My husband and I laughed last night as we were trying to slim down our budget, “No wonder Congress can’t pass a budget, everything is important!” This is definitely how we felt when we were deciding where we should cut back. Gymnastics? Obviously not something essential, but my little one loves it so much! Haircuts? Do we really want to turn into the laughing stock of the community trusting my nonexistent barber skills? If you don’t believe how bad I am, ask my brother. He wore a hat constantly until he could make it to the barber shop. This is how the discussion continued until we finally found a few places we could agree on.

Just in case we aren’t the only family trying to cut back a little on spending, I thought I’d share some tips that keep our family eating healthy on a budget.

Plan Ahead. Make a menu for the week and make a grocery list according to your menu. Only get what is on your list. On those weeks when I don’t get a chance to plan ahead, I usually spend $30-$50 more at the grocery store.

Buy Fruits and Vegetables in Season. I was so mad at myself for buying cherries at the grocery store this week at almost $10/ lb. I mistakenly thought they were on sale. At least they tasted really good. Buying fruits and vegetables in season can make a really big difference at the cash register.

Buy in Bulk. We typically buy frozen chicken breasts, frozen veggies, oatmeal, some fruits, and cereal in bulk.

Skip the Convenience Items. These are more expensive. Cut up those carrots and pineapple yourself. It might cost you a little more time, but it saves you money.

Spice up the Leftovers. I love leftovers, but I know some people really don’t like to eat them. If you give your leftovers a makeover it will feel like a new meal. Get creative. Turn leftover chicken into a stir-fry or salad.

Meatless Mondays. I have found when we have meatless meals, our grocery bill is smaller. Beans cost less than meat.

Coupons. I am an awful couponer. This one just doesn’t work well for me, but I had to list it because I know some people do really, really well with it. If you haven’t tried it before, give it a go.

I hope some of these tips will help your family enjoy eating healthy without spending your whole pay check on groceries. Eating healthy is obviously a high priority at our house, so we live by these tips to allow us to eat healthy and stay under our budget.

Do you have any tips that help your family eat healthy while staying under budget?