Healthy eating on a budget

Truth is, eating wholesome delicious food doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. The key is to make sure you're stocked up on the essentials, minimize waste and find budget friendly picks at the grocery store. 

1: Get creative with protein! It doesn't have to just come from meat. Think beans, chickpeas, peas & lentils. Lentils are a great substitute for meat in most meals and they'll fill you up!

2: Utilize cheaper cuts of meat, such as chuck roast and pork shoulder. Since these cuts tend to be a little tougher just cook them low and slow in a crockpot. 

3: Only buy what you'll use before it goes bad. I like to pick 3 different fruits and 3 different veggies and then use them all up before the next shopping trip. Be sure to switch it up too with what fruits and veggies you're eating so as not to get bored!

4: Buy what's in season! Seasonal fruits and veggies are generally cheaper and usually taste better than their off season friends. So be sure to do some research on what's in season in your region. 

5: Eggs, eggs eggs!! Eggs are always your least expensive whole protein option at the store. Even if you're buying organic or pasture raised eggs at $6 /dozen that's still just $0.50/egg! Eggs are great beyond breakfast too, use hard boiled eggs as a quick snack or even whip up a veggie frittata for dinner. 

6: Cook large portions and save half for another meal. This will be sure to minimize waste and stretch your budget because you'll be buying in bulk. 

7: Buy in bulk (which goes back to number 6!). This will allow you to buy at a more inexpensive price and you'll be saving time by making extra for future meals. 

8: Take advantage of frozen fruits and vegetables. These are a great option for saving money and minimizing waste, since they'll keep in the freezer for a long time. 

9: Skip pre made or packaged foods and treats. Not only will this save your wallet, but it's also so much healthier for you! Try making your own protein balls, cookies and other favorite treats and snacks. Have some fun in the kitchen!

10: Minimize food waste by using your freezer more. Before those fruits and veggies you bought go bad, quickly put them into the freezer and save for future meals. You can basically freeze and save most items, food waste is probably the biggest drain on most budgets.