Cheap and Healthy Meals for the Week, Done in 1 Hour

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can create delicious and nutritious meals that won’t break the bank or take hours to prepare. Here are some ideas for cheap and healthy meals that can be made in one hour or less.

Vegetarian Chili

Vegetarian chili is a great way to get your protein and fiber without breaking the bank. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a large pot. Add a can of black beans, a can of diced tomatoes, and a can of corn. For extra flavor, add chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Simmer for 30 minutes and serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Taco Salad

Taco salad is a great way to get your veggies and protein in one dish. Start by browning ground beef or turkey in a skillet. Add a packet of taco seasoning and a can of black beans. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, bell peppers, and shredded cheese. Top with the beef and bean mixture and serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Veggie Stir-Fry

Veggie stir-fry is a great way to get your veggies in without spending a lot of money. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a large skillet. Add a bag of frozen stir-fry vegetables and a can of diced tomatoes. For extra flavor, add soy sauce, ginger, and garlic powder. Simmer for 15 minutes and serve over brown rice.

Veggie Burgers

Veggie burgers are a great way to get your protein without spending a lot of money. Start by combining cooked quinoa, black beans, and diced vegetables in a food processor. Form the mixture into patties and cook in a skillet until golden brown. Serve on a whole wheat bun with lettuce, tomato, and avocado.

Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is a great way to get your veggies and carbs in one dish. Start by cooking a box of whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions. In a large skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Add a can of diced tomatoes and a bag of frozen vegetables. Simmer for 15 minutes and serve over the cooked pasta.

Veggie Quesadillas

Veggie quesadillas are a great way to get your veggies and protein in one dish. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a large skillet. Add a can of black beans and a bag of frozen corn. For extra flavor, add chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Place the mixture in a whole wheat tortilla and top with shredded cheese. Cook in a skillet until golden brown and serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cilantro.

FAQs

Q: What are some healthy meals that can be made in one hour or less?

A: Vegetarian chili, taco salad, veggie stir-fry, veggie burgers, pasta primavera, and veggie quesadillas are all healthy meals that can be made in one hour or less.

Q: What are some tips for making healthy meals on a budget?

A: Some tips for making healthy meals on a budget include buying in bulk, using frozen vegetables, and using canned beans and tomatoes. Additionally, using whole grains, such as brown rice and quinoa, can help stretch your budget.

Q: What are some healthy ingredients to use in meals?

A: Some healthy ingredients to use in meals include lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, and beans; whole grains, such as brown rice and quinoa; and fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Additionally, adding herbs and spices can add flavor without adding calories.