HOW I EAT FOR $20 A WEEK

[@susans9491]

These all looked so beautiful, colorful and FRESH! I’ve never tried chayote squash but I think you’ve convinced me that it’s time. These dishes will be especially refreshing as the summer heats up, our house is brick and it can be like living in a pizza oven!❤️

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Susan 😁 Thanks so much for the support 💜 I'm grateful for you! I can't stop thinking about your kitchen and all those doors 😂 The chayote squash is exceptionally crispy with a mild flavor. Glad you like my dishes. I thought it was especially colorful this week too! 👩‍🍳 Hope you have a great rest of your weekend.

[@dawnziccardi8205]

If you use a plastic knife to cut your lettuce it won't rust on the lettuce that you didn't use. My mom taught me that. Your recipes looked delicious!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Dawn 😁 Glad you like this video! Thanks for sharing this tip.

[@wolchfam]

I’ve never heard about the plastic knife to cut lettuce. Good tip! Thanks for sharing.

[@dianalund587]

I loved this video for a couple of reasons. First, many low budget menus use so many carbs and possibly throw in one vegetable and maybe one fruit, thank you for flipping the concept. Secondly, I also enjoy watching you change the individual ingredients into different flavor profiles and textures by simply changing a spice, changing how vegetables are cut or cooked. It's also refreshing seeing how you ration out only the amount of an ingredient you need instead of adding all of it at once leaving you without much for the rest of the week. Love your approach, keep it up.

[@angelawossname]

Totally agree! With most other budget recipes I have to cut the meat and carbs in half, then triple the veg!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Diana 😁 Thank you for the positive feedback. I appreciate it so much! 🥰

[@lifetobelived9102]

I've been looking for more healthy struggle meals. I know some people have limited access to grocery stores so some people can only do the more processed options but my health can't tolerate that. I've noticed I don't eat as diverse as I used to because the increase in costs but I've started being more conscious about searching out the cheapest vegetables. I tend to be more of a fruit person so I'm trying to get in enough vegetables too. In Kroger I've been shopping off the last sale produce shelf. I noticed the fruit actually tastes better a lot of the time because it's ripe.

[@patriciatzai]

Another great video! I wanted to comment on the lemon. I used to work for a baker and she would always zest lemons before using the juice. Just wanted to mention because if you do this you can add the zest to your dish for extra lemon flavor at no added cost, or save it to use in a sweets recipe. Sometimes I do this with other citrus (like oranges and limes) as well.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Sarah 😁 I definitely should have zested (is that a word? 😂) the lemons. GREAT idea 👍

[@jeanineruby]

I freeze lemon and orange zest and use just what I need when I need it. It freezes very well.

[@alishaparr577]

That salad would be great with some olives or pickled artichoke hearts

[@ArdentMichelle]

Agreed 👍

[@atlanticalilly]

I save seeds from all of my favorite Bell peppers and mini sweet peppers and grow them in my garden 😊

[@ArdentMichelle]

I would love to have a garden. 🌱 I had relatives in Oklahoma and when I went to visit them I would spend all day working in their garden. I loved it.

[@jccastle3452]

Another great video with lots of wonderful ideas. I love that you lean towards healthy foods and incorporate veggies in your meals. I can totally see why people say they want your voice during the video. You have such a beautiful, soothing voice!

[@ArdentMichelle]

awe...thanks so much 😁 I appreciate the complement and I'm glad you are enjoying my videos. Thanks for letting me know 🥰

[@shellyk5423]

💕I love that you use real food to make budget-friendly and healthy meals. Thank you! 🍛❤️

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Shelly 😁 I'm so glad you like this menu and the foods that I love. 🥰 Thanks for letting me know.

[@angelawossname]

I still watch other budget cooking channels, but these days I go through the comments, and it anyone asks for meals that are diabetic/low carb/vegetarian, I recommend your channel. I can't afford to support your channel financially but I'm hoping I can get you a few extra subs.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Angela 😁 awe...this makes me feel so good 💜 I appreciate you. Thank you so much for supporting me and for your kind words.

[@938quilt]

wow a dollar tree next to aldi!!!

[@ArdentMichelle]

I know right?!?! How lucky am I?

[@susanjane4784]

Schar Plain Bagels are not a cheap way to go but they are the best gluten-free, diary-free bagel. I mash a little avocado on my bagel and sprinkle 'everything bagel seasoning' with some paprika or cayenne. If I want some protein I add some raw pumpkin seeds or walnuts.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks for sharing this. 😁 I use pumpkin seeds too!

[@CathieG]

I LOVE bagel sandwiches too! And I always use the EVERYTHING BUT THE BAGEL seasoning when I have smashed avocado on anything. 👍🏻😋🥑

[@ArdentMichelle]

I love that seasoning on my avocado toast too 👍

[@yvonnepalmquist8676]

Damn it. I had avocado toast today and forgot to add the "Everything but the bagel" seasoning.

[@CathieG]

@@yvonnepalmquist8676 argh you just reminded me I forgot to get avocados at the store today ☹️😢😩

[@atlanticvegansurfer8144]

Hi Michelle. I just wanted to say how much I enjoy your videos. They have helped me so much with my food budget. Here is a tip: if I am buying set price bagged vegetables, I will weigh several bags and find the one that has a bit more produce in it for the same price. Thanks again for the wonderful videos.💐

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 Yay! I'm so glad you are enjoying my videos. That's a great idea to weigh out the bags. Thanks for sharing this tip.

[@shirleyclarke4867]

I do the same thing, I always weigh the bagged veggies to get the biggest bang for my buck!

[@jgodwin717]

My fiance counts the apples in the bags. Hey they're for his lunch 😂 He prefers the smaller ones and to have an extra.

[@vickyanderson-md8sm]

Another great video. Thank you! I'm with the people that prefer to hear your voice for most of the video. I do like the music too, but there's something so soothing about your voice! I often play your videos in the background when I want to rest my eyes, but want to have something to listen to because your voice is so soothing!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Vicky 😁 Your preferences are duly noted. I've been trying to use the music more as background and filler. Glad my voice is soothing to you and some of my other viewers 🥰

[@BobbieNatividad]

After watching this video I went to Aldi and purchased a few things and came out very happy thank you

[@ArdentMichelle]

You are so welcome!

[@jacki6301]

I loved how colorful the dishes were this week. Yummy!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Jacki 😁 Thanks so much! Glad you like my meals this week.

[@wolchfam]

Amazing you can eat for a week for so little. Even though you got plenty of protein with eggs and garbanzo beans, I’d miss having meat. Also I need to be drinking tea all day - hot with milk and sugar in the morning and iced sweet tea in the afternoon and evening. Budget videos rarely include beverages and basic black tea is fairly cheap but would add to the budget. I do like watching your videos as they are very creative with ingredients. I do understand with $20 it would be hard to add in beverages and meat.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 yeah meat is so expensive, but I do some with meat. I plan to do more shortly.

[@dianalund587]

I'm with you on the beverages. I can't use caffeine, but I drink decaf tea all day long, hot and cold. It's always the first thing on my grocery list. Try as I might to drink water I don't seem to get enough liquids in me without the tea. I'd also miss the meat, but the ideas help me keep the budget down.

[@ArdentMichelle]

I don't eat a lot of meat, but I do some videos where I feature meat to help out my families that want to eat meat on a budget. I'm planning one now for next Sunday. I don't add drinks in because I figure viewers can do that on their own. I mostly drink coffee and water these days, but I LOVE SWEET TEA 💜

[@shaf1103]

I watch a lot of these and your meal plan is so unique and colorful! Thank you!!!

[@ArdentMichelle]

welcome. 💜 Thanks so much!

[@CMarie404]

I know this vid is several months old, but it auto played and I just wanted to pop in to say that the cheese in the microwave grabbed my attention. 🤩🤩I'm a creative cook and I never would have thought to do this. Will be trying that later today. Not the first time I learned and tried something totally new to me. :) I am always inspired! As for voice vs music, your voice is simply calming and pleasant. Like a salve. I imagine that sounds silly, but it really adds to the overall vibe of the channel. As soomeone with sensory issues, i am very sensitive to things that sound off or jarring. As for videos in general, music overlay can be distracting. It breaks up the experience. Usually natural voice (in video, or overlay) and/or natural environment sounds provide a more unified experience over sudden switch to music overlay. I see that sort of comment a lot in videos, and I also feel same.

[@ArdentMichelle]

I'm glad you like this video! I'm always thinking about my viewers that are diabetic and trying to find options for them. I think that's how the cheese thing came about. Thanks for the feedback on my videos! 😁💜

[@invisigoth510]

You could have used the Chana Dal (split chickpeas for those unfamiliar) for your fritters: lentils, fava beans/broad beans, & chickpeas are often recommended substitutes for yellow split peas

[@BrowneyedGirlmjd]

I had kind of a crazy Sunday into Monday so I haven’t been able to comment until now. You knocked it out of the park again! 👏👏👏👏

[@ArdentMichelle]

Yay! 😁 I'm so glad you like this video! This is how I like to eat, so I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for letting me know and I hope the rest of your week is more peaceful 😎

[@allyrooh3628]

The weather today is perfect here in Missouri. We're going to BBQ and I will be making that beautiful quinoa cold salad. I don't think I've ever seen that squash at my store, but I'm going to look harder next time I shop. Also, Toasted chickpeas make a good mock crouton for salad too! Have a great week!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Michelle 😁 Oh what a nice barbecue you have planned. Sounds fun and delicious! Love the idea of using the roasted chickpeas on the salad 👍

[@ArdentMichelle]

Enjoy your barbecue. 😁 Hope your week is good too!

[@CFord-wu3in]

As usual, awesome! Looking forward to you you will use yellow split peas. I bought some at our 99 cent store and don't quite know what to do with them now.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 Yes, I'm excited to try that recipe. Hopefully later today.

[@ArdentMichelle]

and thanks so much 🥰 glad you like this video!

[@jessicaweikers3555]

This week’s menu was so colorful!!! Loved seeing what you came up with! Some showstoppers for sure!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Jessica 😁 Glad you liked this one. Yay! Thanks for the positive feedback 🥰

[@misacruzader]

You are just so resourceful and creative with such limited constraints, I really love it.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@Ericaaaaaaaaaa]

You may have tried this before, but you can make a yummy vegetarian "tuna" salad by using smashed chickpeas instead of tuna! Just mix with relish, mayo, celery (if you have it) or whatever you usually put in tuna or chicken salad. Thanks for giving us lots of recipes that don't require heating up the oven!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Erica 😁 This ones on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

[@beckyatkinson7283]

I tried the cheese! Nuked a piece of pepper Jack and topped it with mashed great northern beans, salt and pepper 🤤 so good!!!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Becky 😁 I know right!?!?! Who would have thought the microwaved cheese would make such a great snack. Yay! Glad you like it. 👩‍🍳 Thanks for letting me know 🥰

[@janicecrosby6649]

Fabulous gourmet meals on a budget! I absolutely love your posts as viewing them is very lovely. Thank you. As usual, I am inspired.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Janice 😁 Yay! I'm so glad you are inspired by my videos! Thanks so much for the positive feedback 🥰

[@patpeters6331]

Thank you for the delicious recipes. They all look good.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Pat 😁 Glad they look good to you. Have a great week.

[@ToriE1073]

Hi Michelle!! We eat the keto bread from Aldi and while it isn’t as good as regular bread we really like it! .

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Victoria 😁 Thanks for the feedback. Are you mostly toasting it or do you use it for sandwiches also?

[@ToriE1073]

@@ArdentMichelle we use it both ways. It is definitely better toasted but good enough to give us our fix. I am down 35 pounds since January, eating low carb so I will continue to acccept that alternative. By the way, the keto tortillas are not bad at all. You can barely taste any difference.

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@ToriE1073 Congrats on the continued weight loss 🥳🎉 It definitely makes eating healthy worthwhile. I'll try that bread.

[@claudiamello7684]

About Aldi's g.f. breads- these are super hi carb, and basically just starch, not to mention expensive. BUT- I love their German pumpernickel varieties ( DEUTSCHE KUCHE brand), @ $2.50 for 7 large slices. And I love aldi's sourdough loaves, the 3 dollar-ish ones. The pumpernickel has 9 grams of fiber and 4 grams protein. Win- win.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Claudia 😁 Thanks for the input. Is there a GF bread that you like?

[@pennyrasnake1401]

I love the buttery burger blend from Kinders. I put it on everything!!!!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Penny 😁 Yes!! I love that buttery burger blend on stir fried veggies too! It smells AMAZING! I love that you can buy the smaller spice blends to try at Walmart before investing more than a few bucks on the bigger jars.

[@pennylynch913]

Hi again. Don't be scared of carbs. Lol yes we want to hear u talk bc you do a good job and your voice is lovely! Salads look great. I like a pasta salad. Glad your sons like them! Healthiest food u can eat!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Penny 😁 I eat lower carb because I feel better when I do, but I'll definitely have other videos with higher carbs for those who like to eat more. Glad you like my voice. Thanks so much for letting me know 🥰

[@jschuesler1977]

The Keto bread was not a hit in my family…ended up tossing it. I just bought the chayote blindly and I love it! It’s like Jicama when raw. I think I’ll use some in the quinoa salad you suggested and will be adding feta. I love watching your videos because we live in the same area and I know if you can do it on that budget I can too. And your dishes are so sophisticated compared to many budget videos. Thank you!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi J 😁 Thanks for the feedback on the Keto bread and hello neighbor! We are fortunate to live in a place with so many varieties of stores. 😁 Thanks for the nice complement. It is greatly appreciated. 🥰

[@jenniferjohnston5548]

Thank you buddy! I love all your ideas! Be well! ❤❤❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 🥰 Glad you like this one!

[@dreamweaver7810]

I did not see you use the jalapeno nor the dal. That brings you under your posted budget! WOW! What to go! 👍💗

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 🥰

[@stephaniehill9284]

Your quinoa salad looks beautiful! I make something similar and add feta cheese and Kalamata olives....its so good!! ❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Stephanie 😁 Glad you like my quinoa salad! That sounds delicious with olives and feta! 😋

[@elenacala]

I make a quinoa salad similar to yours. It has quinoa , black beans, cilantro, mango, avocado and a red wine vinaigrette. I liked ot eat it with tortilla chips, almost like a dip. SO good though!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Candace 😁 You always make my mouth water with your ideas! This sounds delicious. I'll have to try your version. 😋

[@itiswell333]

We are heading into summer here in aus, these recipes look so appealing and fresh, and we have so much fresh produce to choose from, can't wait to try some of these recipes ❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Nothing better than fresh produce 🍆🥕🌽 Glad you are enjoying my content. 😁

[@margeebechyne8642]

It all looked so delicious. When you were cooking the quinoa I wondered if you ever created with amaranth? If so, I would love to see how you prepare it. Thank you for all the great ideas, Michelle!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Margee 😁 Glad you like my video! 🥰I haven't tried amaranth yet, but it looks like I should because it has a great nutritional profile. Just added to the bucket list. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@sunsetvistas752]

I love your calming music ❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you like it 😁

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

A lot of that is food I would eat for flavour, apart from cost saving benefits. Thank you for the video!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Daniel 😁 I'm so glad you like my menu this week. Thanks for letting me know! 🥰

[@sparklemotion8377]

I love this video and the thumbnail is gorgeous with all those colours.😍.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you like this one. Thanks for letting me know 🥰 I thought this was an especially colorful week too.

[@earlenebrown7181]

I love the combination you come up with and your food always looks great.😊

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Earlene 😁 Thanks so much!

[@melann4065]

My Mexican husband introduced me to chaote squash and using it in soup. Love it so yummy.

[@ArdentMichelle]

It's really so good. I think having it in soups is my favorite way to eat it.

[@melann4065]

@@ArdentMichelle Me toi so far. Ps love all your creativity.

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@melann4065 Thank you 💜

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@melann4065 Thank you 🥰

[@shelzp7272]

Colorful meals! 💕

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks Shelz 🥰

[@hazelg5019]

I absolutely love quinoa salad! I'm going to try the suggestions from this video as well. I'm new to your channel and so glad I found it 😊

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Hazel 😁Yay! Welcome to my channel 🎉🥳 I'm so glad you're here!

[@joanacker917]

I like it much better when you shop at Aldi because that’s where I could go the other stores you go to I don’t have near me

[@ArdentMichelle]

Understood 👍 I mostly shop at Walmart. Do you have one of those nearby?

[@ka6148]

I agree No music You have a nice voice

[@ArdentMichelle]

awe...thanks 😁

[@VictoriaFerland-gu7rb]

Thank you. Music and you soothing voice are both wonderful and balanced. Great ideas. I will be putting quinoa and chick peas on my list. The Ezekiel bread reminded me of my favorite sprouted grain bread that I treat myself to from the health food store. It comes from California. Has a kitty 🐈‍⬛ on the bag. I often use hummus instead of vegan mayo. I really liked how you used avocado 🥑. There’s more I liked. The gizmo for shredding carrots. Looking forward to next week 💚 I made mushrooms onion carrots summer squash and black beans. Served over rice and topped with salsa.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Victoria 😁 You're welcome! I'm so glad you enjoyed this video. Thanks for letting me know! 🥰 I enjoy the feedback. Your meal sounds so tasty!

[@dianetegtmeyer1066]

Yep, your voice ❤ and cooking ideas

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Diane 😁 Thanks for the positive feedback. 🥰

[@ArdentMichelle]

I don't get the voice thing...but I'm glad you like it 😂

[@kristyreal]

Cholula Chipotle hot sauce is our absolute favorite. I've never seen the Tobasco brand or I would try it. Walmart sells chipotle chili pepper in the spice section and I can't make Mexican food without it now. I keep a jar of chipotle peppers in my pantry, too.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 Oh I would love to try the Cholulua Chipotle sauce. We use our chipotle spice in a lot of foods. Love it 👍 I have those chipotle peppers in the pantry too 😂 I think you and I like the same kind of food! 😋

[@Dee-ps3um]

I like your creative cooking!😀

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Dee 😁 I'm so glad you like my video! Thanks for letting me know 🥰

[@Angel-rq3pi]

Hey Michelle. Haven't commented in a while. Loving all your content. And over 31k subs! WOOT. Invest in a good bread maker. Mine can make 2 loaves at a time. So I can make a sweet and savory and have option to make "stuffed" bread (fruit filling, cheese filling, etc.). It's been amazing! No more wasted uneaten bread. And so many choices for flavours. And considerably cheaper than pre-made bread. Mine also makes naan, etc. Keep up the awesome content!!!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Angel 😁 Thanks so much. Glad you are enjoying my content. I will definitely be looking into getting a bread maker in the future when I have more space and money. 😂 I would love to play around with that. You had me at cheese filling. 😂

[@Angel-rq3pi]

​@@ArdentMichellecheese filling...cheese feeling😂

[@colettemcwilliams1325]

Michelle, you should try baking your bread.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Colette 😁 It's on my bucket list.

[@patpeters6331]

@@ArdentMichelle For your 1st attempt, try Irish Soda Bread. Super easy with guaranteed results. No yeast, no rising time needed. Not low carb though.

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@patpeters6331 saving this comment to research later! Thanks for the tip 👍

[@colettemcwilliams1325]

It isn't hard. I know you can do it!

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@colettemcwilliams1325 this is the kind of encouragement I need 😂

[@erinnola-raised6543]

Here in Louisiana Your ‘chayote squash’ is known as mirliton. Many Many grand recipes for!! I always enjoy & learn tips from Your videos & Thank You

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Erin 😁 I haven't talked to you in awhile. Nice to see you again. 😁I remember you telling me about this. I was so shocked that part of the country had already discovered this little gem. Glad you like this video!

[@erinnola-raised6543]

@@ArdentMichelle in Louisiana they’ve been a ‘staple’ since brought from Caribbean in 1804 & grown in backyards here along fences ever since;I imagine people see in stores & just don’t know how to use. Your videos bring to light possibilities with foods unfamiliar to others, Thank You!

[@bookmagicroe9553]

Groceries where you live are way cheaper than here. One cucumber is 99 cents. Red peppers are $1.69 each, for example.

[@ArdentMichelle]

That's about what my Walmart produce prices are. Are those Aldi prices? Where are you?

[@stacyf1354]

I am gluten-free due to having Celiac disease. The gluten-free bread isn't bad. They also have the wraps too.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Stacy 😁 Thanks for sharing!

[@janeulness2119]

Check your dollar tree for bread. Some have the last of the orowheat truck overflow.

[@ArdentMichelle]

nice. I'm about due for a trip to Dollar Tree.

[@missk7001]

You absolutely might adore the quinoa pizza. Soak the raw quinoa in water overnight and cleanse well. Mix it in a smoothie mixer with water, olive oil and water until the consistency is creamy. Pour it into a suitable form lined with lightly oiled baking paper, about 0,8 cm I would guess and bake at 200°C until solid (but not finished). Now you can quickly turn it around and bake for another 10-15 minutes before putting on your preferred toppings for the last 10 minutes. I LOVE sour cream, feta, sage, honey and walnuts ... but there are no limits. You need to eyeball the amount of quinoa depending on your baking dish but the dough isn't complicated, it just needs a slightly creamy consistency and works every single time.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks for sharing this. 😁 I'm saving this to try in the future. 👩‍🍳

[@ginas.6656]

Everything looked so great! Love your videos. Can you post the asian sauce that you put on the quinoa bowl?

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Gina 😁 Glad you like this. Yes, I just posted the original recipes for the asian sauce and also just enough for a bowl. Let me know if you need anything else.

[@pek5117]

Looked great. It's 6°c here right now so definitely soup weather. Those carrots were cheap. Love your videos Michelle.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 I'm so glad you enjoy my videos 🥰 Thanks for letting me know. Yes, that's definitely soup weather 😂 nothing like soup on a cold day!

[@pek5117]

@@ArdentMichelle tomorrow I'll be making that chicken noodle soup with the potato and carrot that was my $1 meal. You could make the same thing with a 'not chicken' stock cube and some of those small noodles and any other vegetables. We also have a french onion soup mix for 45¢ too, a french onion soup is good but it's better home made, takes a long time tho! I think I've seen you make barley soup in a challenge, that could be good for me to make, cheap too.

[@grannyvee5789]

I agree with your other viewer. You do have a lovely voice.

[@ArdentMichelle]

thank you 😁

[@stephaniesilic5446]

This is great and practical

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Stephanie 😁 Glad you like this!

[@Emma.E.Emerson]

Wow!! GREAT Job!!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks Emma 😁 Glad you like this one!

[@YorkshireGirlinDarwin]

Thanks so much ❤️🇦🇺

[@ArdentMichelle]

welcome 😁

[@naty1012]

I love chickpeas in salad with vinegrette too! Had that recently.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Naty 😁 yeah so good and boosts the nutritional value of the salad.

[@sutherlandpetty]

Thanks for sharing your ideas. ❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

You're welcome 😁 Thanks for watching!

[@monicam4738]

All of the gluten free bread I've tried just isn't the same as fresh baked yeasty bread (Aldi included). It is more edible and actually tasty when used for an alternative for things like french toast, grilled cheese sandwiches, or making croutons to top a salad. It's just missing a little something all on its own. Thanks for a week of new ideas!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Monica😁 You're welcome. Glad you like this. Thank you for the feedback on the GF bread!

[@charinnatheirish1800]

That bagel breakfast sandwich looks sooooo good! I'm going to try it soon. I'm going to sub in some fresh Spring mix for the shredded carrot, because I'm not a huge fan of raw carrots, and I'm in love with Spring mix! Awesome video, as always! I love your reduced carb meals. Love and Blessings from WI! 🙂🙂🙂💕💕💕💯💯

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 Glad you like this video! That sounds like a nice swap out. I love spring mix too!

[@erinnola-raised6543]

Mmmm, sandwich upon Sourdough English Muffins nice(though I usually have fresh loaf of French Bread in House)

[@ArdentMichelle]

LOVE French bread too! 💜 Yum!

[@erinnola-raised6543]

@@ArdentMichelle Yes indeed :)

[@brittlife6529]

Not too hot in California right now ?? lol, girl I already feel like I’m dying of heat stroke 😂😂😂😂

[@ArdentMichelle]

Well maybe I should say on the coast. 😂 I'm sure Palm Springs is very hot. Where are you?

[@thelullinthestorm]

For some reason the unexpected shells in your fideo made me giggle lol

[@ArdentMichelle]

I thought it was funny too 😂

[@joyful8072]

You do a great job with the budget challenges however I cannot believe how low your food prices are compared to where I live.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 Thank you. I think I get such good prices on produce because I live in California where most of this stuff is grown. However, I have watched other KZbinrs that have been able to find amazing deals on produce in ethnic stores in New York City. Where are you located?

[@joyful8072]

@@ArdentMichelle Vancouver, Canada

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@joyful8072 oh yes, then your groceries are definitely much higher than mine. 😞 My Canadian viewers are always telling me how much higher groceries are. Ugh...I'm so sorry.

[@joyful8072]

@@ArdentMichelle Thank you. It really sucks. 😒

[@DeterminedDIYer]

lol the frozen bread does have cheddar. ;) it says on the front and in the ingredients list.

[@ArdentMichelle]

correctamundo 😂

[@DeterminedDIYer]

@@ArdentMichelle lol have you seen demolition man? Westley snipes says that.

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@DeterminedDIYer no, but should I watch it? Is it good? I'm always looking for new movies to watch in my downtime.

[@DeterminedDIYer]

@@ArdentMichelle it's a cheesy action movie from the early 90s but I love it lol

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@DeterminedDIYer ok I'm definitely down for that. I love action movies. I've been watching the series Citadel on Amazon Prime. I need the high action distraction from life 😂

[@tanyashaw4678]

I’m new to the channel. Your dishes are rich in veggies. Are you vegetarian? Hope I’m not offending by asking. Love your videos. They are relaxing and give me tons of meal ideas ☺️

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Tanya 😁 First of all, welcome to my channel. I'm so glad you're here 🎉🥳 I'm a vegetarian that sometimes eats meat 😂 but I don't love meat, so it's mostly veggies for me. I'm glad you are enjoying my content. Thanks so much for letting me know 🥰

[@RachRolls]

Hi Michelle- my daughter and I are about to head over to Trader Joe's for the first time to pick up some things inspired by your videos! I've been there before, but she's wanting to try some new foods, and TJs has enough variety to pique her interest, I think. We both have celiac and are largely vegetarian, so it should be a good trip. I keep meaning to ask if you've tried toasting gluten free pasta with this method. In general, I find GF pasta kind of finicky to cook, so I don't experiment much with it. It's also usually ridiculously expensive compared to wheat pasta, of course.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Rachel 😁 Oh fun! Nothing more exciting to me than a trip to Trader Joes 😁 It's like part of my food budget and entertainment budget 😂 I haven't tried toasting the GF pasta yet. If you do, let me know how it turns out. That might be a very good idea to try. It might help the texture. Happy Shopping! 😁

[@claudiamello7684]

Rachel- i have luck with Aldi's brown rice/ quinoa pasta, and it only costs $2-$3. Just cook al dente to avoid over softening.

[@marcialane8235]

I wish I liked chickpeas but I don’t ..it’s a texture thing with me I think..reminds me of Lima bean texture..which I can’t eat either.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Marcia 😁 Is it all beans you don't like? Cannellini beans would have been great in this too!

[@cleo5050]

I'm right there with you. Chickpeas are so good for you but I can't bring myself to liking them cause of the grainy texture. Lima beans too. Canellini beans are great though!

[@angelawossname]

I live with my son and dil, they are both autistic and can't cope with the texture of chickpeas, but they don't mind if they are pureed and added as a thickener for curries or soup, my dil also doesn't mind pureed ones added to mashed sweet potato.

[@marcialane8235]

@@ArdentMichelle I like all other beans

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@marcialane8235 ok got it. 👍

[@Zyxwvutsrq]

I’ve been subscribed to you for a while now and miss when you would include meat/more protein to your videos. A majority of people don’t just eat salads or expensive grains and can’t afford to be picky and be so concerned about ‘net carbs’

[@ArdentMichelle]

HI J M 😁 First of all, thank you so much for being a subscriber. 💜 My channel has always been primarily about what I eat, and I don't eat a lot of meat. I do try to include recipes with meat in some of my videos as a courtesy to my viewers that like to eat meat on a budget. The only thing that has changed on my channel is my discussion of low carb budget options. It's not about being picky- its about being a responsible steward of my health and unfortunately, it's about life and death for many of my viewers that are suffering from diabetes. As a carb lover, I will rejoice for you if this is not a "concern" for you. 🎉🥳 I also make videos of foods I think look delicious or that I want to eat or am in the mood for. Salads and sandwiches were what sounded good to me last week and are typical summer food here in the U.S. Expect to see more of these types of foods in the coming months. Quinoa costs less than meat, but I do understand if you prefer to spend those dollars on meat. Many of my viewers tell me that they adapt my meals to suit their own tastes and use the budget principles that they learn on my channel in their own cooking. Since nobody likes exactly the same things, that seems like the best approach to me. Thanks again for being a viewer. 🥰

[@Sonja...]

Great video. I have never heard or Persian cucumbers are they the same as Lebanese cucumbers? I'm from Australia

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Sonja 😁 And I've never heard of Lebanese cucumbers 😂 but I just looked it up and according to an article in the LA Times, they are one and the same.

[@dawnt5587]

What chili garlic sauce do you use? I just discovered it and I have just went through a whole jar.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Dawn 😁 Huy Fong Chili Garlic Sauce. Yeah I can relate 😂 that stuff makes everything better!

[@janschaffhauser8368]

GF bread is good but expensive.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Jan 😁 Thanks for the feedback on that GF bread.

[@michellelaclair]

glad u back 2 werk

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Onein inone 😁 Glad to be missed. I missed you all too!

[@michellelaclair]

@@ArdentMichelle did you get a new job? That's what I meant.

[@michellelaclair]

I never miss a show

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@michellelaclair ok got it! No, I'm not working outside of KZbin.

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@michellelaclair You'll know if I get a new job. I'll post much less often.

[@marias8007]

So healthy yum

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you like my video 😁

[@razup2323]

The Aldi sliced cheese is not a good deal…it’s 11 slices

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Rachel 😁 Wow, you've found 11 slices for less than $1.89? Where at?

[@charylliss1721]

When I buy avacado now, I buy the mashed avacado in little cups. It gets used up before going bad. Saves me lots of waste. It's also always ripe.

[@ArdentMichelle]

If you have a little more to spend those are great for avocado toast. I've also been wanting to try the frozen avocado. Samsclub was out the last time I was there.

[@rebelkat5412]

Avocados can go in the freezer to use when you need them too!! Toss em in whole!

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@rebelkat5412 Now there's an idea 👍

[@yvonnepalmquist8676]

@@rebelkat5412 I keep forgetting to try this. I buy the individual, too. I haven't had much luck lately with produce. I think my area is still dealing with logistic issues.

[@jillianbrown4789]

I use avocado quite frequently so I now get the squeeze tube. It suits my needs and lasts me about 3 weeks.

[@beckyw9000]

I love the shopping portion of your video so much as you talk about the items and their usefulness, and I love that I know words like “Chana dal” from watching your videos. Getting educated in world culture and nutrition from your videos! Thank you and have a great week!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Becky 😁 I'm so glad you are enjoying my content. Thanks so much for letting me know 🥰 Hope you have a great week too!

[@charlottekearn5185]

Hi Michelle. Another great video. Before I forget i wanted to agree with a subscriber that said she would rather hear your voice than music 🎶. As mentioned before, you have a soothing voice that is so nice to listen to. Back to the food, who says you can't eat well on a budget, you show it certainly can be done. Today's recipes were so colorful and they all looked so delicious. I have almost all these ingredients right now, i will be making that fried egg on bagel today and also that quinoa salad. I too love garbanzo beans so will do that too. Once again, you inspired me.💃💃

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Charlotte 😁 Awe...thanks so much! 🥰 I'm so glad you enjoy my voice. I get tired of hearing my own voice 😂 but I'm glad that it's soothing to some of my viewers. Glad this video has inspired you. Thanks for letting me know and Happy Eating! 👩‍🍳

[@plantloverfreya]

You could try Korean vegetable pancake. Love your videos❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 Yes, Korean pancakes have been on my bucket list for awhile now. Would love to make those. I'm so glad you are enjoying my videos!

[@patricial8255]

Love your videos! I get so happy when I see you uploaded a new one because I get so many ideas. I was wondering if you considered making some shorts with a sauce idea. The sauce can sometimes make all the difference. I feel like I'm a better cook because of you.😊

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Patricia 😁 I'm so glad my videos have been helpful. Thanks so much for letting me know! 🥰 I plan to start doing shorts in the next week or two. I think the KZbin algorithm has been punishing me because I haven't been participating 😂 They are really pushing shorts!

[@yvonnepalmquist8676]

I've been meaning to try that quinoa salad for a while now, but with brown rice instead, since I'm not really a quinoa fan. If anyone has tried it with brown rice instead let me know in a reply. Thank you.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Yvonne 😁 It seems like it would be fine with brown rice. Maybe even better, because it would be a little chewy. 🤔 This has me curious now too! Let me know if you try it.

[@938quilt]

it's strange that I'm thinking no way I'd put shredded carrots on my open face sandwich but I've eaten the same thing but with baby carrots on the side LOL! nd it works so...

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Susanna 😁 I know. It totally sounds weird 😂

[@stacel1972]

for 20$ I love that you are eating such colorful and healthy food!🌈 I like to do challenges like this as a form of culinary calisthenics. 😁

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Stace 😁 I love that expression "culinary calisthenics". That's exactly what this is 😂

[@CathieG]

Oooh I love all of the colorful foods! 🤩😍 I’ll be thinking of you today when I go to Trader Joe’s to get more of the canned eggplant 🥰😋

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Cathie 😁 Glad you like my meals. I found them visually appealing also. Have fun at Trader Joes.

[@rebeccanotch1202]

If you don't have to eat gluten free for health reasons then I would say skip gluten free bread all together. It is not good at all unless you make it yourself. My son and I were both diagnosed with celiac a couple a years ago and bread, and crackers, have been the 2 items that we've never been able to find a truly delicious replacement for, and we've tried everything we've come across. It's all just bad. :)

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Rebecca 😁 Thanks for the input. So are you enjoying the homemade GF bread that you're making?

[@lindawilson290]

As always, AM, I really enjoyed this video. Such colorful concoctions! I especially appreciate that you showed us how you slice just one slice of an avocado. I could never do that without decimating the entire avo! BTW, how do you cover and store an already-cut avocado so that it doesn't oxidize? ~ I wasn't aware that you'd landed another job. Congrats! Are you in the same field? ~ Have a good week.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Linda 😁 Glad you like this video. I didn't get another job. I'm just doing KZbin now. Although that might change in a few months. 😞 I cover the avocado with cling wrap and it stays perfect in the fridge.

[@lindawilson290]

@@ArdentMichelle Thanks for the Avocado tip, and good luck with your job search. Meanwhile, we are enjoying your twice-weekly videos immensely!

[@effiecross2008]

Anybody that is interested in that chayote squash, try looking it up on KZbin. There are tons of videos on how to grow it, and you can start it from the ones you buy in the grocery store. They are supposed to make huge vines, and be easy to grow(at least I know they're supposed to be easy in warm weather areas.) I've currently got a couple sprouting right now. I'm determined that this year is the year I'm finally going to get one planted! Michelle you are one of my very favorite KZbinrs! I always feel like I learn so much, and I know what you're doing has helped a lot of people. Thank you for all the work I'm sure must go in to making these videos!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Effie 😁 Awe...thanks so much for the kind words 💜 I'm so glad you are enjoying my videos. Growing squash is so rewarding because it grows so easily and produces a lot. I wish I could grow some where I'm at. I could easily turn this into a homestead channel 😂

[@jeanineruby]

Hi - your recipe ideas and grocery shopping hauls are so welcome! I'm getting divorced, separated now, so the money coming in has dropped in half. These budget meals look so good and I am making some of them. We don't have a Walmart close by, but we do have a great Dollar Tree, plus a couple other major chain grocery stores. Even if I spend $30 a week, I'll be ahead! Thank so much.

[@ArdentMichelle]

You're welcome 😁 I'm so glad my videos are helpful. I appreciate you letting me know. These are the kinds of comments that I love 🥰

[@martahagenhoyer9165]

Smoked Paprika with some salt and pepper are also good on Chickpeas - one of my favorite snacks too. The way you cooked the pasta is how I make pilaf - toast the pasta, then add rice and bulgar and chicken bouillon. I wish I could get cilantro for 33 cents - never seen it lower than 50 cents, but that is rare now! The last bunch I bought was 99 cents.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 yes, I agree on the smoked paprika. So good 👍 yeah I get GREAT deals on produce at ethnic markets. My main market is a Persian market, but I've seen super cheap produce at the Hispanic and Korean markets also.

[@angelawossname]

We got a couple of chayotes in a budget box a couple of weeks ago, we really liked them and we had never tried them before. I totally hear you when you say making meals from whatever is on sale, we do the same thing with our budget boxes.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Angela 😁 I just tried them myself for the first time last year. I had no idea what those little things were when I first saw them 😂 I'm still looking forward to obtaining a food box from the food pantry to do a video on. I need to call them and try to arrange it.