The holidays tend to be a rather hectic time for most families.  Many of us will not want to turn to the “easy-out” of fast food or delivery, as often this year, since this can quickly become costly. Conserve your holiday budget, while saving time in the kitchen, with these time saving kitchen tips.

1. Stock up on steam ready frozen vegetables.  They cut down on prep and clean up time.  ( The long string beans are great in stir-fries)

2. Plan for leftovers.  When preparing any meal that saves well, or can be utilized in multiple ways (ie: meatloaf), make extra.  Cook once eat twice.

3. Save time on clean-up.  Line baking sheets with parchment paper.  Not only will clean up be a breeze, but your recipe results will be better as well.  Broiler & grill pans can be lined with foil, to save cleaning time, also.

4. The pressure cooker is your time saving friend. Cooking times are immensely reduced, in pressure cookery.  Newer models have plenty of safety features,  and electric pressure cookers are even available.

5. Post a kitchen measure conversion chart conveniently inside a cabinet door.  It will make doubling or reducing recipe size quick & easy.

This post was written in response to the blogging contest at http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/samsung-blogging-sweepstakes .