Cheap Low Calorie Meals For One

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Eating healthy on a budget can be a real challenge. But it is possible with some careful planning and a few tricks up your sleeve. Low calorie meals for one doesn’t have to be boring or expensive. With the right ingredients, you can create nutritious, delicious and affordable meals that you can enjoy day after day. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Shop Around for the Best Prices

Do your homework and shop around for the best prices on healthy ingredients. Try to buy fruits and vegetables in season to get the most for your money. Check out the weekly specials at local supermarkets and compare prices online. Buy in bulk when you can and freeze what you don’t use right away. Buy whole foods, such as legumes and grains, rather than processed foods as they are usually much cheaper and healthier.

Make the Most of Leftovers

If you are cooking for one person, chances are you will have leftovers. Make the most of them by creating a new meal with the leftovers. Soups, casseroles and salads are all great options. You can also freeze the leftovers to have on hand for busy nights. For example, if you cooked a large batch of roasted vegetables, you can make a healthy wrap with the leftovers the next day.

Choose Simple, Low Calorie Recipes

When it comes to cooking for one, simple is usually best. Choose recipes with a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. If you are short on time, opt for dishes that can be put together quickly, such as salads, stir-fries, omelets and sandwiches. You can also make big batches of one-pot meals on the weekend that you can freeze and enjoy throughout the week.

Make Use of Frozen and Canned Foods

Frozen and canned foods are great for single people as they can be bought in smaller quantities and stored for a longer period of time. Frozen vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, peas and spinach, are just as nutritious as fresh and are often cheaper. Canned beans, lentils and chickpeas are also great for creating nutritious meals. Choose low-sodium varieties and rinse them before using.

Add Flavour Without Adding Calories

Fresh herbs and spices can add a lot of flavour to low calorie meals without adding a lot of calories. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find a combination that you like. A few of our favourites are dill, cumin, basil, paprika, turmeric, oregano and garlic. You can also add flavour with condiments such as mustard, balsamic vinegar, salsa and low-sodium soy sauce.