About 3-4 times a year we try and go a month eating the food we've accumulated in the fridge, freezer, cupboards.

Sometimes we've been able to go a month without needing to do a big shop due to living off what we already have. Not only does it stop food waste, which I think is a huge problem, but it saves HEAPS of money. We still buy fresh fruit and veg during this time but we stick to what's on special and basics to keep the bill down.

So what sort of food am I talking about? That half bag of lentils from that soup you made in winter. The puff pastry in the freezer you used once to make a tart. The half bag of frozen corn. The can of tomato soup that's been there since the flood. That jar of capers in the fridge...

Freezer diving is my most favourite thing in the world. I find things like chicken carcasses, egg whites, leftover mashed potato, curry, stock, biscuit dough, flavoured butters etc. and doing it often means you don't have to throw these things out because they have expired.

So we've been doing this since Christmas Day. And it's been great. I'll post some of the things I make. Thought it might be handy for those who need to tighten the budget after the Christmas blowout and for those that are about to have back to school expenses.

To start with make a list of everything you have. All the cans, dried foods, frozen foods, jars etc. Then you've got something you can see. Which means it's easier to look at a glance what you have. Then scour for recipes. Pinterest, Taste website and general googling helps.

I promise you won't be disappointed.