Take the $5 Challenge

Take back the "value meal" this Saturday by participating in Slow Food Nation's $5 challenge by cooking a meal for no more than $5 a head. Now that hardly seems like a challenge considering that the majority of this country prepares meals everyday for a total of $5, right? It's downright easy. Well clearly, that is not the point.

There isn't a person on this green earth that hasn't been to or seen a commercial for a McDonalds or some other fast food chain that offers a "value meal" that costs approximately $5. These meals are typically sodium laden, contain copious amounts of high fructose corn syrup, and leave those who eat them in a state of disgust or a food coma, whichever comes first. All for the low, low price of $5. American value at its best.

Now do the math, $5 for a family of four is $20, no big deal. Let's say they hit up McD's 2-3 times that week. Ok, now it's $60. Multiply that by 52 weeks, that's $3,120 worth of crap being digested by not only the parents but the kids who's palates are just beginning to develop. Not only is it gross, it's expensive.

My point here is simple. You can make a meal for $5 a head and eat really well. The true challenge is figuring out menu that can be ready quickly, as in under 10 minutes, served warm and tastes good.
I have decided to take the challenge and I will share my results with you. I invite you to participate in the $5 challenge as well to support the movement towards healthier living. You can choose the simple challenge above or add my proposed twist of a 10 minute time limit. Your choice.

Whatever it is you choose to do, know that food can be prepared and served for the same price or less than a value meal. Send your story to me at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com and you could be featured on my page as the winner. Please submit photos, menu and shopping list for a chance at the challenge title. Good luck!