If you find yourself saying, “Oh deer!” (pun intended) while trying to plan a holiday meal that’s crowd-pleasing, delicious, healthy, and budget-friendly, you’re not alone.

At UF/IFAS Extension Family and Consumer Sciences, we’re here to make meal planning and smart shopping easier, and maybe even a little more fun! Check out these eight festive ‘reindeer rules’ to guide you in saving money and planning a tasty meal your loved ones will enjoy.

Reindeer Rules to Plan Like a Pro:

1. Plan, plan, plan. This will light your way. Planning your meals based on your budget will help you keep spending in check, and you will save money because you are only buying what you truly need.
2. Check the pantry, fridge, and freezer. To save money, inventory what you already have before you make a list of what you need. This will help you avoid buying duplicates and also help you clear out some room in your fridge for holiday leftovers!
3. Cupid says, spread the joy! Consider a potluck where each family can bring a dish they enjoy. You will save time and money, add variety, and everyone will like at least

   

   one dish!

4. Stick to your list. When you shop, avoid impulse buys and focus what’s on your list. Many people find they save money by ordering groceries online because they skip the tempting smells and displays. You can do the same in the store! Be like Dasher; dash in, grab what you need, and dash out!
5. Be flexible with your protein choice. A whole turkey often costs less per person than a turkey breast. Turkey is a great lean protein option! Here is how you can prepare it safely. If you are planning on red meat, consider using less expensive cuts of meat such as a top round

   

   steak (London Broil), sirloin steaks, or sirloin tip roast. The University of Minnesota Extension also offers ideas such as skirt steak and hanging tender. For more information on how to cook them check out the Beef Association’s affordable beef cuts for families. Delicious doesn’t have to mean expensive!

6. Buy in-season. Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to be more flavorful, cost less, and often retain more nutrients because they’re consumed closer to harvest. Look for the big bins filled with one item when you go to the store to help guide you to what might be in-season. Also, check the store ad for the fruits and vegetables on sale; it is the time to enjoy these foods! Include them as the star of your sides or main dishes. Fall and winter in-season foods include pears, apples, oranges, grapefruit, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, winter squash, and broccoli. If you are in Florida, hold on! Fresh strawberries will be coming soon! Check out Fresh from Florida for what is in season in Florida in December.
7. Compare before you buy! Locate the “unit price” on the shelf sticker to see compare brands and sizes to see which has the lower unit price to give you the best deal. Bigger packages or store brands often cost less, but not always, especially during sales. A quick glance can save you big
8. Think fresh, frozen, or canned! Each form of fruits and vegetables has its advantages and disadvantages, Dancer loves them all.

   

   Being flexible with the options can keep your meals healthy and budget-friendly. Sometimes fresh broccoli is a great deal, while other times it might be better to get a bag of frozen. Don’t worry! Frozen and canned produce are packed at peak freshness, so they’re nutritious and tasty options too.

More Than the Meal

Remember that spending time with family and friends is the most important thing. People will remember the interactions and relationships long after the meal is forgotten.

Below, you can find a holiday song I wrote, set to the tune of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, to help you remember these tips. Not Grammy-ready, but kind of catchy! Wishing you a joyful holiday season!

Andrea Nikolai is a registered dietitian and the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent.

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.

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