Let’s talk about money-saving menus. Who doesn't need to save some money, especially in this economy? I found this information in an ancient Southern Living magazine my Aunt Annie had stashed away. The article centered on five meals that would serve four people for less than $25 - about $1.25 a serving is the breakdown. And of course, if we can find any of the ingredients on sale, the savings will be even better. Take a look:

Day 1:
Meatloaf with Green Chile-Tomato Gravy
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Sauteed Squash and Carrots

Day 2:
Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Nuggets
Oven-Roasted Potatoes
Lemon-Apple Coleslaw

Day 3:
Lemon-Garlic Roast Chicken with Sauteed Green Beans
Cornmeal Pudding

Day 4:
Baked Chicken Breasts
Pasta Pancakes and Gravy
Fresh Broccoli (steamed)

Day 5:
Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Onions
Fresh Spinach-and-Apple Salad with Cinnamon Vinaigrette
Cheddar Cheese Grits

Whoa, I thought - some of this sounds weird. But I'll admit my palette isn't all that developed. So I'm committing to trying this menu. Finally, I want you to know how grateful I am for your readership and encouraging comments (some coming to my email). And as always, here's to saving some money, and happy cook’n!

Meatloaf with Green Chile-Tomato Gravy

1 1/2 lbs hamburger
1/2 C soft bread crumbs
1 small onion, minced
1/4 C ketchup
1 lg egg, lightly beaten
2 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Green Chile-Tomato Gravy (recipe follows)

Stir together first 8 ingredients in large bowl until combined. Shape into 4 (4 inch) loaves, and place in lightly greased 13x9 baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees, 45 min. or until meat is no longer pink in center. Serve with Green Chile-Tomato Gravy.

Green Chile-Tomato Gravy
(Makes about 2 C)
Melt 2 Tbsp butter in large saucepan over medium-high heat; add 2 Tbsp flour, stirring until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, 1 min. Add 1 (14 1/2 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, 1/2 C ketchup, and 1/2 C water; cook, stirring often, 3-5 min. or until thickened.