Have you ever been grocery shopping and looked at the label on a food package and realized you couldn’t pronounce half of the ingredients, or wondered why the product required so many ingredients? Or perhaps wondered how people ate before there were so many readily available and easily accessible foods to purchase? Many of us have the desire to make more of our food at home but don’t have the time (or energy) to spend hours in the kitchen. If this sounds like you, check out these simple swaps you can make from scratch that won’t have you standing in the kitchen all day and night just to put dinner on the table.
- Salad Dressing – This is, in my opinion, one of the most simple swaps to make yourself. My favorite is an easy citrus or strawberry vinaigrette like this one that can be quickly shaken or blended together for a delicious and healthy dressing made from scratch.
- Hummus – Storebought hummus often contains many unwanted or unnecessary ingredients. You can easily make your own at home with chickpeas and just a handful of other ingredients.
- Dinner Rolls – I know not everyone has time to make their own bread from scratch every week, but these 30 minute dinner rolls are soft and delicious and, when paired with some butter, take every meal up a notch.
- Granola – Granola is another thing that is cheaper and healthier to make at home. Plus, the added bonus is you can add whatever dried fruits or nuts you like best to customize it! Check out this recipe for homemade granola.
- Salsa – Homemade salsa with fresh tomatoes beats out jarred salsa any day! Try out this recipe for fresh homemade salsa the next time you’re having Mexican food or need a tasty dip to take to a party.
- Trail Mix – Most store-bought trail mixes are loaded with sugar, hydrogenated oils and even candy. Follow this basic formula for building a better trail mix and store in single-serving containers so you can easily grab one when you need a quick snack.
- Bone Broth – Bone broth and meat stock are two of the simplest homemade swaps that can be used in so many recipes, and it’s a great way to make the most of your grocery budget!
What do you enjoy making from scratch at home? Will you be trying any of these simple swaps?
