Chef on a shoestring

[Svadhisthana]

One of the network morning shows has a segment called "Chef on a shoestring". The premise is: a chef has to create a three course meal for under $20. Pantry staples, like butter, salt, pepper, etc. don't count towards the final cost. No frozen or canned foods are allowed. What three course meal could you create?

For how many persons: I assume, four?

Bruschetta (Baguette - ca. $1, can of diced tomatoes - 0.60, 4 oz. parmesan from 8 oz. bag for $2= $1, garlic, salt, pepper from staples --> 2.60 for appetizer)

Pasta with wild mushroom sauce (1 lb. pasta - $1, 1 big package of Italian Gourmet Mushrooms - $3.69, small package of heavy cream - 1.50, Italian Seasoning, onions and sherry from staples --> 6.19 for main)

Ricotta-Cheesecake in a glass (1 small package ricotta - 1.69, 1 package creme cheese - $1, crumbles chocolate wafers and honey from staples, fresh fruit of the season like strawberries, blueberries and/or grapes - ca. $4 --> 6.69 for dessert)

That's 15.48, so there's still some left for a small bottle of wine.....

Prices are from our local supermarket in a suburban Atlanta area.