Newsflash: They certainly arent, and healthy eating absolutely doesnt have to cost a fortune.
Before you get shopping, there are a fewbudget-friendly tricksyou should have up your sleeve.
In fact, every single one of them will cost you less than a dollar per serving.
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Lentils
Oh hey, lentils.
Bonus: its also full of fiber and incredibly versatile.
Add it to soups and salads, or turn it into dips and vegetarian burgers.
A full 16 oz.
bag will cost you just $1.39.
Canned beans
This is another pantry staple that we love.
A single can of almost any kind of bean will often cost you less than $0.80.
Like lentils, beans are a great source of protein andfiber, and theyre also high in iron.
But seriously, they are so, so cheap.
How can you resist?
you’ve got the option to use canned fish in myriad recipes.
I like to add this ingredient to salads, pastas, and sandwiches.
So if you want to get a little fancy, you still wont be spending a ton.
Tofu
Another affordable plant-based protein, tofu is a favorite of budget-shoppers everywhere.
Bananas
When it comes to fruit, things do tend to get a little pricey.
(Thats why its important to shop in season whenever possible!)
However, bananas are reliably pretty cheap.
Thats not a joke!
Dried cranberries
Not all dried fruits are cheap.
But dried cranberries (and raisins, for that matter) are totally affordable.
One bag costs about $3.50.
Add them to oatmeal, salads, or even eat them by themselves.
Oatmeal
Keep a container of oatmeal in your pantry, and youll never want for breakfast.
Oats are packed with fiber and have a little protein to boot.
A tin will cost you about $2.59.
Whole wheat pasta
Pasta, how we love thee.
Bonus: A box will cost you about $1.39.
Brown rice
Like whole wheat pasta, brown rice is clutch.
When stored properly, it can last in your pantry for a long time.
Its also high in fiber, and has a bit of protein.
And its a great ingredient to prep ahead and use in meals throughout your week.
A full bag will cost you about $3.
