Book Promises $10 A Day Meals For Your Family

DORAL (CBS4) - Just when you thought you knew all the tricks of saving money at the grocery store, one woman has found a way to make a day's worth of meals for less than ten dollars.

"If we can save a few dollars a week, why wouldn't you take that up," said Jenny Patrizia, author of "Big Taste Little Money" which highlights what to do differently in the aisles of your local grocery store.

"Use your own eyes, take time to look at ingredients and a price comparison," said Patrizia.

Among her ideas, she wants people to re-use their food, like left over sauces and marinades

"You pour it in the ice tray and save those ice cubes into a freezer bags for next time you need sauce," Patrizia told CBS4's Jorge Estevez.

Patrizia also wants people to re-purpose their food; for example, grind up oatmeal to replace expensive bread crumbs. She said to also watch out for recipe's which require expensive ingredients like orange peel

"It is the same as using orange juice, so put a table spoon of orange juice instead 5 bucks [ in spices] right there," said Patrizia.

The trick to soften tougher less expensive meats like a London Broil is to add pineapple juice.

"It is going to make it softer. It is going to be equally as good as the filet mignon," said Patrizia.

Also size matters.

People should consider buying large quantities in order to save money in the long run. Avoid waste - the number one thing families throw away is vegetables so Patrizia recommends you buy then frozen.

"Your going to be saving money because you are only able to use the portions you are going to use that week and freeze the rest," said Patrizia.

Also, remember that people pay for convenience. You can spend less by buying whole vegetables, produce and fruit instead of purchasing pre-packaged items in the produce aisle.