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Leo weekly horoscope: What your star sign has in store for June 15 – June 22

Illustration of Leo zodiac sign.
Fab’s new horoscope format. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died last March but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégé Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today.

Sign up for the Mystic Meg newsletter.

Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy

LEO

JULY 23 – AUG 23

🔵 Read our horoscopes live blog for the latest readings

Illustration of Leo zodiac sign.

Instead of pushing forward with a cash plan that feels insufficient, you can go back and start again this week.

You’ll also find your voice in a loud group and have your points taken seriously.

In love, it’s the little gestures that make a partner feel special when you’re together, which keeps love strong when you’re apart.

If you’re single, a hot Aries who wears a lot of silver may catch your eye.

DESTINY DAYS

Be thankful for special people in your life on Monday.

On Wednesday, finalise one cash deal and start another.

On Friday, find a new way to express an old worry.

What is your star sign's element?

In astrology, the elements — Air, Water, Earth, and Fire signs — serve as foundational principles that influence the characteristics and behaviours associated with the twelve star signs.

Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn

The Earth signs are grounded in the tangible and practical aspects of life, embodying the stable and nurturing qualities of their element. These signs are known for their pragmatism, reliability, and strong connection to the physical world, often excelling in matters that require patience and persistence.

Air Signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius

The Air signs are characterised by their intellectual, communicative, and social nature. This reflects the light and dynamic essence of their elemental influence. Overall, these signs tend to excel in the realms of ideas, relationships, and innovation, bringing a breath of fresh air to their interactions and thought processes.

Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces

The Water element signs are profoundly impacted by their element. With each astrological sign, water gives way to emotional depth, strong intuition, and a capacity for deep empathy and connection.

Fire Signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius

Fuelled by the element of Fire, these fire signs in astrology are known for their passion, boldness, energy, enthusiasm, courage, and a zest for life that often leads them to adventurous and creative endeavours.

LUCKY LINKS

The sound of pealing bells, music linked to South America, and bright-striped clothing.

JUPITER SQUARE SATURN

This third square of Jupiter and Saturn within a year could be your moment to start achieving high-profile dreams or exploring the hidden parts of your true self.

The key is not expecting things to be easy, but still believing in your ability to succeed.

Starting any journey with a positive outlook protects your progress and wellbeing.

Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.

You can also use our series of guides to find out everything from which star sign to hook up with for the steamiest sex to what it’s like to live your life totally by your horoscope.

Read More »

Taurus weekly horoscope: What your star sign has in store for June 15 – June 22

Illustration of Taurus zodiac sign.

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégé Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today.

Sign up for the Mystic Meg newsletter.

Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 21

🔵 Read our horoscopes live blog for the latest readings

Illustration of Taurus zodiac sign.

The heat of the sun is so strong in your sector of reaching out, and this can blast away any recent hesitation to talk or listen.

Letting go of the past is your number one task, while celebrating the future you deserve is number two.

Passion-wise, this is a week of personal firsts, which could include approaching someone you have admired for a long time, perhaps even years.

DESTINY DAYS

Talk yourself up on Monday, as key VIPs may be listening.

Revisit a former style on Thursday.

Stay true to your values on Friday.

Horoscope traits

What does your star sign mean for you?

Aries – The best and worst characteristics of the head of the zodiac
Aquarius – The traits you need to know for the air sign
Capricorn – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Cancer – The key traits for the sign include a keen love of food
Gemini – The traits to be aware of for the sign with a symbol of twins
Leo – The best and worst characteristics of the fire sign
Libra – What does the seventh star sign mean for your personality?
Pisces – The key traits for the sign include an interest in the arts
Sagittarius – The traits you need to know for the fire sign
Scorpio – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Taurus – The best and worst characteristics of the earth sign
Virgo – The key traits for the sign include loyalty and kindness

LUCKY LINKS

A friend who loves organising events, a dotted yellow line, and music with a link to space.

JUPITER SQUARE SATURN

The third square of the two biggest planets in a year is significant for you, as it can turn unspoken wishes into real change.

Money is the prime factor – what it means to you and what you want from it.

After much thought, you can now speak your mind, even if not everyone will like what you have to say.

This planet alignment balances resilience with positivity.

Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.

You can also use our series of guides to find out everything from which star sign to hook up with for the steamiest sex to what it’s like to live your life totally by your horoscope.

Read More »

Cancer weekly horoscope: What your star sign has in store for June 15 – June 22

Illustration of Cancer zodiac sign with other zodiac signs in the background.
Fab’s new horoscope format. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégé Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today.

Sign up for the Mystic Meg newsletter.

Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy

CANCER

JUNE 22 – JULY 22

Illustration of Cancer zodiac sign with other zodiac signs in the background.

You’re aligned with the sun, and your summer can officially begin.

Say yes to outdoor activities and events this week, and explore growing things, from flowers to a side business.

There’s a special energy about you that others find irresistible.

In love, this helps you move past a stubborn sticking point and move forward.

Your luck factor circles around “72”.

DESTINY DAYS

Measure carefully on Monday – perhaps get someone to double-check your figures.

Take every offer seriously on Thursday.

Relax and unwind on Saturday.

What is your star sign's element?

In astrology, the elements — Air, Water, Earth, and Fire signs — serve as foundational principles that influence the characteristics and behaviours associated with the twelve star signs.

Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn

The Earth signs are grounded in the tangible and practical aspects of life, embodying the stable and nurturing qualities of their element. These signs are known for their pragmatism, reliability, and strong connection to the physical world, often excelling in matters that require patience and persistence.

Air Signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius

The Air signs are characterised by their intellectual, communicative, and social nature. This reflects the light and dynamic essence of their elemental influence. Overall, these signs tend to excel in the realms of ideas, relationships, and innovation, bringing a breath of fresh air to their interactions and thought processes.

Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces

The Water element signs are profoundly impacted by their element. With each astrological sign, water gives way to emotional depth, strong intuition, and a capacity for deep empathy and connection.

Fire Signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius

Fuelled by the element of Fire, these fire signs in astrology are known for their passion, boldness, energy, enthusiasm, courage, and a zest for life that often leads them to adventurous and creative endeavours.

LUCKY LINKS

Your oldest friend, a song that reminds you of someone whose name starts with “S”, and the third option on a list of ten.

JUPITER SQUARE SATURN

The third square of these major planets in less than a year is crunch time for you, in the best way.

Instead of keeping ambitions as tempting dreams, you are ready to turn them into challenging realities.

The path may not be straightforward, but it will teach you much about your unique inner strength.

Important people are already noticing this special quality.

Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.

You can also use our series of guides to find out everything from which star sign to hook up with for the steamiest sex to what it’s like to live your life totally by your horoscope.

Read More »

Aries weekly horoscope: What your star sign has in store for June 15 – June 22

Illustration of the Aries zodiac sign.
Fab’s new horoscope format. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégé Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today.

Sign up for the Mystic Meg newsletter.

Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

ARIES

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

🔵 Read our horoscopes live blog for the latest readings

Aries horoscope symbol.

All your natural leadership tendencies are enhanced this week as Mars energises your work-life space.

You may have hesitated to put yourself forward for a significant role, but now you feel perfectly suited.

You also have the skills to step in or step up, even at the last minute.

Love may feel as though it is asking a lot from you, but the rewards can be so rich. Luck won’t wait, so grab it!

DESTINY DAYS

Tuesday is your day to take your time and carefully read all documents, instructions, and messages.

Reassess a love choice on Wednesday.

Make time for someone whose name starts with “M” on Sunday.

Horoscope traits

What does your star sign mean for you?

Aries – The best and worst characteristics of the head of the zodiac
Aquarius – The traits you need to know for the air sign
Capricorn – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Cancer – The key traits for the sign include a keen love of food
Gemini – The traits to be aware of for the sign with a symbol of twins
Leo – The best and worst characteristics of the fire sign
Libra – What does the seventh star sign mean for your personality?
Pisces – The key traits for the sign include an interest in the arts
Sagittarius – The traits you need to know for the fire sign
Scorpio – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Taurus – The best and worst characteristics of the earth sign
Virgo – The key traits for the sign include loyalty and kindness

LUCKY LINKS

Names starting with “J”, numbers that are multiples of five, the outfit that always makes you feel like a star, and pale blue flowers.

JUPITER SQUARE SATURN

The third square of Jupiter and Saturn since last summer finds you ready to seek written closure on a deal that may have so far only been a verbal agreement.

This could relate to property or a career that feels like a strong foundation for your future.

You have had some hard lessons to learn over the past year, but an end is now in sight, so keep persevering.

Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.

You can also use our series of guides to find out everything from which star sign to hook up with for the steamiest sex to what it’s like to live your life totally by your horoscope.

Read More »

Gemini weekly horoscope: What your star sign has in store for June 15 – June 22

Gemini horoscope illustration.
Fab’s new horoscope format. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégé Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today.

Sign up for the Mystic Meg newsletter.

Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy

GEMINI

MAY 22 – JUNE 21

🔵 Read our horoscopes live blog for the latest readings

Gemini horoscope illustration.

Your home situation may feel volatile, but this can pave the way for positive change, so go with the flow.

Show those you care about that you are open to new ways of living or loving, but still follow your own set of internal rules.

As Jupiter and Saturn challenge connections between friends and finances, only borrow or lend after careful consideration.

Passion has a dreamy depth this week.

DESTINY DAYS

Stop tinkering with a deal on Tuesday and move it to the next stage.

Ask yourself big love questions on Friday.

Step away from a family conflict on Sunday – it’s not your fight!

Horoscope traits

What does your star sign mean for you?

Aries – The best and worst characteristics of the head of the zodiac
Aquarius – The traits you need to know for the air sign
Capricorn – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Cancer – The key traits for the sign include a keen love of food
Gemini – The traits to be aware of for the sign with a symbol of twins
Leo – The best and worst characteristics of the fire sign
Libra – What does the seventh star sign mean for your personality?
Pisces – The key traits for the sign include an interest in the arts
Sagittarius – The traits you need to know for the fire sign
Scorpio – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Taurus – The best and worst characteristics of the earth sign
Virgo – The key traits for the sign include loyalty and kindness

LUCKY LINKS

Multi-coloured hair or clothing, contests with property prizes, and three sisters who sing together.

JUPITER SQUARE SATURN

The third square of these two power planets since last summer signifies a moment to pause, take stock, and correct anything that isn’t working well for you.

Doubts around a big change you’ve been planning are natural, but the key is to keep a clear head and determine which negative feelings are valid.

Then, you can harness this planetary power for progress.

Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.

You can also use our series of guides to find out everything from which star sign to hook up with for the steamiest sex to what it’s like to live your life totally by your horoscope.

Read More »

Weekly horoscope for June 15 – June 21: What the stars have in store for every zodiac sign revealed

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégée Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today.

ARIES

MAR 21 – APR 20

Illustration of the Aries zodiac sign.

All your natural leadership tendencies are enhanced this week as Mars energises your work-life space.

You may have hesitated to put yourself forward for a significant role, but now you feel perfectly suited.

You also have the skills to step in or step up, even at the last minute.

Love may feel as though it is asking a lot from you, but the rewards can be so rich. Luck won’t wait, so grab it!

TAURUS

APR 21 – MAY 21

Illustration of Taurus zodiac sign.

The heat of the sun is so strong in your sector of reaching out, and this can blast away any recent hesitation to talk or listen.

Letting go of the past is your number one task, while celebrating the future you deserve is number two.

Passion-wise, this is a week of personal firsts, which could include approaching someone you have admired for a long time, perhaps even years.

GEMINI

MAY 22 – JUNE 21

Illustration of Gemini horoscope symbol with other zodiac signs in the background.

Your home situation may feel volatile, but this can pave the way for positive change, so go with the flow.

Show those you care about that you are open to new ways of living or loving, but still follow your own set of internal rules.

As Jupiter and Saturn challenge connections between friends and finances, only borrow or lend after careful consideration.

Passion has a dreamy depth this week.

CANCER

JUNE 22 – JULY 22

Illustration of Cancer zodiac sign with other zodiac signs in the background.

You’re aligned with the sun, and your summer can officially begin.

Say yes to outdoor activities and events this week, and explore growing things, from flowers to a side business.

There’s a special energy about you that others find irresistible.

In love, this helps you move past a stubborn sticking point and move forward. Your luck factor circles around “72”.

LEO

JULY 23 – AUG 23

Illustration of Leo zodiac sign.

Instead of pushing forward with a cash plan that feels insufficient, you can go back and start again this week.

You’ll also find your voice in a loud group and have your points taken seriously.

In love, it’s the little gestures that make a partner feel special when you’re together, which keeps love strong when you’re apart.

If you’re single, a hot Aries who wears a lot of silver may catch your eye.

VIRGO

AUG 24 – SEPT 22

Virgo zodiac sign illustration.

You and Mars may seem like an unlikely pair, but together you can achieve great results.

This week, you may need to set aside your usual personal rules and allow yourself to be a little wilder.

This could be a revelation!

Old friends with a new look could bring luck, and you should seriously consider taking steps towards talking on camera.

Love is a learning curve of shared curiosity.

LIBRA

SEPT 23 – OCT 23

Illustration of Libra zodiac sign with other zodiac signs in the background.

Think twice about hiding anything this week, whether it’s feelings or facts, as Mars exerts strong influence on the deepest part of your chart.

Honesty is your best policy, and you have the strength to say even difficult things.

With the sun now at the top of your chart, it’s a week to celebrate who you are and where you’re going.

Set some shining goals in love and life.

SCORPIO

OCT 24 – NOV 22

Illustration of Scorpio zodiac sign with other zodiac signs in the background.

You may have been feeling that friends or workmates are taking more than they give.

Now, with Mars on your side, you can correct this balance and take back control.

However, it is crucial to do so with a cool head rather than a hot heart.

Your passion profile is strongly pro-commitment, and this could be a week to make significant promises, perhaps when you least expect it.

New love may be linked to someone whose name starts with “T”.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 – DEC 21

Sagittarius zodiac sign: bow and arrow illustration.

Your deepest desires can be illuminated by the sun, which also brings you the energy to begin chasing a dream of looking or working in a very different way.

Making one promise to yourself and keeping it could redesign your entire future.

If you are in love, giving your partner your time is the most valuable thing you can do.

If single, Mars ignites sudden passion as temperatures rise.

CAPRICORN

DEC 22 – JAN 20

Capricorn zodiac sign illustration.

Boundaries fall, and rules break as you prepare to become a very different version of yourself.

A time of going along with others’ demands can shift to fulfilling your own inner wishes.

Your sunny charm makes you a special member of any team.

A journey that takes you out of your comfort zone may feel daunting, but the destination could be everything you’ve ever dreamed of.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 – FEB 18

Aquarius horoscope illustration.

The extra push you need to complete a challenging task may come from Mars, reinforced by the sun.

Meanwhile, Jupiter and Saturn square up, and you may find the right words to reclaim a work or health opportunity.

It’s important to speak to yourself positively, especially regarding love – because you are enough, and you do deserve happiness.

PISCES

FEB 19 – MAR 20

Illustration of the Pisces zodiac sign with other zodiac signs in the background.

If your usual approach is to wait and watch, prepare to take action instead as Mars powers in.

You can show that you are ready to negotiate but also set strict deadlines, whether in work or love.

Expect a surge in creative ideas focused on music and art.

This is your week to start expressing yourself in unique ways. The luck factor spells out words.

Horoscope traits

What does your star sign mean for you?

Aries – The best and worst characteristics of the head of the zodiac
Aquarius – The traits you need to know for the air sign
Capricorn – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Cancer – The key traits for the sign include a keen love of food
Gemini – The traits to be aware of for the sign with a symbol of twins
Leo – The best and worst characteristics of the fire sign
Libra – What does the seventh star sign mean for your personality?
Pisces – The key traits for the sign include an interest in the arts
Sagittarius – The traits you need to know for the fire sign
Scorpio – What does this star sign mean for your personality?
Taurus – The best and worst characteristics of the earth sign
Virgo – The key traits for the sign include loyalty and kindness

Read More »

Aquarius weekly horoscope: What your star sign has in store for June 15 – 21

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégé Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today. 

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 – FEB 18

🔵 Read our horoscopes live blog for the latest readings

a blue background with the word aquarius on it

That extra push you need to complete a challenging task, can
come from Mars – and be reinforced by the sun.

Meanwhile, Jupiter and Saturn square up and you can speak or write the right words to get yourself back in a work
or health opportunity.

It’s important to talk to yourself in positive ways, especially about love – because you are enough, and you do deserve happiness.

DESTINY DAYS: Heal your heart with some inner truth-telling on Tuesday. But set aside some of Wednesday to explore
a fascinating creative work field. Open your eyes on Saturday, to see new “L” romance looking right back.

LUCKY LINKS: Red writing on a blue background. A prize that doubles every day. The youngest person in a sport or
leisure team.

JUPITER SQUARE SATURN: Although you may be growing impatient with a work or wellbeing situation, the third
Jupiter-Saturn square in less than 12 months can be a key success factor.

You can express ideas that so far may have felt too difficult for words – and you can connect so well with difficult or
distant people.

Deep trust in yourself, to stay calm, and just get stronger, can be repaid with a series of exciting offers.

Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.

You can also use our series of guides to find out everything from which star sign to hook up with for the steamiest sex to what it’s like to live your life totally by your horoscope.

Read More »

Pisces weekly horoscope: What your star sign has in store for June 15 – 21

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégé Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today. 

PISCES

FEB 19 – MAR 20

🔵 Read our horoscopes live blog for the latest readings

a zodiac sign for pisces with a green background

If your usual tactic is waiting and watching, get ready to opt for action instead – as Mars powers in.

You can show you are ready to negotiate, but also set a strict deadline, in everything from work to love. You can expect a surge in creative ideas, with the focus on music and art.

This is your week to start expressing yourself in unique ways.

The luck factor spells out words.

DESTINY DAYS: Be the first to say “sorry” or offer to start over, on Monday. Listen to. or read, a message again on Wednesday, as you may have missed one crucial part. Let pure passion decide your path on Friday.

LUCKY LINKS: Competitions, or connections, linked to recipes. A Taurus who makes you feel so safe. A meeting
beside, or close to, a clock tower.

JUPITER SQUARE SATURN: The third Jupiter-Saturn square within a year finds both power planets in new positions and
with new points to prove.

The focus for you is values – and sticking to what you know to be right, no matter what pressure may be applied, is the only way that works for your genuine self.

Talks and actions may feel tough, but the
outcome can be doubly rewarding down the line.

Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.

You can also use our series of guides to find out everything from which star sign to hook up with for the steamiest sex to what it’s like to live your life totally by your horoscope.

Read More »

Chef’s top 4 easy food swaps for summer grilling to beat rising grocery prices – you even get ‘more flavor’ less money

SUMMER signals the start of grilling season, but you don’t have to break the bank to whip up delicious meals on the grill.

A top chef has revealed four simple switches you can make this summer amid rising meat prices to slash your grilling costs without sacrificing flavor.

A person grilling burgers, sausages, and vegetables.
Getty
Grilling season is in full swing as the weather heats up[/caption]
Woman shopping for raw red meat in a supermarket.
Getty
Meat costs are on the rise, resulting in more expensive summer barbecues[/caption]
Woman holding a potato in a kitchen.
Instagram/tastefullygrace
Chef Grace Vallo spoke exclusively with The U.S. Sun about easy swaps you can make this summer to save money when you grill[/caption]

Summer is just days away, officially kicking off on the summer solstice, which falls on June 20 or 21 in the Northern Hemisphere.

Grilling season is also upon us thanks to the warming temperatures, making it the perfect time to head outdoors with your family and friends for a delicious meal of barbecued veggies and meat.

Cooking up a feast on the grill, however, is becoming more and more pricey.

The price of a summer barbecue for 10 people is roughly $103 this season – around 4% more than in 2024 and 41% more than in 2018, per a recent report from RaboBank.

Supply and demand as well as inflation are mainly to blame for the price hike, plus other factors such as tariffs and rising labor costs.

And while no summer grilling season is complete without meat, it can run up your bill and make for a costly cookout.

The cost of both chicken and beef have spiked since last year, with the latter meat especially hit hard due to decreased cattle inventory and increased production costs, pushing an all-time high for retail beef prices.

To help shoppers combat inflation at the grocery store, The U.S. Sun spoke exclusively with chef Grace Vallo about easy switches for grilling season to cut costs “without sacrificing the flavor and fun.”

A full-time recipe developer, blogger, and foodie, Vallo is the face behind the popular cooking website Tastefully Grace, where she shares kitchen-tested recipes and step-by-step tutorials to help home cooks become pros in the kitchen.

Vallo dished out her top four tricks for saving money when grilling this summer so that you can pull off the grill cover and get in full cooking mode without emptying your pockets.

1. CHICKEN THIGHS > CHICKEN BREASTS

While many Americans reach for the chicken breasts at the grocery store, Vallo advised opting for chicken thighs instead.

They generally boast more flavor and versatility than the white meat in chicken breasts, according to Vallo.

The dark meat in chicken thighs has a higher fat content, and when the fat melts during the cooking process, it keeps the meat moist helping the thighs to “stay juicy on the grill.”

On the other hand, white meat contains less fat and can dry out more easily on the grill.

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  • Pit Boss 850 DX Series Pellet Grill from Lowe’s, $549 $449 – buy here
  • Expert Grill 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill from Walmart, $197 $174 – buy here

Not only do chicken thighs have a richer flavor than chicken breasts, but they are also generally cheaper per pound.

2. GROUND TURKEY OR PORK > GROUND BEEF

Another easy switch that chef Vallo suggested was ditching ground beef in favor of either ground turkey or pork.

The latter options are more affordable, especially for burgers or kebabs, said the cooking pro.

Beef has skyrocketed in price, with ground beef prices up 10% year-over-year – a much greater spike than chicken at nearly 3% and ham at over 4%.

Woman shopping for meat in a supermarket.
Getty
Ground beef prices are up 10% since last year[/caption]

The average cost of a pound of ground beef reached a record-high of $5.80 in April – a nearly 50% increase from five years ago.

The meat is so costly at the moment due to several factors, including drought, expensive grain to feed the cattle, general inflation, and high interest rates.

The US cattle herd is at its lowest level in decades, pushing high prices and making ground turkey and ground pork much more economically feasible options.

While many Americans prefer ground beef for its rich, savory flavor, Vallo suggested zhuzhing up the leaner options with some seasoning “to boost the flavor.”

How to cut the cost of your grocery shop

BELOW are some tips on how to reduce the amount you spend on groceries.

  • Write yourself a list – Only buy items that you need. If it isn’t on your list, don’t put it in the trolley
  • Create a budget – Work out a weekly budget for your food shopping
  • Never shop hungry – You are far more likely to buy  more food if your tummy is rumbling
  • Don’t buy pre-chopped veggies or fruit – The extra they’ll charge for chopping can be eye watering
  • Use social media – Follow your favourite retailers to find out about the latest deals
  • Be disloyal – You may want to go to different stores to find the best bargains
  • Check the small print –  It’s always worth checking the price per kg/lb/litre when comparing offers so you’re making a like for like decision as a bigger box won’t necessarily mean you get more
  • Use your loyalty cards – Don’t be afraid to sign up to them all. They all work slightly differently – work out what bonus suits you better and remember to trade in your points for additional rewards

3. MEAT + BEAN BURGERS > ALL-MEAT BURGERS

Another way to slash your grilling costs this summer is by mixing beans into your burger patties.

Chef Vallo suggested mixing black beans, lentils, or chickpeas into burger patties to not only reduce their cost, but also boost the fiber contents.

This tip makes for a more filling meal and adds bulk to the patties so you can make more servings from the same amount of beef.

Shoppers can get even more bang for their buck by swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or pork.

4. SAUSAGES > STEAKS

Another easy yet cost-effective switch to stack up the savings during grilling season is to ditch expensive steaks in favor of sausages.

Steak tends to be some of the priciest cuts in the meat section, and prices are only climbing higher.

Meat prices have risen year-over-year with steak up 7%, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Not only are the historic cattle herd lows impacting beef prices, but also tariffs, as the US imports a significant amount of meat from Canada and Mexico.

Instead of giving in to the higher prices, chef Vallo advised swapping out steaks for grilled sausage, whether pork, chicken, or turkey.

“Grill links or slice the sausages into skewers,” said the pro cook. “They have great flavor at a fraction of the cost.”

As inflation hits hard at the grocery store, a retail expert has shared three easy tips to save at checkout.

Plus, as the summer heat raises energy bills, an HVAC tech has revealed a simple mistake you’re making that’s costing you $100s.

Man taking a brown leather wallet out of his jeans pocket.
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Although meat prices – especially beef and chicken – are on the rise, simple grilling switches can help you slash your barbecue costs[/caption]

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Double murderer Stephen Stanko executed after final meal of cherry pie and banana pudding

A DOUBLE murderer was executed by injection after a final meal of cherry pie and banana pudding.

One of Stephen Stanko’s two death sentences was for killing Henry Turner and emptying his bank account in 2005.

Mugshot of Stephen Stanko.
Double murdered Stephen Stanko was executed by injection 20 years after his attacks
Supplied

Hours earlier he had strangled girlfriend Laura Ling in her home.

Stanko, 57, also raped and slit the throat of the woman’s teenage daughter, who survived.

In a three-minute statement in Columbia state prison, South Carolina, he apologised to his victims and asked not to be judged.

He said: “I have lived for approximately 20,973 days but I am judged solely for one.

“Once I am gone, I hope that Laura’s family and Henry’s family can all forgive me.

“The execution may help them. Forgiveness will heal them.”

His last meal was fried fish, shrimp, crab cakes, baked potato, carrots, okra, cherry pie, banana pudding and sweet tea.

He was pronounced dead at 6.34pm local time on Friday — 28 minutes after the first jab.

It was South Carolina’s sixth execution in nine months.

The state’s two previous death-row inmates chose firing squad.

A third option is electric chair.

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