Learn to stretch meat, poultry, and fish.

Instead of making protein the center of the plate, use it sparingly for flavor and texture―almost as if it’s a condiment. Extend beef by tossing a conservative amount in a vegetable-rich stir-fry, for example, or combine a small quantity of shrimp with pasta. Pizzas, calzones, pasta bakes, and casseroles are easy dishes that use this strategy to great effect.

View Recipe: Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Bell Peppers