Saving Dinner
by Leanne Ely, Certified Nutrition Counselor

There is never a time where food isn't appreciated. And in today's tough economy, there couldn't be a better gift for the holidays, nor could there be one that's just a little easier on the wallet!

Add to that the convenience of holiday shopping at your grocery store and leaving the mall to the teenagers. Can I hear an amen?

So you know what that means... yes, I'm going to give y'all another list. This one is my top 5 holiday gifts to give.

I've done presents like these for years, gifting many an appreciative soul and now I'm going to share the secret to the perfect, edible gift!

1) Flavored Vinegars
Very easy to make, two methods; you can see me make them by clicking here.

2) Dried Bean Soup Mix
Easy as pie, but healthier! Here's the recipe: In a one pint canning jar, layer 1/4 cup of each bean: navy beans, black beans, red beans and pintos. Then make up a packet of seasoning: 1 bay leaf, 3 teaspoons bouillon (chicken, beef or vegetable), 1 teaspoon thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon cumin.

Add instructions: Soak beans overnight, then add one chopped onion, soaked beans and seasoning packet into your crockpot and fill with water so that all is covered by at least an inch. You can add a can of tomatoes toward the end of cooking time.

3) Salsa is a great gift!
To make, chop tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeno and add a touch of cumin and a little salt. You could add garlic if you like. Play with this recipe and make it your own. Put a tag on there that reads, "You are hot!" for fun. You can give this fresh (keep refrigerated) or can it (see instructions on your canner for specifics).

4) Popcorn and a Movie
Easy, fun gift! Give a classic movie (It's A Wonderful Life comes to mind), placed in a huge plastic bowl from the dollar store, with a big bag of gourmet popcorn, tied up with cellophane and a raffia bow. One year, I used a paint pen to decorate the bowl with drawn on popcorn and the family's name. How easy is that?

5) Freezer Meals!
Nothing says lovin' like something from the oven. What if you gave the gift of a week's worth of dinner, all frozen, ready to thaw and cook up fresh in their ovens?

Food is indeed a great gift, clutter-free and something everyone needs!

This year, shop from your grocery store and make food gifts that will bring a smile to everyone's face! For more ideas, go to www.savingdinner.com

Season eatings!
Leanne

Leanne Ely is New York Times Bestselling author and the Dinner Diva at SavingDinner.com. For more information, check out the website, www.savingdinner.com