What to eat when all you have is a microwave?

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[@charylliss3741]

Oh thank you thank you! As a senior citizen with Lupus, I don't cook the same as I used to. I find microwave cooking to be a big help ( minimize my fatigue)

[@DollarTreeDinners]

I hope you get some new meal ideas that are helpful!

[@venom74799]

I’m praying for relief from your lupus!!

[@charylliss3741]

@@venom74799 thank you ❣️

[@mariaTsounakis1521]

Yes! Me too. She is the best!

[@debeckersley3850]

I was just getting ready to do grocery shopping. You practically read my mind! Budget limit, needs to be health-minded, and flavorful. Check! Thank you!😊

[@SuziQ1953]

I’m an RN and minored in nutrition. You did a great job, Rebecca.

[@DollarTreeDinners]

I appreciate that so much!

[@debranielsen2002]

I am a terrible cook (I just don’t enjoy it) and I work horrendous hours. I have gotten so many good ideas from you that I can actually handle - including financial ones. Keep it up! 👍🏻

[@janiceh4521]

I personally don’t think you need to worry about length of introduction bc it tell us everything you took in to consideration in allowing the preparation. To me it’s very helpful

[@aylasaurus]

Oh, pre-chopping the ham steak with the veggies for the microwave scrambles is GENIUS -- hubby LOVES those little just crack an egg cups, I'm doing this instead from now on!

[@DollarTreeDinners]

So good!

[@mariaTsounakis1521]

So much healthier too!!

[@jimmiepatrum]

@@DollarTreeDinners I will be making the egg bowls from now on. I've been buying them, but you've shown me just how easy they are to make...plus they are bigger and more economical. Thanks ever so much. Diane

[@PopFizzPaperDani]

Same!

[@seabliss22]

Your videos are so thoughtful. I'd like to suggest that you should save the ends of your onions, celery, peppers etc.. the stuff you normally throw away. Put them in a baggie and freeze them. Next time you are boiling off a carcass, add the frozen ends. Strain when finished and now your broth is flavored with no extra cost.

[@hello-vs4me]

For 3 people

[@seabliss22]

@@hello-vs4me I don't understand your reply

[@susieramick7202]

Yes, flavor and nutrients added.

[@webdarling]

I do this all the time, amazing how much extra flavor it adds to your homemade broth!

[@five_pennies]

I never thought of trying to make chicken broth from scratch in a microwave. You're so thoughtful in how you put these ideas together and how to wring every last bit of value out of the money you spend. Tip from someone who went to culinary school, you can reuse bones to make 2 batches of stock! The second won't be *as* flavorful but still perfectly good to use as a soup base, or to cook beans or other veggies in.

[@CHSwildcats19]

I didn't know that! Thanks so much for that helpful information 😊

[@mariapagan7786]

I LOVE SEASONED BLACK BEANS WITH MICROWAVED WHITE RICE LIKE I SAID I WORK AT DOLLAR TREE GET PAID DOLLAR TREE WAGES SO I HAVE TO SPEND meagerly NONETHELESS WITH THOSE SIDES I’LL TAKE SOME STEAKUMS THE FROZEN PEPPERS AND ONIONS SEASONED WITH THE LIME GARLIC SEASONING DOLLAR TREE HAS PUT THAT ON FLOUR TORTILLAS AND I’VE GOT BLACK BEANS AND RICE WITH FAJITAS SO YUMMY

[@graceramos8709]

The dollar tree flour tortillas are soooo good! They taste authentic!

[@chrism1102]

​@@graceramos8709Yep. They're a DT Gem.

[@angelaschaefer5883]

That sounds really good thank you.

[@erikamendelson5108]

Our budget is $50/ week for 2 adults. We have a huge garden ( I can, freeze and dehydrate a lot) and chickens. I also frequent salvage grocers when in town. I also set aside $5/ week for bulk buying. I buy rice, beans or larger packs of ground beef and repackage every month or 6 weeks. It really helps stretch our budget.

[@angelaschaefer5883]

Those are great ideas. It is just my husband and myself. So your tip will save me money. Our son is grown and living on his own.

[@dianegordon9743]

Love the idea of using bagged salad in a wrap. Never thought of that. I am using that idea.

[@DollarTreeDinners]

It’s so easy and definitely a go to for me

[@brandiblair9398]

Just an idea on the salad wraps to prevent the soggy. Prep the first wraps and then put the second day salad in the fridge without wrapping it first. Put in the wraps just before eating so the tortillas are still fresh. When looking at salad kits, I tend to veer towards cabbage based "chopped" salad kits since they are a bit sturdier in the fridge.

[@vikiwalters8767]

Another creater I watch actually cooks them and serves them over rice or noodles and calls it a warm salad and I'd NEVER considered that! These things are super versatile apparently

[@kirsty916]

You make such a good point about things like grating cheese. I have hypermobile joints in my thumbs and shoulders - most days, I struggle with holding onto or gripping things. Something as simple as a bag of grated cheese makes a world of difference.

[@treatsntrinkets]

When I was in college, I lived off campus, didn't have a meal plan or a kitchen, just a mini fridge and a microwave. Boil in a bag rice was my holy Grail food. It was cheap, easy, and I could pair it with anything. My favorite was those bags of microwavable Indian dishes because they were shelf stable, though idk how affordable they are these days.

[@mariaTsounakis1521]

Great ideas! I am disabled and have been having difficulty physically cooking so this gave me some new ideas that I could implement! Thank you for all that you do!!

[@YamatoForever]

I lived in a basement apartment and had no access to a stove. I used a crock pot and a Foreman grill along with a microwave. Virginia here as well. Augusta County. I have to drive 20 minutes to get to a grocery store (Food Lion), Walmart is 30+ minute drive. So I feel your pain.

[@realong2506]

My daughter buys the ribs like those at ALDI and makes her own McRib sandwiches for her family all the time. It's a cheap aternative to getting fast food for her famuly of five.

[@erika021]

I agree on making the potato chips in the microwave, not worth the hassle. I go with baking chickpeas with seasoning. Super easy and helps with the crunch I love.

[@DollarTreeDinners]

Haha it was an experience for sure

[@kimsmith819]

Oh, im going to have to try that out.

[@erika021]

@@kimsmith819 I just saw there was a recipe to do it with black beans too. I just add a couple cans to my shopping list.

[@hopehasty5039]

Something I've started cooking in the microwave is pasta! For all of the dry pastas I've tried (spaghetti, elbow macaroni, rotini, etc), I use about 1/3 less water than the package says (if it's something I'm going to drain afterwards), and microwave on High for the same number of minutes the package says to boil on the stove. I had a boyfriend years ago who each week prepped his bowtie pasta, chopped peppers & onions, and cooked chicken, all in separate bowls in the fridge. With one jar each of marinara sauce and alfredo, he could make a couple different weeknight meals pretty quickly! 😊

[@michaelortega6618]

when i was in my first year of college with just a minifridge, a microwave, and one small knife, i learned a lot about microwave cooking!! some of my advice: - knowing how long your microwave takes to boil water is a super good metric to have - if you invest in a large (ideally ceramic) bowl, you can make a lot of boxed meals (i've made a whole box kraft mac in mine!) - tofu is usually cheap, super versatile, has a ton of nutrients and a good amount of protein. usually folks are afraid to try it, but it can be really tasty-- pressing it well and adding it to scrambled eggs adds some bulk to a meal - canned veggies are a good and easy way to add nutrients that don't take up a lot of room. if your store has a discount section, there are usually dented cans back there that are still perfectly good - steaming things in the microwave is pretty easy! put a little water in with whatever you're steaming and put a plate over the top (i don't recommend this for two plastic dishes, they might seal shut!) - hot sauce is a good investment if you have a spice tolerance, if you have an edible but bad tasting dish, just douse that bad boy in tapatio and it should be more pleasant to eat - if you are able to, with a bag of flour, sugar, vegetable/canola oil, baking powder/baking soda, and (imitation) vanilla extract, you can make a lot of half-decent desserts. these also last a long time-- i'm still working through a bag of flour i got a year ago (i'm only in my second year of college lol) - rewards programs! sign up for every store. it's a bit of a pain in the ass, but it can really swoop in and save you sometimes. my local grocery store is safeway, and according to the app, i've saved $181 since i got it last september! - if you are very careful and have a steady hand, you can actually boil eggs in the microwave. wash a thumbtack with dish soap to sterilize, then carefully poke a hole on the top. get a mug, put some water in, and pre-boil it in the microwave (with no egg), 3 minutes usually does it. to the mug, add a lot of salt and a generous pinch of baking soda. use a spoon to place the egg in,, then microwave it again for 3-4 minutes. let it sit in the water until it's cooled (alternatively, if you want a soft boiled egg, take it out of the water with the spoon and place it in an ice bath, or just in your refrigerator)

[@user-og4iq6yc7c]

Hey Rebecca. I specifically love your channel because you don't talk about the other stores and you only focus your channel on the dollar stores. It sets you apart from all the other creators. !!!!!!! You're amazing!!!!!!! Never stop. Go with your gut

[@DollarTreeDinners]

Thank you so much!!

[@apriltownsend8463]

She actually does more than just Dollar Tree

[@user-og4iq6yc7c]

@@apriltownsend8463 reread my comment. There's more than one dollar store. There's also Dollar general.

[@kayceeess5474]

Not usually.. dollar general is still considered a cheap store​@@apriltownsend8463

[@shaniya3847]

She does more than dollar tree and no need to down other creators to uplift another one.

[@judithrichardson8213]

A little tip for making microwave scrambled eggs, if you like them light and fluffy, is add a teaspoon of cold water per egg that you are cooking, and a small bit of butter or margarine, and cook for 20 seconds. Then whisk them, put back in for another 20 seconds, whisk again, and continue doing that till they look ALMOST fully cooked, the exact times will depend on your microwave wattage and the number and size of eggs you are cooking.. By taking the eggs out while they look slightly under cooked, but almost done, they continue cooking once removed, and by the time you have plated up and put the bowl in for washing up, the eggs will have finished setting up, and be soft and fluffy. The first couple of times you take them out to whisk, they will look as if nothing has happened, but by doing this any little bits that are starting to form get mixed in and the over all look and taste are well worth the extra work, which is actually not that much. I love mine served on hot buttered toast, delicious. Much love and respect from the South East of England. xx

[@ggjr61]

I think this is a great subject. I remember when microwaves first hit the home market and a lot of people thought most people would only use the microwave. If you look around thrift store sometimes you can find old microwave cookbooks from the era.

[@melodychristian974]

Rebecca, just an FYI… You could have taken some of the broccoli with cheese and added it to a baked potato and that would have made you another meal! It is actually very good with a little salt and pepper!

[@eathomelive]

Stealing this idea!

[@jimmiepatrum]

Wendy's used to sell a baked potato with cheese sauce...so yummy. Not sure if they do now or not. Diane ps - it has to be cheaper to make it yourself, though.

[@rangerannie5636]

I love baked potatoes with melted cheese & salsa!

[@rebekahhansen1112]

My sons really liked the baked potatoes, broccoli with cheese sauce when they were little. Still do

[@heatherbauer2387]

I discovered your channel, and I love every video you put out. Whether it's Dollar Tree, DG, Food Lion, or anywhere else, I will watch. The care you take to research and plan your meals is wonderful. I love that you are trying to please everyone's request and dieting needs. I live in a bustling city with every grocery chain possible. I've found myself recently buying groceries from the Dollar Tree that i never had to see if i could recreate your meals. I have a 10 year old daughter, and she loves your shorts and crumble cookie recipes. We are major fans!!!

[@karengilsdorf9753]

❤

[@GG-uk3dn]

This was a great idea! Not just non “cooking” options ( except micro) but showcasing budget friendly meals in stores other than dollar tree. Just offers a greater variety of food options to work with ( meats, produce). Love your channel! It must be very time consuming-but appreciate the obvious thought and care you put into what you do.😊 Youre an enjoyable watch- interesting, educational, nice presentation/easy instruction.👍🏻 Thanks

[@Cresanova]

That "instant chicken stock" is a genius idea, definitely stealing that!

[@DollarTreeDinners]

It worked so well!

[@eathomelive]

I had no idea you could make it that way. I always have the crockpot on for 8 hours If I can even remember to use the carcass for stock.

[@mariaTsounakis1521]

Yes!! I never thought of that!!

[@PopFizzPaperDani]

Me too!

[@alphadog3384]

Wonderful idea about microwave chicken stock.

[@Tamara_D]

I cook my rice in the microwave. (Not the made for microwave stuff). 1c rice, 1 3/4c water. Microwave high 5 minutes, stir, microwave at 50% for 10min. Perfect everytime. I use a quart dish (high sides). Great job on this video. Definitely doesn't give the impression you're eating from a microwave. 🎉 👍

[@samedifference]

Thank you sooooooo much for the Denver omelet 'hack'- as someone who has recently become disabled and finds it harder than ever to cook, I bought pre chopped peppers and onions, a pack of thin sliced ham, a bag of spinach & a carton of egg whites- and managed to make myself a scramble with the little energy i have. Bless you for thinking of us microwave needing folks!!

[@bethk.3340]

you are my favorite youtuber! everytime you upload i get a huge smile on my face. you've helped me cut down on my family food budget and put more into our savings, thank you SO much for that! my husband and i want to bulk up our savings before we have our first child so this is SO helpful. you're amazing!

[@The3Storms]

Yes, yes. Love you for remembering accessibility. For many people it’s just a sometimes thing like when the oven needs repairs/ they’re in a motel or a temporary illness, but plenty of people live it every day for years.

[@dharma6481]

Wow! Impressive week with only a microwave! This would be very helpful for people in long term hotels or dorm rooms. I love rotisserie chickens and always make stock - but never in microwave! That was faster than a pressure cooker, I will have to give it a try when I’m in a time pinch.

[@lorilxn1597]

My grandson got a job at the new DollarTree/Family Dollar store in my small town, they put up shelves yesterday and today and will be stocking the shelves soon. The store opens on the 14th😊 👏👏👏

[@nancycarney]

Well Done. $50 a week is practical with what you were working with. I have an Oster counter top oven that is an air fryer, toaster, convection and does all the regular oven functions. Found on clearance for $120 3 years ago when my oven went out. Love it. Great for 2 people.

[@jimmiepatrum]

I'm thinking about buying a counter top oven with the features you mentioned. Do you find that all the functions work well? Diane

[@bonitagoodwin5086]

My husband was a manager of a grocery store for a very long time. The vendors have to pay extra money to get the preferred shelves , which is eye level to about waste level.

[@terrypettas9537]

Oh Rebecca, I live in Australia and don’t have any of these stores, but that meal plan was magnificent, thank you for putting in all the effort you do. I’m sure it helps lots of people, including me on the other side of the world, much ❤ Terry

[@stillhuntre55]

Yes! I'm from Western Canada and just bought a dozen eggs yesterday for $9.00.... so not all the savings translate to my country - but the IDEAS are gold!! Totally has changed how I shop!

[@dannieros3]

Thank you so much. I’m chronically ill and don’t know how to cook but I can microwave stuff lol so this is helpful

[@spicycopper2436]

I don't use my microwave much except for warming up food. Now, I will try making Chicken Stock & scramble eggs. I always learn something from you. Many Thanks!!!

[@eathomelive]

Those egg bowls were genius!

[@gardeniagirl1374]

I have been in a wheelchair before. It is true that we often only have access to the items on the middle shelf. Also, it can be difficult to hold items in your lap when you are using a wheelchair, so I get small items because they are easier to hold than large things are. Thank you for remembering us who have used wheelchairs before.

[@sarahrossiter8537]

This is so helpful for days when mental illness is bad, to still eat healthy while having minimal roadblocks thank you so much!

[@SuziQ1953]

No two bags of potatoes are alike. ❄️ I love this analogy 😂

[@LolliMolly09]

I love how you semi-prepped for the egg bowls. I always want to buy those bowls because they're so convenient, but I never do because I just can't justify the cost. Your way takes a little time and ends up being just as convenient. Thanks!!! Before my grandma passed away she'd mostly switched to having us bring her food or using the microwave because she was terrified of falling while cooking and starting a fire. She wasn't quite internet savvy enough to have come across videos like this, but I know a LOT of people like her are and your videos will be such a life saver for them.

[@user-uz8by3wi3s]

OMG I’m so excited!!!! Thank you so much for this! Im a college student, and myself and my friends will benefit us so much!

[@squisitissima2810]

Hey there! Love your content! For the salad wraps, you could make two without the dressing. Divide the dressing in half, putting half into a little cup. The second day, you can just dip your wrap in the dressing. It solves the soggy bottom problem.

[@hopehasty5039]

I love that idea! Or if you have something to securely close the 2nd half of the dressing packet, you could just leave it in that and drizzle it on the 2nd day wraps!❤

[@natasha8658]

Love the sharing of the meal plan!

[@DollarTreeDinners]

Thank you!! 😊

[@coleenburgess6689]

I just want to thank you for showing us that it's possible. The fact that you actually prepare and eat what you are suggesting is to be commended, like practicing what you preach. Also your review at the end of what worked, what you liked and what you'd change is so helpful. I learned some great tips from this video that I will definitely use!! Awesome job!!

[@russemerson1358]

We live in an RV with a very small refrigerator and a microwave. I’m loving all your ideas and they hardly take up much room!

[@shawgeasland2096]

Oh my gosh!! Thank you!!!! I hert my knee 2 years ago and after working 10 hours a day, my knee is killing me. Some days just the thought of standing at the stove to cook dinner makes me want to cry. I have been opting for something I can throw in the oven without too much prep or a microwave dinner. I don't think microwave dinners have enough veggies and are way too salty, but what's a person to do.

[@EmilyGOODEN0UGH]

When making your salad wraps assembly style, add the ingredients in backwards order: dressing first and fold to smear, then sprinkle cheese, then add the greens and you will have the goodies all around the lettuce. The Banquet meats WERE a lot bigger a few years ago. A cool trick with them - you can usually whack it on the edge of the counter and break off two portions at a time. :D And I agree, meatloaf has ketchup, once you put brown gravy on it, it becomes salsbury steak. The Banquet chicken patties in tomato sauce is one of my favorites, but don't count on having enough sauce for your pasta.

[@dawng.8836]

I make sandwiches with the chicken patties

[@DollyJohanne]

Hi! I am disabled and have other health issues, so I about only use the microwave. I also have a water heater and a soup maker, but most of my meals are made in the microwave. I eat pretty healthy and my tips both for the microwave and other meals for the are: Breakfast: oatmeal made in the microwave. I make it with shredded carrot, banana, oats, cinnamon, sweetener, chia seed mix, and soy milk (allergies here). I top with frozen berries (both on coupons or free from a neighbor), and the rest of the banana. For dinner and so on: I meal prep different veggies with a steamer both for the microwave for $5 for several years ago. I steam things like: regular potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli, green beans, edamame, mushrooms, and zucchini, and make components that I have separate in my fridge for both dinner and other meals. I use things like seitan, and tofu cold with the other ingredients, but you can heat them a little bit. I also eat some fake chicken bites or frozen precooked burgers bought on coupons some times. I often add on colds things like salad, cucumber, tomatoes, red bell peppers (fun fact: here in Norway the red ones are the cheapest, and the green are way more expensive 😂), avocado and corn from a can (we actually don’t have frozen corn that assessable here in Norway, only in mixed veggies, or very expensive). I love mustard as my “sauce”, since I don’t like sauce or dressings that much. Sometimes I use some soy sauce. I also add spices. Other meals and snacks are things like grapes, cherry tomatoes, bananas and when berries and melons are in season for a good price I use that. Dried (unsweetened) fruits are also a good one. I also eat yoghurt with more berries, bananas or even with some steamed sweet potatoes with cinnamon on top. I most say that I often eat the same components in my dinner, or other meals, but I love it so I don’t care 🤣🙈😋 I use sales, coupons and “short days shelf’s” a lot. I for the most part only use a knife, cutting board, a peller, and a shredder (for my carrots). It is possible to make healthy, economical, and delicious foods in a easy way with few tools. I even only have a under the counter fridge, but I do have a under the counter freezer as an extra, and that helps a lot. Thank you for making and sharing this! You are very creative and a good inspiration ❤ Love from Johanne, Norway 🇳🇴

[@vikiwalters8767]

I love that you do these so much. Not everyone has the same access or energy levels and you still provide inexpensive options that provide some nutrition.

[@sandradorsey5001]

Would like to see you do a 📸 video on $100.00 a month meal's. Thank's 🎉

[@countrycutie3263]

I work in the deli at the Food Lion here, the meal deal is something that is always there so it's not going to change from week to week. Every now and then it may change as to what protein you can get, but the deal itself is always available.

[@DollarTreeDinners]

That is so helpful to know thank you!

[@greenidentity]

As a person who struggles with eating and chronic illness, this was so helpful. Though I’m not on a strict budget I do struggle with cooking and food choices. Who knew you could make chicken stock in the microwave? Also I could make a meal out of the potato, cheese, beans and Cole slaw alone. I also always forget that sometimes it’s okay to just have peanut butter toast for a small breakfast. I always end up making eggs because I can’t think of anything else.

[@jacquespoulemer3577]

Rebecca, Mike and Microwavers. My Mother-in-Law has no oven so everytime we would go for an extended visit I would always make them a cake. From Scratch I would make Chiffon cake from the Joy of Cooking (recipe online) but boxed cake mixes also do well in the microwave. it tends no to cook in the center so you need to put a glass in the middle of the microwave safe dish (Round works best, corners tend to overcook) Cupcakes also work well (there is also a special gizmo one can buy) Just in case you may need 😉(or want ) a cake that particular week) Apples AND Bananas are also yummy. Fry some apples in butter, spice to taste and freeze with bananas and you can make an apple-banana ice cream. Bananas are often used as an ice cream base instead of milk or cream. Frozen bananas and other fruits last in the freezers for up to a year if well wrapped, but it's so yummy they won't make it that long. Great Job Rebecca I'm sure your suggestions will help a lot of folks out there. All the Best to everyone. Jim Mexico

[@jennifercarr5364]

For another dinner you could do a baked potato with the egg scramble ingredients and maybe chicken and cheese

[@DollarTreeDinners]

Oh that’s a great one!

[@raffinataonline]

For the potato chips, just put potatoes on parchment (no oil) and then flip.

[@QueenOfTheNorth65]

That Smokehouse Salad Kit looks very good. And the Banquet ribs taste like McDonalds McRib, which I love. So if you like those, you’ll like the Banquet ribs. And those wraps have given me some great ideas for my husband’s work lunches. He gets tired of sandwiches and leftovers. Thanks!❤️

[@kakylong2]

Rebecca, Great video. I love how you work so hard for the content you bring. Your love for what you do & how you try to help people is amazing. Keep up the outstanding work you do. 😊

[@OZARKMOON1960]

Only the local grocery store and Walmart deliver. Add that to only $64 in food stamps and having trouble standing up - well, it makes for challenging meal planning without resorting to junk. Your channel gives me lots of ideas and as soon as the (now broken) microwave is replaced, I'm going to try several of them.

[@tanishahogan9396]

Chicken broth in the microwave is pretty clever! Fruit and veggies are great snacks...especially heading into spring and summer.

[@jessicacarter-xw5bo]

These ideas were good. Thank you. Sometimes I use plain yogurt instead of sour cream. Depends on how much money is in my budget.

[@KateDosterVideos]

Thank you for doing this Rebecca - hardly any creators think about their audiences' additional struggles like physical limitations. You're the best.

[@BunnieHuxtable]

You can always dry toss your salad and divide the dressing into individual sauce pods-that way it’s always fresh but still prepped.

[@scook5599]

In regard to less expensive products being on the top or bottom shelves, it is a product placement issue. Brand name manufacturers pay for shelf space in order to make their products more visible. I get it, it can be a problem for seniors, the disabled and short shoppers, but has been that way for as long as I can remember. I am very short and can't reach the top shelf.

[@teacherinrecovery]

Same! I'm 5'1.5" I've gotten used to climbing shelves when no one is looking 😂

[@mfarley252]

Thank you for putting the screenshot-able menu!! That is a great idea! This all looks so good!

[@mcimon91]

Great ideas! I live alone and find I have no patience to take an hour to cook dinner when I get home so these options are great!

[@kathleendonnelly6077]

One thing I appreciate about you is that you are inclusive and make videos for people in different situations. This helps me as I am not much of a cook and it gives me an easier way to prepare things.

[@JessEllinVlogs]

Hi Rebecca, this is especially why I love your channel, we currently don't have a stove/oven and only work with microwave, airfryer or slow cooker so these are the best! plus I can't cook "normally" due to disabilities because I can't stand for long watching food etc. So I really do appreciate these, is it possible to get recipes using more things like beef mince/ground beef and beef in general when you're not working to such a strict budget? thanks again

[@vivienmartin225]

I’m lucky enough to have a full kitchen but I do have to restrict my spending as a broke law student. Your channel is not only so helpful but also stress relieving for me. You are such a calming presence and entertaining. Thank you for what you do!

[@bindiboo1]

I'm in the UK and I love watching your videos. We do have Poundland in the UK and they sell food but it's not cheap enough to buy , the supermarket would be cheaper. I'm jealous that in America you have all these different dollar places to buy decent food from.

[@brandiblair9398]

Having seen UK creators who do similar content to Becca, your prices on veg and staples at Aldi and Asda are much lower than in the states. Certain staple budget foods like halloumi and puff pastry are completely unaffordable here. Cardiff.mum and beatthebudget both have good ideas although they don't do microwave prep. Just Deano did the 20£ Asda meal week as a non cooker and the recipes looked amazing.

[@brandiescott6294]

Thank you so much for this. I only have access to a microwave and toaster over and my access to water is limited too. I work full time and have an illness that makes me very fatigued often so this was so inclusive for people like me.

[@michellesunshinestar]

I love baked beans, and a baked potato, never thought to combine the two. I've been making fried egg on a toasted English muffin, with a slice of American cheese (the cheese slices), sometimes bacon. I could eat that every day for the rest of my life.

[@susanjane4784]

We meal prep a week's worth of wraps separately. The filling in one bento box section or container, the veggies in another, and the tortilla as well. This way we can heat the tortilla and/or chicken if we want. The salad idea is cool, but thinly sliced bell pepper and shredded carrots work better after 7 days in the fridge. Keep in mind that the dressing can make a wrap with the same fillings completely different -- sesame ginger for Asian, ranch for that familiar zing, even 1000 Island which is my favorite.

[@monikarodziewicz3486]

Thank you so much for the video , living in South Africa with power outage , this really helps sometimes I get 25 min to cook

[@yesi5876]

Thanks for doing this video. I’m a long haul truck driver and it’s hard to cook meals on the truck without a stove or oven. I do have a hot plate but sometimes after a long day I just want to make something easy in the microwave and call it a night. Looking forward to more of ur cooking videos

[@kimw4324]

This is perfect! More videos like this please! This would be so great for anyone going on vacation for a week and only having a microwave in your room

[@MissIsis1111]

That soup impressed me so much. Making soup intimidates me. But this....this looks so easy !! Thank you for that !!

[@sya286]

I have to say, I’m blessed to be financially a little more comfortable. But I still learn so much here. I hate the waste and this teaches me how to cut back and be thoughtful

[@bubblegumplastic]

This is such a nice comment

[@Aprilmomlife]

Dang I wish there was a food lion near me 😂😂 they got some good sales!

[@EmilyGOODEN0UGH]

Don't wish too hard. The regular prices are NOT good.

[@kagb86]

The sale prices used to be the regular prices. Food Lion has Publix prices now and it seems most things that go on "sale" are their Food Lion products. I try to shop at Aldi as much as I can.

[@beccay4750]

This is great. I really hope the person who posted the original question is doing well and sees what a fantastic job you did.

[@Missy_Marie12]

Thank you! this really helps me to show my Dad how to microwave cook bc he’s senior & lives alone & he doesn’t really know how to stove cook & this gives him ideas he can use to cook meals in the microwave. I didn’t even know they sold ribs in the banquet selections. I also bought a microwaveable spaghetti/pasta pot & love it bc he can cook pasta now in the microwave. It works beautifully!!

[@jillgott6567]

I enjoy any video you put out. Because, even if it isnt anything I can make it still inspires me to be creative with my meals. This shop is filled with veg and pritein I love it

[@rivahcat8247]

The Banquet ribs make a great substitute for Mickey D's rib sandwiches, if you're into those. Food Lion used to be about the only store choice around here (I'm also in VA) until we got Kroger, Publix, Aldi and Lidl several years ago, but I find that the best usable sales for me are consistently at FL. Microwave cooking is frequently overlooked as a real method of cooking as opposed to just heating; I worked for an appliance distributor in the late 70s when microwave ovens became mainstream, and I still have several microwave cookbooks with quite good recipes. I always enjoy your creativity with food!

[@eathomelive]

It's so good to see a video from you! I was worried. Glad your back. You made great meals for the budget. I never see prices like that around here. Not even at Walmart. Those salads are $4.00 each here. My husband and I have them a lot for dinner topped with Tyson fried chicken strips. I am going to try the wraps. That makes for a nice change. It is also nice to see how to make full meals in the microwave, especially with hot weather coming up.

[@minalsalam2426]

If you dont have a microwave setting for potatoes and are worried about if they will be done or not , poke with a fork as she did in the video and if you have some cling wrap on hand . Tightly wrap the potato and cook for seven minutes . They always turn out perfect for me . Coming from a person with only a microwave also . I hope this helps .

[@KatieoftheHouse]

Your ideas are so genius! I’ve never seen anyone make chicken stock in the microwave. I’m going to try that for sure. Thanks!

[@kathyclarke6327]

I bought those ribs to make “ mock” McRib. I was surprised how small they are 😢. Never thought to do a slider one🤔

[@DollarTreeDinners]

They are quite small, so I think sliders are perfect or two pieces on sandwich bread should also be perfect

[@The3Storms]

@@DollarTreeDinners plus you already had slaw, which is often good on meat sliders.

[@DollarTreeDinners]

Yes! I didn’t even think about that! 😀😀😀

[@chrisharmon5453]

Our microwave broke a year ago right after I got an air fryer. 😕I have literally zero counter space (100 year old two room former hunting cabin) so use a buffet in my living room/bedroom space as prep space and for appliances. Since we didn’t use it a lot and space was at a premium I didn’t replace it. But leftovers get really hard to do sometimes without one. No dishwasher so every time I have to cook it requires dishes. And again. Zero counter space. Luckily it’s a big sink. That all being said my son (20, voted against replacing it last year) just a couple of days ago said he’d like to have a microwave again. I’ve been unemployed since Xmas and start my new job next Monday. Once I catch up a bit financially (which your cooking and shopping ideas help with thank you so much) I’ll get a new one. Maybe just to try and make chicken stock in that was genius 👏👏👏👏👏🤓

[@chriswithers8835]

Have you ever made meals with the emergency dehydrated ingredients they sell at Walmart and other places? I've seen diced chicken, ground meat. Black bean burger mix, etc. The upfront cost would be high, but the per meal price could be quite low depending on the recipe. I've only used the dehydrated mixed vegetables in pot pies, etc. So they soak up broth for flavor. The thought came to mind when you said limited storage/refrigerator/freezer space.

[@Tuesdayswithmeowry]

Thanks for this video. While i do have access to more than a microwave, some days you're so drained that you need a super easy, low prep option. It never would have crossed my mind to make stock in the microwave or use the salad bags for wraps.

[@DollarTreeDinners]

Glad it was helpful! I also use meals like this when I just want something quick and low energy

[@lanedaw811]

Always ask for a rain check when the store runs out of a product, they will usually issue them.

[@christinearrand8208]

Especially asked for rain checks on sale items then you can go back later in the month and get them for the sale item price

[@christinearrand8208]

Nifty trick my mom taught me look for items that are on sale that are already sold out ask for rain checks and get them later when they're back in stock

[@christinearrand8208]

I'm kid number seven of 13 and that is not a typo. We ate whatever was on sale for most of our lives

[@kaelynnmartin6521]

I wish our store still did rain checks. They did away with them during Covid because of supply chain issues

[@wandamontgomery6030]

How were the ribs,?

[@marcialane8235]

You got so much for that budget! Bravo.

[@Tbird1549]

Manufacturers actually pay for the product placement so that is why the cheaper versions are on the top or bottom. If people don’t like that complain to the manufacturers and you might get coupons off their products at least. We use the microwave in between the oven/ air fryer meals but our kitchen is sort of on the small size. Great menu ideas as always!

[@PasadenaGrandma]

I actually came here to make the same comment about manufacturers paying for product placement. It is definitely not the stores trying to cheat anyone.

[@kimbathurston2705]

This is so helpful thank you! I wonder for the salad wraps maybe leaving the dressing off and then having it in a container to dip the wrap while you eat it so it doesn't get soggy? Great ideas!

[@itslauramichelle992]

⚠️ IDEA ALERT ⚠️ What about a segment on quick lunches and snacks. For me it would be for "remote" work from home perspective... but absolutely applies for stay at home parents, college students, really anyone that needs quick lunch and snack ideas that won't break the bank. I work 50+ hours a week, and while I work from home, I am swamped during my work day.. if I don't have something prepared and grabable (like maybe last nights leftovers) and or a plan in place of what options I have that I could quickly throw together, I tend to just grab like a dill pickle or a handful of cheezits or pretzels or something not at all contributing to energy. I don't typically eat bfast.. so lunch would be ideal but I don't always have the time/mental capacity to figure out what to make. I loved seeing the salad mix wraps idea so def jotted that one down.. what else could you come up with?! Signed desperately help us (I know there are more of us) ❤

[@morganhenry9380]

I really enjoy your channel. It gets me out of my “what’s for breakfast/lunch/dinner” slump. Thank you!

[@helenmorgan7767]

Egg scrambler is genius!

[@Koalabears7777]

Just subscribed! Love the video. I mostly cook in the microwave so this was Extremely helpful. Thank you.

[@cindyellsworth8610]

Thank you. You are so creative with your meals. Thank you for sharing your ideas. So helpful ❤

[@graceramos8709]

I have access to more than just a microwave but this makes me want to just try your ideas for days when I don’t want to use the stove! Thank you Rebecca you have provided me with so many ideas!

[@ginafio]

You do such a nice job explaining everything. I teach High School finance and I think your food videos could be very useful for my students who are just getting started making food for themselves.