10 Easy & Healthy Recipes Under $10

Eating healthy doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, with a little creativity and planning, you can whip up delicious and nutritious meals for under $10. These recipes are not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor and essential nutrients. Let's dive into 10 easy and healthy recipes that won't leave your wallet feeling empty.

1. Lemony Chickpea Salad Sandwiches

This vibrant salad is a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy lunch or light dinner. It's also incredibly versatile - serve it on bread, wraps, or even lettuce leaves.

Ingredients: Canned chickpeas, lemon juice, olive oil, red onion, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, optional: chopped celery or cucumber
Instructions: Drain and rinse chickpeas. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve on your favorite bread or wrap.

2. One-Pan Roasted Vegetables with Quinoa

This simple one-pan meal is a perfect example of healthy and delicious on a budget. The quinoa provides a complete protein source, and the roasted vegetables are bursting with flavor.

Ingredients: Quinoa, olive oil, your favorite vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, onions, carrots, zucchini), salt, pepper, herbs (rosemary, thyme)
Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Spread quinoa and vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and quinoa is cooked.

3. Black Bean Burgers

These hearty black bean burgers are a delicious alternative to traditional beef burgers. They're packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, and they're incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients: Canned black beans, rolled oats, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper
Instructions: Mash black beans in a bowl. Combine with remaining ingredients and mix well. Form into patties and cook on a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.

4. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Forget the pricey restaurant experience! This sheet pan fajita recipe allows you to enjoy the flavors of Mexican food at home for a fraction of the cost.

Ingredients: Chicken breast, bell peppers, onions, fajita seasoning, olive oil, tortillas, toppings (salsa, sour cream, guacamole)
Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss chicken and vegetables with olive oil and fajita seasoning. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings.

5. Spaghetti Squash with Tomato Sauce

This low-carb and gluten-free recipe is surprisingly satisfying. Spaghetti squash is a great alternative to pasta and is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients: Spaghetti squash, jarred tomato sauce (or your own homemade), fresh basil, Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions: Halve spaghetti squash and scoop out seeds. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F for 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Use a fork to "shred" the squash. Toss with tomato sauce and basil. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

6. Lentil Soup

This hearty soup is packed with protein and fiber, and it's a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Lentils are a super affordable source of plant-based protein.

Ingredients: Lentils, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, salt, pepper
Instructions: Saute onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add lentils, broth, garlic, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Salmon with Roasted Asparagus

This elegant yet simple recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and asparagus is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients: Salmon fillets, asparagus, olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice
Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until tender. Meanwhile, season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.

8. Tuna Salad

This classic lunch staple is quick, easy, and affordable. It's a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients: Canned tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, salt, pepper
Instructions: Drain tuna and combine with mayonnaise, celery, and onion. Season with salt and pepper. Serve on bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves.

9. Avocado Toast

This trendy breakfast or snack is surprisingly filling and nutritious. Avocados are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins.

Ingredients: Whole-wheat toast, avocado, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions: Toast bread. Mash avocado and spread on toast. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.

10. Oatmeal

A classic for a reason, oatmeal is a versatile, budget-friendly breakfast that can be customized to your liking. It's a great source of fiber and keeps you feeling full longer.

Ingredients: Rolled oats, water, milk (dairy or plant-based), salt, toppings (fruit, nuts, seeds, honey)
Instructions: Combine oats, water, milk, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until desired consistency is reached. Top with your favorite toppings.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to get you started. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own delicious and budget-friendly meals.