I go through this dilemma all the time in my head. I work in a school with some cafeteria gals who know how to cook "old school." It drives them nuts that we blow money on prepackaged PB&Js and fake ribs; me too.There once was a day when cool vegetables, fruits, fresh bread and soup were offered most days.

Sounds too easy.

Beef stew (the kind grown by people HERE), while offering a vegetarian choice of a well stocked salad bar would be any easy money saver if made from scratch. The poeple are in place. ADELANTE...DEGUELLO!!!

It could be done cheaply, and with more options for kids. Now, I need a french onion soup recipe that doesn't include wine. :x