How to eat clean on a tight budget

As I've posted in the past, I am always on a tight budget. Eating clean can be a challenge when moneys tight. If I had an expendable income I would buy grass fed beef, hormone free chicken, organic fruits and veggies, and many varieties of expensive nut butters. Buuuut I don't so unfortunately I can't buy that kind of stuff! One day I will be able to purchase those things but for now I make due and try to be as healthy as I can.

I do NOT however purchase frozen meals, boxed snacks, or any other cheap convenience foods.

Here are my top 3 tips to shop on a budget:

1.Go shopping when you have time and a plan.
Going to the store when you're in a rush can result in spending more money on things you don't need and forgetting the things you do.
 Make a list of the things you need and what stores you need to go to. When you go to the store try not to buy anything extra. Have a dollar amount in mind when you go shopping. I usually try to stay under $50 a week for Robbie and I.

2. Look for sales and deals. I usually always get produce on sale. Another great place for produce is a farmers market. You can also take part in bountiful baskets. You can sign up online and for about $15 get a large amount of produce. You can pay extra for organic as well.

I always get sales on meat. Meat is where I spend the bulk of my budget so if there are good deals I buy extra and freeze it so I never run low. Often times I find "manager's specials" on meat. As long as you get it in the freezer ASAP you can use it whenever you want. This allows me to get lean meats for a good price.

I get my frozen veggies usually on sale at Frys for $1. They are the kind you have to boil on the stove. It's takes a little more time than the Steamer veggies you can make in the microwave but those can cost up to $3 a bag! I also buy the Kroger brand plain greek yogurt. It's way cheaper than Fage or Chobani and just as good nutrition wise. I often grab a small bag of frozen berries for cheap as well if prooduce is not on sale that week to add to my yogurt or cottage cheese.

3. If you can afford it, get a Costco membership. I get my eggs from there for really cheap. I also love their frozen individually wrapped chicken and tilapia!

Pictured above are all the  groceries I bought for a total of just over $31

I hope this helps some of you out there struggling to buy food on a budget. If you go in with a plan, budget and list you can't go wrong. Always shop the perimeters of the store and avoid the boxed crap.

Happy Shopping!

XoXo,

E