You may think the words “cheap” and “healthy” are impossible to be used in the same sentence, but I can assure you, just because you’re on a budget, doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your gut health and flavors.
We always aim to save on our grocery bill where we can. When you’re feeling crunched for time and money, these budget-friendly, easy meals are packed with potent nutrients, and all take about 20 minutes or less to make it on your plate.
Chicken Cutlets with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce from Eating Well.
This recipe shows how to make chicken cutlets with double the deliciousness. Serve them over whole wheat spaghetti or orzo.l. Brown rice or farro would be a welcome addition as would a toasted slice of crusty bread to sop up any leftover sauce.
Shrimp Scampi from Eating Well
This shrimp scampi is a favorite dish at many Italian restaurants but this version takes just 20 minutes to prepare, so it's perfect for a weeknight dinner at home.
Pesto-Prosciutto Flatbread from Better Homes & Gardens
The flatbread recipe is full of Mediterranean flavor thanks to tomato pesto, prosciutto, provolone cheese, and peppery arugula.
Mexican chicken burger from BBC Good Food
Ready in under 20 minutes, this burger with spiced chipotle chicken breast, in toasted brioche with guacamole, makes for a satisfying weeknight treat!
Tomato & Thyme Cod from BBC Good Food
This fish dish is great for a Monday night when you'd rather be on the sofa than in the kitchen
Sweet Potato & Peanut Curry from BBC Good Food
Cook this tasty, budget-friendly vegan curry for an easy family dinner. With spinach and sweet potato, it boasts two of your five-a-day and it’s under 400 calories! Yum!
Parmesan Chicken Cous-Cous from Taste of Home
Really good, really simple, and really delicious. Can be made as a side dish/appetizer as well!
Vegan Smash With Arugula & Dried Cranberries from Ambitious Kitchen
No mayo necessary thanks to the creamy, ripe avocado. Cranberries and lemon give it a nice sweet tang! You’ll love how easy this is to throw together for lunch.
Vegan One-Pot Chickpea Shakshuka from BuzzFeed
This dish is is smoky, tomato-y, rich, hearty, spicy, comforting, vegetable-forward, protein and fibre rich, and insanely easy to make! Win-win!
Vegan Tofu Scramble Kale Fried Rice from ChefdeHome
Friends, this bowl of vegan fried rice is packed with vegetarian tofu protein, and naturally gluten-free!
15-Minute Lo Mein from PinchofYum
15-Minute Lo Mein! Made with just soy sauce, sesame oil, a pinch of sugar, ramen noodles or spaghetti noodles, and any veggies or protein you like. SO YUMMY!
Baked Salmon with Warm Lentil Salad from Healthy Food Guide
Salmon and dill are a delicious combination in this healthier, gluten-free dinner that you can have on the table in only 20-mins!
Easy Vegan Pad Thai from Choosing Chia
This Vegan Pad Thai is made with fresh simple ingredients like bean sprouts, garlic, and lime juice. So delicious!
Sausage and Egg Sandwiches from Good Housekeeping
Classic sausage and egg muffins that you can get from fast food chains, but this one is definitely healthier!
Kale Walnut Pesto & Blistered Tomato Pasta from Tastes Lovely
A twist on the traditional pesto with lots of added kale and walnuts. Topped with blistered tomato and parmesan cheese. A fast, healthy and delicious vegetarian pasta dinner
Vegan Avocado Toast with Carrot Bacon & Microgreens from The Daring Kitchen
Who doesn't love avocado toast? The greatest part is that avocado toast is ridiculously easy to make at home.
Vegan Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal from The Daring Kitchen
You never knew breakfast could taste this good until you try this peanut butter banana oatmeal!
Healthy 5-Ingredient Granola Bars from Minimalist Baker
Speaking of delicious, these little guys are dreamy. Simple flavors, wholesome ingredients, salty-sweet and lots of crunch!
Apple Crisp Oatmeal Squares from chocolatexdiaries
Sweet, moist and gooey baked oatmeal base with flavorful sweet apples and glorious crisp topping. Are you drooling yet?
Breakfast Egg Muffins from Dinner at the Zoo
An easy grab-and-go option for busy mornings. Low-carb and packed with protein!
Sticking to healthy meals on a budget often means driving past your favorite eatery and straight home. But with delicious and nutritious homemade food like these, you can don't have to miss out on take-out flavor while saving money, sodium, and calories!
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