Top 5 Budget-Friendly Meals for Two
Cooking for two doesn’t have to be expensive. With some creativity and proper planning, you can whip up delicious, filling meals without breaking the bank. Here are five budget-friendly meal ideas that are both easy to prepare and delightful to enjoy together.
1. Chickpea Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 can of chickpeas
- 2 cups assorted vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooked rice or quinoa
Instructions:
- In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped vegetables and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Add the drained chickpeas and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Serve over cooked rice or quinoa.
Cost: Approximately $5
2. Pasta Primavera
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add mixed vegetables and sauté until tender.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture and serve with Parmesan.
Cost: Approximately $7
3. Vegetable and Bean Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 onion
- Chili powder, cumin, and salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a pot, sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until soft.
- Add beans, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally with bread.
Cost: Approximately $6
4. Egg Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (leftover rice works well)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Green onions (optional)
Instructions:
- In a pan, scramble the eggs and set aside.
- In the same pan, stir-fry the mixed vegetables until heated through.
- Add the rice and soy sauce, mixing well. Stir in the scrambled eggs and heat thoroughly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cost: Approximately $4
5. Lentil Salad with Feta
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup feta cheese
- Olive oil and lemon juice for dressing
Instructions:
- Cook the lentils according to package instructions and let them cool.
- In a bowl, combine lentils, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss to combine.
Cost: Approximately $5
Conclusion
Eating well on a budget is definitely achievable with these simple meals. Not only are they economical, but they also provide various nutrients and flavors, making them enjoyable for both your palate and your wallet. With a little planning and creativity, you can create satisfying meals that won’t empty your pockets. Happy cooking!
