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The shorter the grocery list, the more dough you can save. Why not use items already found in your pantry and a few simple recipes to shorten that list? These recipes are also better for you because they're less processed and you can control the fat, calories, and quality of the ingredients that you use. Making these items at home reduces your consumption and allows you to choose greener ingredients.

Check out these simple recipes to shorten your shopping list and give the planet a break:

Peanut butter

I love peanut butter, my husband loves it, and it's the only way to get my puppies to eat any sort of medicine. It seems everyone is pinching pennies and if you can be green, healthy, and save dough, why wouldn't you? Best part, it is SO easy.

Homemade Peanut Butter

1 cup organic, roasted peanuts

1 1/2 tsp high quality oil (peanut oil preferred)

1/4 tsp sea salt

Method

1. Put all ingredients in a blender or a food processor.

2. Blend until mixture is spreadable.

3. Store the mixture in the refrigerator. You'll likely have to stir it if the oil and peanuts separate.

Yield: Makes about cup

Mayonnaise

What mayo does to a sandwich or a salad is simply remarkable. That creamy texture, that unbeatable flavor is something special. But it can get pricey and wasteful to buy the prepackaged variety and homemade mayo tastes so much better. Check out this all natural mayonnaise recipe.

Tea

This tea is great for a stomach ache. It will settle your stomach immediately.

Ginger Tea

2 tbsps fresh ginger, minced

3 slices orange

As much boiling water as you would like for desired strength

Method:

1. Place ginger and orange slices in teapot, pour boiling water over, and steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Drain before serving and sweeten with raw honey.

Granola bars

With so many great recipes for granola bars out there, there's just no good reason to go out and buy them. And they're pricey. Instead, try this Planet Green recipe for oatmeal raisin granola bars. If you don't like oatmeal raisin. try the crispy granola bars.

Salivating over sustainable eats? Learn how to make your own with help from Emeril Lagasse in Planet Green TV's organic cooking show, Emeril Green.