Tasty recipes that you and your wallet will love

January can feel like a tight month. After the festivities of December, many of us are looking for ways to cut back without sacrificing taste. It’s a time to get creative with what’s already in your kitchen, making use of simple ingredients and leftovers. Here are four budget-friendly recipes, perfect for those post-holiday weeks when every penny counts. These dishes are quick and affordable, just what you need to ease into the new year.

4 Hovis® loaves. 4 ways to make your budget go further.

1. Classic French Toast

Hovis® Soft White Medium Sliced Bread is versatile and great for breakfast or a sweet treat. One of the easiest and most warming dishes you can make is classic French Toast. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a midday snack, it uses ingredients you’ve probably already got such as eggs, milk and sugar. It can be ready in ten minutes too!

To make, whisk together an egg, a splash of milk, a teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon (as well as vanilla extract if you have some!) in a shallow dish. Dip two slices of bread into the mixture, coating both sides. Heat a little butter in a frying pan, then cook the bread until golden brown on each side. Serve your French Toast with a drizzle of honey, syrup, or a handful of fresh fruit if you have some on hand. Tip: Instead of fresh fruit, which can be pricey, use frozen berries. These are more economical and just as tasty when defrosted.

2. Loaded Veggie Sandwich

Hovis® Tasty Wholemeal bread is naturally rich in wholegrains and full of texture, making it perfect for a loaded veggie sandwich. Completely vegan and completely delicious - it’s the perfect snack to get you through the day. Also, this is the ideal way to use up any leftover veggies!

Spread a layer of hummus on one slice of Hovis® Tasty Wholemeal and then layer on thin slices of cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Add a handful of leafy greens like spinach or lettuce. Season with salt and pepper, and top with the second slice of bread. Quick and colourful this sandwich makes an excellent lunch or light dinner. You can keep it vegan, however if you're partial to a bit of mayonnaise then add a spoonful on the other slice and spread across before you put the sandwich together.

Tip: The tomatoes and cucumber can be swapped in for any leftovers in the fridge! Such as peppers, grated carrots and so on.

3. Cheesy Garlic Bread

Hovis® Seed Sensations is perfect for making cheesy garlic bread. The ideal late-night snack - it’s quick and incredibly warming. The gooey cheese combined with the savoury kick of garlic hits all the right spots when you need a tasty treat.

Mix softened butter and minced garlic together in a bowl. Spread the garlic butter evenly over both slices of Hovis® Seed Sensations®. Top each slice of bread with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of your favourite herbs, such as oregano or basil. Set your air fryer for 180°C and bake for around 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once ready, remove from the oven and enjoy your delicious garlic cheese bread - Nom Nom Nom!

Tip: Grate Your Own Cheese! Pre-grated cheese is often more expensive per gram than block cheese. 

4. Quick Pizza Toast

Hovis® Farmhouse Batch creates a delicious quick pizza toast, perfect for a fast lunch or dinner. This recipe is a quick, fun and easy alternative to making a full-on pizza. Who needs a takeaway when you can channel your inner Italian and create pure cheesy, tomato magic?

Start by preheating your grill. Take two slices of bread and spread a thin layer of tomato or pizza sauce on each. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then add your choice of toppings. This is a great way to use up odds and ends in the fridge - think pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions etc.

Pop the loaded bread slices under the grill for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Serve immediately for a quick, tasty meal that channels the flavours of your favourite pizza, minus the cost and effort.

Tip: Use Tomato Paste! Instead of pricier pizza sauce, dilute tomato paste with a little water and season with herbs for a cost-effective alternative.

These recipes prove that with a little bit of creativity and a few different types of Hovis® loaves, you can use up any leftover ingredients for a delicious meal - perfect for those thinking about their wallets.

Hovis® - Making everyday food moments just that bit better.