With all the food prices going higher and higher I went to the store to find 10 meals for only $5! If you are looking for quick easy …

source

10 Meals for $5: Quick and Easy Cheap Dinner Ideas

In today’s fast-paced world, finding affordable meals can be a challenge. Fortunately, it is possible to whip up delicious dinners that won’t break the bank. With a little creativity and some budget-friendly ingredients, you can enjoy meals for just $5 or less! Here are ten quick and easy dinner ideas that are both economical and satisfying.

1. Vegetable Stir-Fry

For a vibrant and healthy meal, all you need is a bag of frozen mixed vegetables ($1.50) and a pack of instant ramen noodles ($0.50). Stir-fry the vegetables in a little oil and serve them over cooked noodles. Add some soy sauce for flavor, and you have a nutritious and filling dinner for under $2!

2. Egg Fried Rice

Turn leftover rice into a delightful dinner with just a few ingredients. Scramble two eggs ($0.50) in a pan, add 2 cups of cooked rice ($0.50) and some frozen peas and carrots ($1). Season with soy sauce and sesame oil, and you’ll have a hearty meal for about $2.50.

3. Tuna Salad Wraps

Canned tuna ($1) is a great source of protein. Mix it with mayonnaise ($0.50) and diced pickles ($0.50). Spread the mixture onto a tortilla ($0.50) or lettuce leaves and add some sliced tomatoes ($1). These wraps can be made for around $3.50.

4. Pasta Primavera

Pasta ($1) is a versatile staple! Cook a half-pound of pasta and toss it with sautéed seasonal vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini, $2). Drizzle with olive oil ($0.50) and season with salt and pepper for a fresh, healthy meal for about $4.

5. Chickpea Curry

Canned chickpeas ($1) are both filling and nutritious. Sauté some onions ($0.50) and garlic ($0.50), then add the chickpeas and a can of diced tomatoes ($1). Season with curry powder and serve over rice ($1). This hearty meal can be made for around $4.

6. Homemade Quesadillas

Grab some tortillas ($0.50) and cheese ($1.50). You can add beans ($0.50) or leftover chicken ($1.50) for extra protein. Cook them in a skillet until golden and crispy. Pair with salsa ($1) for a tasty meal that costs roughly $5.

7. Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

Slice up a quarter of a head of cabbage ($0.50) and a pack of smoked sausage ($2). Sauté together with onions ($0.50) in a skillet. This hearty dish is full of flavor and can be made for around $3.

8. Black Bean Tacos

Canned black beans ($1) are a great base for tacos. Heat them up with some taco seasoning ($0.50) and fill corn tortillas ($1) with the mixture. Top with cheese ($1) and any veggies you have on hand (lettuce or tomatoes; $1). This delicious meal totals about $5.

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Buy two bell peppers ($2) and fill them with a mixture of rice ($1) and canned tomatoes ($1). Bake until the peppers are tender for a colorful and nutritious dish at around $4.

10. Potato and Broccoli Soup

Use potatoes ($1.50) and broccoli ($1.50) to create a creamy soup. Boil chopped potatoes until tender, then blend with cooked broccoli and add vegetable broth ($1). Season as desired for a comforting meal that’s about $4.

Conclusion

Eating budget-friendly meals doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or nutrition. With these quick and easy dinner ideas, you can create delicious meals for $5 or less! Focus on versatile ingredients, and don’t hesitate to swap in what you have on hand. Happy cooking!