I hate wasting food and sometimes I find a container of leftover mashed potatoes sitting in the fridge. I usually just reheat them for another meal, but the other week I put them to better use. While we were sorting through my mom’s pantry, we found lots of cans of salmon. Yes, salmon makes great sandwiches, but combine it with leftover mashed potatoes and you have salmon fishcakes. A delicious meal that doesn’t cost that much. Best of all, they use ingredients you have sitting around the house. I combined a 15 ounce can of salmon with the mashed potatoes…I had about two cups. I added a tablespoon of fresh dill and some black pepper. I made them into patties and then rolled them in breadcrumbs to which I added a lemon black pepper mix. I lightly sautéed them on both sides for a couple of minutes until they were golden brown. I served them with fresh green beans I’d bought from a nearby farmer’s market stand. I have some leftover mashed potatoes yet again and yes, more salmon, so I’m going to make another batch for the freezer.

And speaking of easy and delicious recipes, I was sent a copy of the new Pillsbury Pot Pies and Casseroles cookbook that you can find at most supermarket checkouts. Each recipe has a color photo and you can tear your favorite ones to put in your recipe box. I haven’t tried any of them yet, but I’m going to. The book also features a section of budget slow cooker meals and a bonus one featuring Halloween treats.
The cookbook costs $4.99 and has two pages of coupons totaling $6.

This week on Budget Smart Girl. In too much of a hurry for breakfast each morning? Tips on making breakfasts that won’t take too much time or a bite out of your budget. Cold weather’s on its way, we’re heading back indoors. I’ve been checking out places to take free classes and free resources if you want to learn a new craft or two.

And upcoming…what clothes should you buy this fall/winter? Halloween on a budget, sites that can save you money. Lots of good stuff to look forward to this fall.

Have a good week and a safe Labor Day weekend.