Meal Planning on a Budget TV Segment: Simple Recipes That Save You Money

As a holistic nutritionist, I’m excited to share some of my favourite tips for cutting down on grocery costs while still getting all the nourishment you need to stay energized and healthy throughout your busy day. I shared my meal planning on budget tips on Global News Morning on January 13, 2025. You can watch the segment and get three quick, easy, and budget-friendly recipes that are not only kind to your wallet but also full of nutrition.

Eating well doesn’t have to be expensive! I’m excited to share my favourite tricks to lower your grocery bill without sacrificing nutrition. I have three quick and easy recipes that save you a ton of money when you make them at home rather than buy them pre-packaged. Watch the full segment here.

But before I get to that, I wanted to talk about how meal planning is the best way to save you money.

Meal Planning Made Simple

A great way to keep your grocery budget in check is by meal planning. When you plan your meals ahead of time, you’ll avoid the temptation of takeout and last-minute grocery store splurges. Plus, meal planning ensures you only buy what you need, so those fresh ingredients won’t go to waste. I’ve created a free, printable meal-planning template to help make the process even easier for you. Get your FREE Meal Planning Template here.

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Meal Planning on a Budget Recipes

Chocolate Lover’s Granola

This granola is perfect for those mornings when you’re craving a little chocolate, but don’t want the guilt. Naturally sweetened with just a small amount of maple syrup, this recipe is packed with fiber and protein thanks to lots of nuts and seeds. The cocoa powder, cacao nibs, and goji berries add a burst of antioxidants, making this a nutritious, delicious way to start your day. What’s great about this recipe is its flexibility—just head to your local bulk food store to pick up your favourite nuts, oats, and dried fruit. It’s a simple and cost-effective option that you can enjoy anytime.

Get the full recipe here.

Homemade Broth

If you’ve ever bought organic vegetable or chicken broth, you know it can cost around $6 or more. But did you know you can make your own for free? I like to keep a big freezer bag full of veggie scraps and chicken bones, saving things like carrot tips, celery ends, parsley stems, onion ends, and even mushroom stems. When I’m ready to make broth, I just toss everything into a pot, cover it with water, and let it simmer for a few hours. Not only is this an easy way to reduce food waste, but it also gives you a rich, flavorful broth for soups, stews, or sauces—all without spending extra money.

Find the full recipe here.

Simple Homemade Hummus

Hummus is such a great snack—packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats. But buying pre-made hummus can be pricey. You can make your own in just 5 minutes for a fraction of the cost. All you need are a few simple ingredients, and you’ll have double the amount of hummus for a lot less than what you’d pay for a tiny container in the store. It’s a perfect option for a filling, energy-boosting snack, and it also keeps well in the fridge for several days.

Ingredients

• 2 garlic cloves
• 19oz (540ml) cans of chickpeas rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (1 lemon)
• 4 Tbsp tahini
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3-6 Tbsp water

Directions

1. Place garlic in a large food processor and pulse until it is coarsely chopped.
2. Add the remaining ingredients, except for the water, and process until smooth. Water will make the hummus creamier, so add it slowly until you reach the desired texture.

With these simple, affordable recipes and meal-planning tips, you can enjoy nourishing meals that don’t cost a fortune. Eating well is about making the most of what you have and being mindful of your choices—and it’s easier than you think.