Go DIY on Picnic, BBQ Food Preps to $ave a Lot

Planning a picnic or barbecue?

Sure, those pre-made burger patties are easy, and the potato salad from the deli counter is quick, but take a minute before you grab those items this weekend at a store.

You know they cost more, but do you really know how much more?

"Dietician in the Kitchen" Diane Henderiks does.

Henderiks, a Registered Dietician and personal chef, demonstrated on "The Early Show on Saturday Morning" just how much money you're throwing away on those convenience items - money you could save by preparing the food yourself, to help you have that picnic or barbecue without breaking the bank.

She based her numbers and serving sizes on a party of eight. Total savings? Almost $50!

Pre-formed Beef Patties

STORE: $6.98
DIY: $4.98
$AVE: $2.00

This also gives you portion control: You can control the size of the burger. You can also add ingredients you prefer, that you have at home, such as cheese, veggies, etc.

What's more, it's very simple to form a burger - it takes less than a minute.

For Dip: Hummus

STORE: $7.49
DIY : $2.32
$AVE $5.17

This is also a cinch to make - just throw the ingredients in a food processor.

Dips generally contain inexpensive ingredients and freeze very well, making them great for an impromptu gathering.

Potato Salad

STORE: $7.58
DIY: $2.80
$AVE $4.78

You can control how much fat is in it and substitute healthier ingredients, such as low-fat yogurt, mayo or sour cream for full-fat mayo.

It takes a bit of effort to make, but yields big savings.

Fruit Platter

STORE: $30
DIY: $11
$ave: $19

You're paying for the store staff to cut and chop when it's simple to do yourself. You never know quite how old the stuff the store uses is.

And the kids and everyone else can nibble at it while you're making it - it's a great way to increase fruit intake!

Lemonade Popsicles

STORE: $16
DIY: $0.48
$ave $5.52

Simple to make, and you can control the sugar content.

Iced Tea

STORE: $2.99
DIY: $1.20
$ave $1.79

TOTAL $AVINGS: $48.26