Budget-Friendly Healthy Dinners 5 Easy Recipes

One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies

This recipe is a classic for a reason! It’s incredibly simple, requiring minimal cleanup. Toss chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks are the most budget-friendly) with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet alongside chopped vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and broccoli. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The lemon and herbs add tons of flavor without breaking the bank, and you get a complete protein and vegetable-packed meal all at once.

Lentil Soup: Hearty and Inexpensive

Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse and incredibly affordable. This soup is perfect for a chilly evening. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot with a little olive oil. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (canned are fine!), and your favorite spices (cumin, turmeric, and curry powder work well). Simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the lentils are tender. Season to taste with salt and pepper. You can add a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor. This recipe easily doubles or triples, making it great for meal prepping.

Black Bean Burgers: A Vegetarian Delight

Forget expensive veggie burgers from the store! Homemade black bean burgers are much cheaper and just as delicious. Mash a can of black beans with breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and a little olive oil. Form into patties and cook in a skillet over medium heat until browned on both sides. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings (lettuce, tomato, avocado if you have some on hand). These are a great source of protein and fiber, and they’re surprisingly satisfying.

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Pasta with Tuna and Cherry Tomatoes: Quick and Easy

This is a speedy weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and budget-friendly. Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. While the pasta is cooking, heat a little olive oil in a pan and sauté some chopped garlic. Add a can of tuna (drained), halved cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of dried oregano or basil. Toss with the cooked pasta and serve. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional) adds a nice touch. This recipe is easily adaptable; you can add other vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach or zucchini.

Chickpea Curry: Flavorful and Filling

Chickpeas are another inexpensive and versatile ingredient. This curry is packed with flavor and is surprisingly easy to make. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a pot with a little olive oil. Add a can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed), diced tomatoes (canned are perfect), coconut milk, curry powder, and your favorite spices (turmeric, cumin, and coriander work well). Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened. Serve over rice or with naan bread (if you’re feeling fancy). This is a great way to use up leftover rice, too! Read also about inexpensive and healthy dinner ideas.

By Milky