The following foods are easy on your wallet and taste delicious. Foods that last a while in your fridge or pantry give you the chance to get your money's worth. These healthy, inexpensive options are terrific for meal planning on a budget.  

Cheapest vegetables

Vegetables that spoil before you eat them feels like throwing dollars in the dumpster. The following vegetables are not just cost-effective, they also keep in your fridge or on your countertop for several days – giving you enough time to actually eat them.

1. Broccoli
2. Cabbage
3. Canned corn
4. Canned green beans
5. Canned tomatoes
6. Carrots
7. Onions
8. Potatoes
9. Sweet potatoes

Budget-friendly fruits

Fruits give you fiber and a whole bunch of vitamins and nutrients. The following fruits are usually cost-effective, and the list grows when you consider seasonal fruits too. See more inexpensive fruits ranked by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

10. Apples
11. Bananas
12. Cantaloupes
13. Oranges
14. Watermelons

Inexpensive sources of protein

Plant-based proteins like legumes and beans can save you money. You could try black bean tacos instead of beef, or white bean pasta instead of chicken. Canned fish is also cheaper than fresh and gives you essential omega-3 fatty acids. 

15. Black beans
16. Canned salmon
17. Canned tuna
18. Edamame
19. Eggs
20. Greek yogurt
21. Lentils

Affordable plant-based grains

Having these plant-based pantry staples makes it easy to pull together a quick meal. What's more, you can stock up when you find a good deal. Look for whole wheat or multigrain over processed grains – the additional fiber will keep you feeling full longer.

22. Brown rice
23. Multigrain pasta
24. Oats and oatmeal
25. Quinoa
26. Whole wheat bread
27. Whole wheat flour