From Pantry to Plate: 5 Budget Meals for Under $5.
Cooking delicious, healthy meals doesn’t have to mean an expensive grocery bill. With a little creativity and simple pantry staples, you can whip up satisfying meals for under $5 per serving.
These five easy recipes prove that eating well on a budget is totally doable—fast, filling, and full of flavor!
Classic Veggie Fried Rice ($4.50 total, 20 min)Turn leftover rice into a delicious meal by stir-frying it with frozen mixed vegetables, scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and garlic. Quick, balanced, and packed with fiber and protein!
Black Bean & Sweet Potato Tacos ($4 total, 25 min)Roast diced sweet potatoes with cumin and chili powder, then stuff them into corn tortillas with canned black beans, onions, and a squeeze of lime for a budget-friendly, nutrient-rich meal.
Hearty Lentil Soup ($5 total, 30 min)Simmer lentils with canned tomatoes, carrots, onions, and a pinch of cumin for a thick, protein-packed soup. Serve with a slice of toast for a filling meal that costs next to nothing.
Garlic Spinach Pasta ($4.25 total, 20 min)Cook pasta and toss it with sautéed garlic, olive oil, and fresh or frozen spinach. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan (optional) for a simple yet flavorful dish.
Chickpea & Cucumber Salad ($4 total, 10 min)Mix canned chickpeas with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, lemon juice, and olive oil for a refreshing, protein-rich salad that’s perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Eating well on a budget is possible! These meals are quick, easy, and packed with flavor—without breaking the bank.