Over time, individuals have realized that they can work full time, have a family, pursue education, and take care of their homes. One way families have been able to save time and money is by purchasing and cooking affordable meals at home. The following affordable meal options are healthy, easy to prepare, and will save you extra cash from ordering out all the time:

1. Veggie stir fry
This dish is not only affordable and tasty, but it only takes minutes to prepare. The Stir Fry technique is originally a Chinese cooking technique that gained widespread popularity in many countries. The main ingredients for a veggie stir fry meal are pak choi, cabbage, carrot, garlic ginger, soy sauce, and oil. However, you can add any vegetables you wish to create your vegetable stir fry. What makes this dish so healthy are the vegetables and the small portion of oil used. The oil should be just enough to grease your wok or pot and saute the minced garlic and ginger. Once you add the remaining ingredients, the vegetables should be cooked until it is tender.

2. Black beans and rice
Black beans and rice are very popular across Latin and Caribbean countries. While it does sound like a basic dish, it can be prepared in various ways using authentic herbs and seasonings to make a delicious, well-rounded meal. Many people soak the black bean overnight to soften them, then cook them in a large portion of water; you can also cook the beans in a pressure cooker to save time. But for a very easy and quick dish, canned beans can be used. Once you have sauteed your favorite spices and herbs, add your uncooked rice and continue to stir. After this step, water or whatever type of stock you wish should be added along with the drained beans.

3. Spaghetti with marinara
This dish is a favorite for many families worldwide because it is delicious and easy to prepare. The main ingredients of the marinara sauce are tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. However, you can add some of your favorite ingredients to this meal that your family will enjoy. Once you have cooked the spaghetti until tender and drained and put aside, you can add the marinara sauce or saute additional vegetables or ingredients that your family may like and add the marinara sauce. After the marinara sauce has simmered with the additional ingredients, then the spaghetti should be stirred in and then served. On each plate, you can sprinkle herbs or parmesan cheese on the top of the meal and serve.

4. Crockpot chili
Another easy but tasty dish is crockpot chili, which is most popularly prepared with ground beef, a healthy meat option. In a large or medium pot, cook the ground beef until it is brown, and ensure that you crumble the beef. While the beef cooks, you will need to drain the excess fat, followed by adding a portion of your favorite seasonings along with the chili while stirring continuously. After stirring for a few minutes, add beef stock, your selection of beans, crushed and diced tomatoes, and additional seasoning and herbs. Cover the pot, adjust your heat to low, and simmer until the chili has reached the desired taste and consistency. The chili should be served hot with sour cream, corn chips, or any other condiments to your family’s preference.

5. Stovetop mac and cheese
Kids generally love mac and cheese, and because it can be prepared in minutes, parents love to prepare it as well. After cooking the macaroni shells on the stove, the water should be drained from the pot. After draining the macaroni, add butter and milk, followed by the cheese powder. If the pack of mac and cheese comes with a cheese sauce, you may not need to add butter and milk. This meal typically takes less than 30 minutes to prepare; however, you can try adding additional ingredients or extra shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for variety. You can select gluten-free macaroni shells for a more healthy and nutritional option or add vegetables to your mac and cheese.

With so many options that enable you to cook healthy and affordable meals, you will save money and time. After a long day, ordering out is an attractive and convenient option. However, we encourage you to try cooking one of the meal options listed above at least once per week and try varieties of other easy and affordable meals that your family will enjoy.