Will this Christmas be more expensive? 7 tips to save on dinner.

7 strategies to save on dinner, even with price increases.

Food prices have been consistently rising, and this year, Christmas foods such as cod, turkey, and sweets are becoming more expensive. According to recent data released by DECO PROteste, the essential Christmas basket has increased by about 4%, reaching an average cost of 52.89 euros.

To overcome these difficulties, pay attention to these 7 tips from 20minutos, shared in the News at the Minute:

• 1. Plan the Christmas menu: Decide in advance the dishes and consider the number of guests, including appetizers, main course, drinks, and desserts. Avoid adding last-minute products to respond to unplanned requests.

• 2. Define a budget: Establish how much you can spend and adjust the menu if necessary. Compare prices between different supermarkets to find the best options within the defined value;  

• 3. Buy in advance: Get the ingredients as soon as possible to avoid last minute price increases. You can also freeze products that stay fresh longer.

• 4. Take advantage of promotions: Being attentive to promotions can be an effective way to save money. Start looking for discounts as soon as you define the menu.

• 5. Replace expensive products: You don't need to spend too much to create delicious dishes. Replace expensive ingredients with economical alternatives, like shrimp instead of barnacles, and turkey or pork instead of beef;

• 6. Opt for seasonal products: Seasonal products are more affordable and fresh. Fruits, vegetables, and meats typical of this time of year are good choices to save.

• 7. Cook at home: Preparing dishes at home is always cheaper than ordering takeout. Be the chef of your dinner and save significantly.  

With these simple tips, you can plan a Christmas dinner that respects the budget, without compromising tradition and quality. Organization and anticipation are the keys to facing increases and ensuring a peaceful and tasty Christmas.

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