Healthy Recipes on a Budget #header { background: url(http://www.fitnesstipsforlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/cropped-fit-header.jpg) scroll no-repeat 0 0;height: 100px; }.header-image #title-area, .header-image #title-area #title, .header-image #title-area #title a { height: 100px;}body { background-color: #acc286; }
Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can no longer afford healthy food. It’s possible to eat nutritious food while pinching pennies. All you need are healthy recipes that you can make on a budget. While the thought of preparing delicious, healthy meals may seem daunting when you’re on a tight budget, keep in mind that you have complete control over what goes on in your kitchen.
By cooking smart, you can stretch your food dollars and enjoy the quality food that you and your family deserve.
The first step in saving money and eating healthy is to cut out (or at least limit) junk food and alcohol. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and limit salty and sugary foods. Drink plenty of water and eat a wide variety of nutritious foods.
Stock Up on Budget-Friendly Ingredients
When you’re on a budget it’s easier to prepare healthy recipes if you have budget-friendly items on hand. Make sure you fill your fridge and cupboards with the following items:
?Beans and lentils are nutritious, rich in protein and fiber, and easy on your wallet. Buy them canned or dried. They make a hearty, nutritious soup and can be served as a main course with rice or fresh vegetables.
?Pasta is quick and easy to cook. You can pair it with fish, vegetables, chicken, meat, or a fresh green salad. Whenever available, choose whole-wheat pasta,
?Brown rice can be added to leftover meat and vegetables to make a new dish. Brown rice is a bit more expensive than white, but the nutritional value is worth it.
?Fresh fruits and vegetables in season are important ingredients when you are making healthy recipes on a budget. Vegetables are great for stir-fries, while fruit makes a quick and nutritious snack. Canned and frozen varieties are also good options especially if you can get them on sale.
?Meat and fish are excellent sources of protein and should be kept on hand for last-minute meals. Stock up on inexpensive cuts of meat for stews and casseroles.
?Herbs and spices add flavor to your dishes. Keep a good selection of dried herbs, spices, marinades, vinegars, curry powder, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and stock cubes in your pantry. The simplest recipe will taste exciting and new with the right condiments.
?Soups are filling, hearty, and healthy with the addition of vegetables and leftover meat. Use canned or packet soups, and experiment by adding herbs and spices.
It only takes a little planning and creativity to make healthy recipes on a budget. When you think of the money you will save and the health benefits for your family you’ll find it’s worth the extra effort. Start with healthy easy recipes, economical pasta recipes, and hearty bean or lentil soups. You’ll be amazed to find that good food does not have to cost a lot of money.
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