Really Filling Low Calorie Meals

How to Eat Healthy on a Budget

Eating healthy can be a challenge, especially when you’re on a budget. Low calorie meals often require more expensive ingredients like fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. But with a little creativity, you can make delicious and nutritious meals that won’t break the bank. Here are some tips for creating really filling low-calorie meals.

Plan Ahead

Meal planning is key to eating healthy on a budget. Take a little time each week to plan out meals for the week ahead. Make a grocery list based on the recipes you plan to make, and stick to it. This will help you avoid buying unnecessary items and save money. Also, look for items that are on sale or in season, which can help stretch your budget.

Make Big Batches

Making big batches of meals can save you time and money. You can cook a large batch of grains like quinoa or brown rice and use it throughout the week. You can also make soups or stews that last several days. This takes some of the stress out of cooking and saves you from having to buy multiple ingredients each week.

Go for Simple Ingredients

When you’re making healthy meals on a budget, it’s important to keep the ingredients simple. Stick to items like beans, lentils, potatoes, onions, garlic, and frozen vegetables. These ingredients are generally inexpensive and can be used to create a variety of healthy meals. You can also buy in bulk, which can help you save money in the long run.

Avoid Pre-Packaged Foods

Pre-packaged foods are often loaded with unhealthy additives and preservatives, which can be expensive and unhealthy. Instead, opt for fresh ingredients like fruits and vegetables, which are much cheaper and healthier. You can also buy frozen fruits and vegetables, which are just as nutritious as fresh and usually less expensive.

Use Leftovers

Leftovers are a great way to stretch your budget and create really filling low calorie meals. You can use leftover grains, proteins and vegetables to create new dishes. For example, you can turn a leftover roasted chicken into a healthy soup or stew. You can also use leftovers to create sandwiches, wraps or tacos. The possibilities are endless.