• In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often find ourselves counting down the days until the next payday, especially when our wallets are feeling a little lighter than we’d like. But don’t fret, financial constraints don’t have to mean sacrificing flavour or nutrition.

    Whether you’re a student on a tight budget, a family trying to make ends meet, or simply someone looking to save a few extra dollars, this roundup of recipes has something for everyone. From hearty pasta, comforting omelettes and deliciously quick and easy dishes, you’ll discover how to maximise your pantry staples and produce mouthwatering meals.

    1. Easy beef lasagne

    A quick and easy weeknight meal that you can whip up in just 40 minutes and is budget-friendly too!

    Easy beef lasagne

     

    2. Fried chicken with spicy tomato dipping sauce

    These EXTRA CRISPY fried chicken tenders are easy to make at home and every bit as delicious! Elevate your comfort food cravings to new heights as you savour each bite of perfectly golden and crunchy chicken, paired with a tantalizingly tangy and spicy tomato sauce dip.

    Fried chicken with spicy tomato dipping sauce

     

    3. Loadshedding Boerewors Roll

    Try this take on the classic Boerewors roll next time loadshedding has you in a time crunch for lunch or dinner. Made with sweet caramelised onions and topped with tomato sauce, this is the perfect recipe to make on a gas stove or the braai.

    Loadshedding Boerewors Roll

     

    4. Lemon chicken recipe

    A quick and easy zesty lemon chicken recipe that makes the perfect mid-week meal! Budget-friendly and only takes 25 minutes to make, count me in!

    Lemon chicken recipe

     

    5. Loadshedding Omelette Dinner 

    Who doesn’t love a good omelette? Try this quick and easy Loadshedding Omelette Dinner on a gas stove next time the power is cut off. It is packed with proteïns and vitamins and it’s budget-friendly too!

    Loadshedding Omelette Dinner

     

    6. Wrap with rotisserie chicken and avo

    This wrap with rotisserie chicken and avo is the perfect meal to make when you’re in a rush and looking to make something nutritious on a budget!

    Wrap with rotisserie chicken and avo

     

    7. Sticky chicken drumsticks with roasted potato wedges

    Cost-effective, sorted in a hurry and delicious – that’s what midweek family suppers should be!

    Sticky chicken drumsticks with roasted potato wedges

     

    8. Sausage, fennel and burrata pasta

    Tasty sausages add all the seasoning you need in this creamy and deliciously savoury pasta, which can be on the table in well under 30 min.

    Sausage, fennel and burrata pasta

     

    9. Cheat’s macaroni and cheese

    Our smart cheat’s version of this all-time favourite is great when friends pop in for supper and can be on the table in just 15 minutes!

    Cheat’s macaroni and cheese

     

    10. Mushroom Stroganoff Recipe

    Waiting on payday gives us the perfect excuse to enjoy easy, comfort food and what better way to do so than with a hearty, rich in flavour and fuss-free meal. The perfect midweek meal packed with umami! Indulge in this creamy mushroom stroganoff.

    Mushroom Stroganoff Recipe

     

    ALSO SEE: Recipe roundup: 5 quick & easy dinner recipes to make when you’ve got too much on your plate

    Recipe roundup: 5 quick & easy dinner recipes to make when you’ve got too much on your plate

    Feature image: Pexels