Just because you have a small, college-sized budget does not mean you can’t enjoy a healthy salad as a side dish or main course. Use our guide below to amp up your salads and make them a healthy and affordable alternative. Salads are also great for on-the-go meals, as they come together in no time flat. Keep a variety of the ingredients listed below on hand so you can throw together a salad any time of the day.
The basis for all of these salads is going to be lettuce. Watch out, though, because you could break the bank on this first ingredient if you are not careful. Fancy lettuce can cost a fortune when you are shopping your produce department. The secret is to buy whatever fancy lettuce you like on sale and mix it half and half with iceberg lettuce. This gives you the taste you crave but makes your dollar stretch even further.
Now that we have the basics covered, let’s pour on the ingredients. You can pick and choose from a variety of ingredients to make the salad of your choice. Be sure to shop sales and also look for discounted produce that is about to go bad. Pick up a few discounted items to eat that day or the next; you will never know the difference. Here are a few ideas for things to look for in your produce department:
- Tomatoes: You can go grape size or buy the larger ones and chop. Pick whichever gets you out of the store with the lowest possible price.
- Carrots: Skip the pre-shredded variety unless they are on sale. Shred or chop your own once you get home.
- Green onions: These are usually a big bargain and can serve double duty. Use the ends to cook with and the tops in your salad.
- Mushrooms, cucumbers, peppers, celery, broccoli, avocados and more: Look at all the varieties to find the best price. Remember that as a general rule, those pre-chopped options are going to be more expensive. Do a little extra prep to save money.
- Fruits: Love strawberries on your salad? Be sure to pick those up when they are on sale. Other fruits that can go great on a salad include grapefruit, grapes, berries, apples, peaches and pears.
- Think outside of produce: Canned and frozen items can be a huge bargain. Try olives, frozen peas, jarred peppers, beets, frozen edamame, frozen corn, and more. Get creative, as this is where you can really save some money!
To make that salad more than a side dish, you are going to need a bit of protein. Shop for what is on sale or use up any leftovers. Try lunch meat, pepperoni, diced ham, chicken strips, bacon, eggs, salmon, tuna or anything else that will pair well with your vegetable and fruit choices from above. Experiment a bit here to find the best salad for you on a tight budget.
Be sure to top that salad with a little something extra. Try a variety of cheeses for the ultimate delight. Look for sales and those marked down as almost out of date to stay within budget here. You can pick up just a small amount of cheese from the deli counter that will be perfect for a single college student to add to a few salads. Drizzle the dressing of your choice over top to complete your meal. Again, look for sales or whip up a homemade vinaigrette with a few ingredients you may have in your pantry. And add some crunch with a sprinkling of nuts or croutons to really finish it off in style. Remember, nuts can be purchased in bulk and stored in the freezer for maximum life.
You, too, can enjoy a healthy salad. Remember to stretch that college-sized budget further with the tips and tricks above, then enjoy your amazing salad creation as a side or main dish tonight.