.
- Salad Dressing
Store-bought salad dressings are often loaded with preservatives and added sugars. Making your own salad dressing is a simple and cost-effective way to add flavor to your salads. You can make a basic vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar, or experiment with different flavors like honey mustard or balsamic.
- Spice Blends
Pre-made spice blends can be expensive, and they often contain added salt and preservatives. Making your own spice blends is easy and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. You can make a simple Italian seasoning blend with oregano, basil, and thyme, or experiment with different spice combinations for different cuisines.
- Pasta Sauce
Store-bought pasta sauce is often loaded with added sugars and preservatives. Making your own pasta sauce is a simple way to ensure that you’re getting fresh, healthy ingredients. You can make a basic tomato sauce with canned tomatoes, garlic, and onion, or experiment with different flavors like roasted red pepper or pesto.
- Nut Butter
Nut butter like peanut butter and almond butter can be expensive, and they often contain added sugars and preservatives. Making your own nut butter is surprisingly easy, and allows you to control the ingredients. Simply roast your nuts, and then blend them in a food processor until they become smooth and creamy butter.
- Yogurt
Store-bought yogurt can be loaded with added sugars and artificial flavors. Making your own yogurt is easy and allows you to control the ingredients. You can make yogurt with just two ingredients – milk and yogurt culture – and then customize the flavor with add-ins like honey or fruit.
In conclusion, there are many grocery items that you can easily make yourself at home for a fraction of the cost, and with healthier ingredients. From granola bars to yogurt, these DIY grocery items are simple to make and allow you to control the ingredients. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you’ll also be able to enjoy delicious, healthy foods that you can feel good about.
