Cooking healthy meals on a budget is easier with a few practical strategies:

1. **Plan Your Meals**: Create a weekly menu to avoid impulse buys and reduce food waste. Plan meals around affordable, nutritious staples like rice, beans, and seasonal vegetables.

2. **Buy in Bulk**: Purchase items like grains, lentils, and frozen vegetables in bulk, which saves money and stretches ingredients across multiple meals.

3. **Use Affordable Protein Sources**: Incorporate budget-friendly proteins like eggs, beans, lentils, and canned tuna, which provide essential nutrients without breaking the bank.

4. **Cook in Batches**: Prepare larger portions and freeze leftovers for quick, healthy meals later, saving both time and money.

5. **Shop Seasonal and Local**: Seasonal produce is often cheaper and fresher. Check local farmers’ markets for deals.

With planning and mindful shopping, you can prepare nutritious, budget-friendly meals that support a healthy lifestyle.