When you’re on a budget and shopping for one, it can feel nearly impossible to stock up on healthy foods. Fear not: We did the work for you. Check out our list of 44 tasty and healthy foods that’ll cost you less than a buck per serving.

Note: Prices under $1 are based on units per serving and are followed by national average retail price. Pricing is approximate and will vary by brand and location.

1. Pinto beans

Price: $0.30 per 1/2 cup, $3 per can

If you’re a big fan of ordering refried beans at restaurants, you’ll be glad to hear that they’re a snap to make at home: Just mash pinto beans with garlic and spices on the stove.

Packed with protein and fiber, pinto beans are a delicious and healthy addition to any homemade burrito, soup, or salad. Canned beans are a budget-friendly way to bulk up dinner.

2. Eggs

Price: $0.19 per egg, $3.50 per dozen

When in need of some protein, eggs are a quick fix. Scramble with veggies, add to a crepe, or make a frittata. When in doubt, put an egg on it.

3. Almonds

Price: $0.60 per ounce (20 to 25 nuts), $5 per 8-ounce bag

Grab a small handful of almonds during the day or add to a bowl of cereal or oatmeal for an extra-filling kick of protein and crunch.

Rich in monounsaturated fat and fiber, these super nuts could reduce the risk of diabetes and aid in weight loss.Kamil A, et al. (2012). Health benefits of almonds beyond cholesterol reduction.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22296169

Tired of crunching nuts? Try making almond milk or a recipe using almond flour.

4. Peanuts

Price: $0.50 per ounce (25 to 30 nuts), $4 per 8-ounce bag

Though some peanut butters are packed with sugar, in their natural form, these legumes can be healthy treat. They’re great in trail mixes.

When eaten in moderation, peanuts supply a dose of healthy fats and can reduce the risk of heart disease.Guasch-Ferré M, et al. (2017). Nut consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29145952

5. Chicken breasts

Price: $0.75 for 4-ounces, $2.99 per pound

Forgo fast-food nuggets: A small, fresh chicken breast is cheaper and filled with healthy, lean protein. Make your own gyro with tzatziki or try any of these other non-boring chicken ideas.

6. Black beans

Price: $0.30 per 1/2 cup, $1.50 per can

These unassuming beans pack a ton of fiber, as well as calcium, potassium, and folic acid.

Pro tip: Buy dry beans for an even better deal. Boiling them at home may preserve more of their cancer-fighting antioxidants.Reverri E, et al. (2015). Black beans, fiber, and antioxidant capacity pilot study: Examination of whole foods vs. functional components on postprandial metabolic, oxidative stress, and inflammation in adults with metabolic syndrome
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4555112


Cook up some black bean soup or make a healthy black-bean taco.

7. Lentils

Price: $0.12 per 1/2 cup, $1.50 per pound (dry, in bulk)

These mild legumes add richness to curries and soups, plus act as a great meat replacement for Bolognese sauce or burgers.

Bonus points: Lentils have more protein per pound than beef and are rich with antioxidants, so it might be worth it to trade in that cheeseburger once in a while.Ganesan K, et al. (2017). Polyphenol-rich lentils and their health promoting effects. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5713359

8. Garbanzo beans

Price: $0.30 per 1/2 cup, $3 per can

These little beans (also known as chickpeas) pack a serious amount of fiber. Roast them with olive oil and your favorite spices (think: cumin, paprika, or curry powder) to use as a crouton replacement or blend into DIY hummus.

9. Tofu

Price: $0.20 per ounce, $3 per pound

High in protein and low in fat, tofu is a delicious staple for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Panfry tofu (or tempeh) with veggies in your next stir-fry, scramble extra-firm tofu like eggs, and try the silken variety in a fruit smoothie.

10. Pumpkin seeds

Price: $0.50 per ounce, $6 per pound

Pumpkin seeds (also known as pepitas) go well in a salad, sprinkled on soup, or can be roasted with spices for a crunchy snack. Seeing as they’re filled with essential vitamins and minerals, along with protein and iron, you really can’t go wrong.

11. Oats

Price: $1 per pound (in bulk)

Oats are high in fiber, low in fat, and, like many whole grains, may even help lower cholesterol.Hollænder P, et al. (2015). Whole-grain and blood lipid changes in apparently healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26269373

Don’t be afraid to mix things up with one of these overnight oats recipes or non-oatmeal oats recipes instead.

12. Canned salmon

Price: $0.20 per ounce, $2.50 per 14.75-ounce can

No need to splurge on a salmon fillet to enjoy this seafood packed with omega-3.Omega-3 fatty acids fact sheet. (2019).
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-Consumer/

Grab the canned version for some protein power — without having to dish out big bucks. Then try whipping up a batch of homemade salmon burgers.

13. Canned tuna

Price: $0.30 per ounce, $1.50 per 5-ounce can

Not only is tuna cheap, but it’s another easy way to get omega-3s. Try mixing with hummus or Greek yogurt for a healthier tuna salad, or any of these tuna recipes.

14. Whey protein

Price: $0.75 per scoop, $40 per 3-pound container

Need an extra dose of protein? Add whey protein to a smoothie or bowl of oatmeal, or sneak it into your next batch of brownies.

15. Yogurt

Price: $1 per 6-ounce cup

Pick up a breakfast treat that’s versatile and filled with protein and calcium. Just beware of flavors loaded with extra sugar. Greek yogurt is also awesome — and full of protein and probiotics — but it can be more expensive than our $1 limit.

16. Cottage cheese

Price: $1 per 1/2 cup, $5.50 per 16-ounce container

This soft, mild cheese is surprisingly high in protein and tastes great in both sweet and savory dishes. Try it topped with sliced pineapple and berries or make it savory in a creamy pasta sauce.

17. Milk

Price: $0.25 per cup, $4 per gallon

Add a splash of milk to a fruit smoothie or enjoy it as a classic: over a bowl of cereal. One calcium-filled glass can help keep teeth strong and even stave off excess pounds.Crichton G, et al. (2014). Whole-fat dairy food intake is inversely associated with obesity prevalence: Findings from the observation of cardiovascular risk factors in Luxembourg study
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25159495/

Here are some tips for using and storing this pantry staple.

18. Brown rice

Price: $0.18 per 1/4 cup, $2 per pound

Use instead of white rice in any recipe (note that cooking times differ) for a more exciting flavor and texture. This whole-grain version of rice is full of fiber and may lower the risk of diabetes.Sun Q, et al. (2010). White rice, brown rice, and risk of type 2 diabetes in US men and women
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3024208

19. Whole-wheat pasta

Price: $0.37 per 1/2 cup, $3 per box

Enjoy whole-wheat pasta’s nutty flavor paired with sautéed veggies and a fresh tomato sauce. Not only is the whole-wheat version of pasta more complex in taste, it’s packed with fiber, antioxidants, and protein, and it may even help lower the risk of heart disease.Aune D, et al. (2016). Whole grain consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all cause and cause specific mortality: systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective studies. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4908315/

20. Popcorn

Price: $0.30 per 1/2 cup, $1 per pound for kernels

Popcorn is a low calorie snack that’s also a good source of fiber. Pop kernels on the stove or in a paper bag in the microwave, and then top with your fave spices, like taco seasoning or cinnamon.

21. Quinoa

Price: $0.60 per 1/4 cup, $5 per 12-ounce box

Rich in protein and fiber, quinoa is a great addition to sweet granola bowls and veggie-filled salads or serve as a side instead of pasta.

22. Grapes

Price: $0.75 per cup, $1.50 per pound

Add sliced grapes to salads instead of sugar-filled dried fruit or freeze them for a refreshing summer snack. It’ll be well worth it: These tiny fruits are high in antioxidants that may help reduce cholesterol.Liu Q, et al. (2018). Comparison of antioxidant activities of different grape varieties.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6222363

Try this 7-day menu of grape recipes.

23. Watermelon

Price: $0.30 per cup, $5 per melon

This summer-friendly fruit might is packed with vitamin C. Slice and enjoy in some fruit salads or mixed into water for a flavor punch.

24. Bananas

Price: $0.50 per banana, $2 per bunch

Filled with fiber and potassium, these 100-calorie snacks are any easy grab-and-go treat. Enjoy sliced with your favorite nut butter or blend frozen bananas into creamy single-ingredient ice cream.

25. Kiwi

Price: $0.40 per kiwi

Did you know kiwis are actually berries? Start snacking because they’re packed with vitamin C and fiber. Add a kiwi to your next fruit salad or granola bowl, or enjoy straight up with a spoon.

26. Cantaloupe

Price: $0.50 per 1/2 cup, $3 per small melon

Cantaloupe makes a perfect spring or summer treat. The antioxidant-packed fruit pairs well with yogurt, can be frozen as a DIY popsicle, or juiced.

27. Apples

Price: $0.75 per apple

An apple a day, right? Apples have plenty of antioxidants and are an easy staple to keep around the house. Eat them plain, smear with a nut butter, bake ’em hot, or pair with a few cubes of cheese for a protein- and carb-rich snack — perfect post-workout.

28. Pears

Price: $0.85 each, $1.75 per pound

Pears are high in fiber and antioxidants and come in varieties like Bartlett, Bosc, and Anjou. They’re a perfect match for fall-themed recipes.

29. Oranges

Price: $0.50 each, $1 per pound

Oranges might get talked about for their vitamin C content, but they’re also strong in fiber, folate, and potassium. If you’d rather go with the juice, skip the carton and squeeze your own to make sure you’re not downing any unnecessary sugar.

30. Garlic

Price: $0.30 per bulb

Add minced garlic to any pan of sautéed vegetables or roast whole in the oven for a sweeter flavor, and then blend into salad dressings and dips. In addition to its vitamins and minerals, garlic may help reduce your likelihood of catching a cold.Nantz M, et al. (2012). Supplementation with aged garlic extract improves both NK and γδ-T cell function and reduces the severity of cold and flu symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled nutrition intervention. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22280901

31. Canned pumpkin

Price: $0.75 per 1/2 cup, about $2.50 per 15-ounce can

Pumpkin’s orange color comes from carotenoids, a plant pigment with powerful antioxidant properties.Cho K, et al. (2018). Recent advances in studies on the therapeutic potential of dietary carotenoids in neurodegenerative diseases. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5926482 Add canned pumpkin to sweet or savory recipes — smoothies, muffins, veggie burgers, curries, and more.

32. Canned tomatoes

Price: $0.50 per 1/2 cup, $1.80 per 14.8-ounce can

Tomatoes retain exceptional amounts of the antioxidant lycopene, which can be beneficial for vascular health.Mozos I, et al. (2018). Lycopene and vascular health. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5974099

Canned tomatoes are perfect for homemade sauces and stews, but be on the lookout for cans with no added sodium or sugar.

33. Onions

Price: $0.18 each, $0.59 per pound

Use along with garlic as an aromatic base for stir-fries, stews, and sauces; or sauté until golden and sweet, then add to salads, pastas, or sandwiches. Onions pack a surprisingly nutritious punch, including a hefty dose of antioxidants.Nicastro H, et al. (2015). Garlic and onions: Their cancer prevention properties. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4366009

Here’s how to cut one without crying.

34. Carrots

Price: $0.50 each, $2 per pound

Raw carrot sticks are perfect for dipping into hummus or nut butters (don’t knock it ’til you try it!) and taste great roasted with other root veggies and a drizzle of olive oil. That nutritious crunch comes with tons of beta-carotene, useful for healthy skin and immune systems.Grune T, et al. (2010). β-Carotene is an important vitamin A source for humans.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3139236

35. Winter squash

Price: $0.50 per 1/2 cup, $1.50 per pound

Squash is a versatile veggie filled with vitamins, fiber, and potassium. Roast a squash and fill it with whole grains, like brown rice or quinoa and veggies. Top with Greek yogurt or part-skim ricotta for a hearty vegetarian dinner — no bowls needed. Or try roasting it as a base for vegetarian tacos.

36. Kale

Price: $0.50 per cup (raw, chopped), $2 per bunch

Kale is an antioxidant king among fruits and veggies and contains vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, calcium, iron, and potassium. Bonus: kale chips. Need we say more?

37. Beets

Price: $0.35 each, $1 per pound

These naturally sweet magenta gems are filled with betalains, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properites.Li G, et al. (2019). Research progress of betalain in response to adverse stresses and evolutionary relationship compared with anthocyanin. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6749444 Roast with olive oil for salads or as a side dish, add to a smoothie, or make it into a pizza crust.

38. Broccoli

Price: $0.50 per 1/2 cup, $2 per bunch

Broccoli has high levels of folate and vitamin C, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.Yuan G, et al. (2009). Effects of different cooking methods on health-promoting compounds of broccoli.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2722699
This veggie tastes amazing blended in soup, stuffed into potatoes, tossed into frittatas, or roasted with a bit of garlic and olive oil.

39. Spinach

Price: $0.50 per cup, $2 per bunch

Replace lettuce with spinach in salads for added nutritional benefits or add a few handfuls into your morning smoothie. These mild-tasting greens are nutrient-dense with vitamins A, K, and calcium.

Here are some ways to use up that bag you probably have in the fridge.

40. Sweet potatoes

Price: $0.50 each, $1 per pound

Try this healthy alternative in place of a bread slice the next time you’re whipping up an avocado toast recipe. Sweet potatoes have high levels of vitamin A and calcium, plus they’re lower in carbohydrates than their white counterparts (just in case you’re counting).

Studies also show the root veggie has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties.Mohanraj R, et al. (2014). Sweet potato (Ipomoea Batatas [L.] Lam)–a valuable medicinal food: A review. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24921903

41. Edamame

Price: $0.50 per 1/2 cup, $3 per 10-ounce frozen package

Skip the chips and enjoy edamame steamed with a touch of salt. These bite-size legumes are filled with fiber and protein, which make for a great afternoon snack. Toss them into salads, too, for some added texture.

42. Coffee

Price: $0.40 per 16-ounce cup brewed at home, $10 per pound

Not only is it good for you, but brewing coffee at home can save some serious cash. This morning pick-me-up also contains antioxidants that help protect your heart.

A small amount can be a great pre-workout choice to help increase endurance (just make sure you limit yourself to about a half cup).

43. Tea

Price: $0.10 per tea bag, $5 per box

There are plenty of health benefits linked to tea, ranging from lowering risks of depression and strokes to reducing chances of getting certain liver diseases. It may even help you maintain a healthy weight.Koithan M, et al. (2010). Using herbal remedies to maintain optimal weight.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20802831/

Skip the sugary stuff and brew iced tea at home, and opt for the green or white tea varieties if you’re looking to maximize antioxidant intake. Check out this guide for making the perfect cup.

44. Water

Price: Free (… kind of). Head to the nearest faucet: Our bodies depend on it. Water keeps us hydrated, flushes out toxins, and helps keep you full between meals. It’s also a lifesaver for skin health.

Still need more proof? Check out one of these science-backed reasons water is awesome.

When it comes to healthy snacking, there’s no reason to overspend. Stocking up on healthy, whole food favorites will keep you full and your wallet unharmed.