Reducing Your Work Lunch Expenses

July 7th, 2008 • Related • Filed Under • by tisha

One of the most common ways to save money that is mentioned over and over is by skipping meals out on potluck the town and staying home to eat instead. But what happens when you go to work everyday? Bring a bologna and cheese everyday can get old fast but so many people are trying to cut corners and cost as much as possible.

Why not try a potluck lunch celebration? Potlucks involve each willing participant bringing a different dish with them for a lunch period on a designated day. While the whole office may not be interested in participating, those of your co-workers who are also trying to watch their cash spending may be open to such a plan. Set a date to hold the potluck during a regular office lunch hour on a day everyone participating will be in the office. Have some co-workers bring a dessert item, others can supply drinks, and the rest can bring an entrée.

It may still cost you a little bit of money to provide a contribution but there is no reason you can get creative with what is already in your pantry. Look up recipes on the internet for some of the items you have available. Otherwise, if you must shop, stick to a basic dish. There is no need to bring a knockout dish that costs a fortune but you must make sure there is enough for everyone. Plus, when you consider what you would spend on a lunch out at a restaurant, you will most likely be saving yourself some cash.

Remember to keep it simple. If you are really feeling the pinch in your wallet, bring a head of lettuce and a bottle of salad dressing or a batch of instant pudding. Deviled eggs are cheap and easy to make. Fresh fruit is also a good idea. If you take a little time and think of the simple things most everyone enjoys but rarely would make for themselves, you’re sure to pick a winning idea.

If the potluck idea catches on in the office, make a habit of planning a regular event, perhaps once a month. It is a great way to break up the monotony of boring sandwiches and leftovers and makes saving money fun. You can also carry over the potluck idea amongst your friends and family. Busy moms and dads may welcome the break from cooking each night and enjoy the company of others during some downtime in an otherwise busy schedule.