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. Share on Pinterest 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.

Dairy 15. Yogurt Share on Pinterest 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.

Whole grains 18. Brown rice Share on Pinterest 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.

Fruit 22. Grapes Share on Pinterest 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 Share on Pinterest 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.

Drinks 42. Coffee Share on Pinterest 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.