Most people want to feed their family healthy recipes. Everyone knows that healthy food or organic food is usually the pricier option. When it comes to feeding a family and as your kids grow, your grocery bill grows as well. It is hard to find healthy food choices and healthy recipes on a limited budget. So, here are healthy food ideas for a tight budget.
1. Find healthy recipes for your budget.
There are many different healthy food recipes online some for a specific price like $3 or $4 a meal. There are different types of food recipes. For example, you can find recipes for cooking with grains or beans to save money and bulk up your meals in a healthy way for your family. There are recipes for vegetarian diets on a budget and healthy diet plans on a budget to help you lose weight.
You can check out our list of Healthy Recipes and Ideas we have posted for some inspiration!
2. Buy from your local farmer’s market.
Buying from your local farmer’s market can save you lots of money, especially if you freeze some of it for later. It is a great way to support your community and get fresh fruits and vegetables for a great deal. The produce from the farmer’s market is fresher, tastier and without all the pesticides and chemicals.
3. Buy frozen veggies.
Buying frozen veggies is much more affordable and a great option for buying healthy food on a budget. Frozen veggies are still good options for vitamins, minerals, and fiber that they contain. Just because they are cooked and frozen doesn’t mean they are not good for you.
4. Buy in bulk.
Buying in bulk, especially if the item is on sale is a great way to save money. Be sure to separate items and put it in serving size options for later. If you have a membership to a store like Costco or Sam’s Club you can buy items in bulk for less.
PRO TIP: If you don’t have a large family or don’t use enough of an item to buy in bulk consider splitting the cost of a wholesale membership with a family member or neighbor and splitting items you purchase in half. This is especially helpful on items like spices, flour, sugar and other staples that you may not want in huge quantities.
5. Cook in bulk and freeze.
Cooking in bulk and freezing your meals is a great way to save time and money. I have 3 different Freezer Meal Plans available here that include the shopping lists, recipes and even step by step video tutorials. It takes a few hours of work but then you have healthy meals already prepared and ready to heat up easily. It takes making a plan, having your healthy recipes and making the time to shop in advanced but is worth it. Don’t forget to write the date on the zip lock bags so you don’t leave meals too long in the freezer and end up just throwing it away.
6. Shop at outlet or discount grocery stores.
Shopping at outlet or discount grocery stores is another great option for buying healthy food for less. You have to be careful because sometimes the foods have gone past the expiration date. You don’t have to completely ignore items that are expired, for example, bread is still fine a little past the sell by date. Just check the foods for color, smell, appearance and avoid foods that can cause harm or problems if expired, like seafood.
7. Shop online.
Shopping online for healthy food options may seem a little unconventional but you can actually save a lot of money this way. A great option is, for example, shopping on Amazon for grocery items. You can save money by filling a box to be shipped for one shipping price or joining the subscribe and save. Using the subscribe and save option you get free shipping and up to 15% off of your order monthly or bimonthly. You set how often you want to receive your items and can make changes anytime you want.
8. Write out a healthy menu plan.
Writing out a healthy menu plan will save you money, time and frustration. If you make a menu plan, then you can make an accurate grocery list. If you stick with your list and not give into temptation you will be on your way to shopping for healthy food and saving money.
9. Shop for cheaper meat options.
Shopping for cheaper meat options can save money while still getting the protein your family needs. If you choose a good recipe and cook the meat well your family will not even notice the change. Try using a recipe you know your family will like but hasn’t tried before.
10. Cook meals in your crock pot.
Cooking meals in your crock pot is an easy way to make amazing and healthy meals for your family. If you double the recipe you can freeze half of it for another day. Crock pot meals are a great option for the less expensive meat options because the meat cooks tender, juicy and tasty.
11. Don’t be afraid to try something new and different.
Don’t be afraid to try something new and different. It helps to change up the menu and shop for healthy foods that are on sale while you’re at it. Trying new recipes is very important for kids as well, to expand their palette and help them not become picky eaters.
A well rounded healthy menu including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, beans, and meats is important for your family’s growth and development. It is possible to buy healthy food on a budget by planning ahead, shopping smart, freezing meals and trying new recipes. Helping your kids have a wide variety of healthy food choices, that they like to eat is possible, as well. Trying different healthy recipes and foods often will help your family will grow strong. Sticking to your healthy food budget plan will help ensure your family’s physical and financial health and well-being.