Budget-friendly meals from chef Kathy Gunst — who says rising food prices don't mean declining tas

Food prices are rising. Recent reports indicate that food costs are at least 8% more than they were this time last year — and expected to rise even further during the year. The reasons? Let me count the ways: The price of wheat and corn is skyrocketing due to the Russia-Ukraine war. Both countries are producers of much of the world’s wheat as well as vegetable and sunflower oils. The pandemic, supply chain issues and the ongoing drought throughout California have also contributed to soaring prices. And then there’s an avian flu outbreak that has hiked the cost of eggs.

Despite all the reasons to despair, there are many ways to eat well without breaking the budget. These three dishes — that take influences from Spain, France and an American classic — will not make you feel that you’re giving up good taste in order to reduce your grocery bills.

The first dish