Getting Ahead of the Holiday Meal Cost

Frozen Items-Part 5

Time is flying and the holidays are just around the corner.  With just a few weeks left it’s time to  shift our focus to the frozen meal items.  Freezer space can be at a premium, so we want to purchase these items nearer to our holiday meal.  As you think about your holiday menu, the list below may be helpful in developing your shopping list.

Common Freezer Items:

• Cranberries
• Frozen Breads (rolls, garlic toast)
• Frozen Desserts
• Frozen Fruits
• Frozen Juices for homemade punch
• Frozen Vegetables
• Meats (including breakfast meats-bacon & sausage for overnight guests)
• Pie Crusts
• Sauces

When considering your meat purchases, remember to include meats used for seasonings in other dishes. Don’t forget to label any freezer items you may purchase. If you aren’t able to use them for the holiday meal, you’ll be aware how long the item has been stored and can plan for future use. Be sure to check freezer space before grocery shopping. There may be some old items that need to be discarded.  Spending money on items you may not have storage for is counterproductive to preparing in advance.

If your food item cannot be cooked from frozen, be sure to allow enough time for your frozen items to thaw following safe food practices. Previously prepared soups, stews, chili, pastas, sauces, and casseroles freeze well and can be prepared ahead of time and served as a part of the holiday meal. Previously prepared and frozen meals are great time savers and may allow more time to shop, prepare specialty items, clean, and rest before dinner time. If guests will arrive before the main courses for dinner are complete, frozen appetizers such as quiche may curb their hunger until the meal is complete.

The Getting Ahead of Holiday Meal Cost series is sponsored by the More In My Basket (MIMB) Program.  Visit morefood.org for the complete series or to contact the More In My Basket staff.

PDF of Getting Ahead of the Holiday Meal Cost – Frozen Items – Part 5