In today’s economy, it feels almost impossible to feed a family healthy, satisfying meals on a budget. Prices are climbing, and it can be discouraging to see your grocery bill eat away at your budget. But with a little creativity, planning, and a trip to Aldi, I was able to put together five cheap healthy Aldi meals for my family of five—all for just $60!
Why Aldi Is My Go-To Store for Cheap Healthy Meals
Aldi has been my go-to grocery store for years because it offers quality ingredients at prices that are consistently lower than most major grocery stores. Their weekly specials, fresh produce, and affordable pantry staples allow me to create balanced meals without breaking the bank. Aldi simplifies healthy eating by providing great value on fresh vegetables, proteins, and dairy products, all while keeping costs manageable.
Cheap Healthy Aldi Meals Start with Veggies
As a mom to three boys (ages 9, 7, and 3), I know how important it is to include vegetables in every meal. Aldi’s affordable produce section makes it easy to stock up on nutrient-dense options like cucumbers, asparagus, and tomatoes. I plan our meals around what’s available and in season, ensuring our plates are colorful and loaded with essential vitamins.
This week, I created a meal plan that stretches just $60 into five dinners packed with vegetables, protein, and flavor.
My $60 Aldi Grocery Haul
Here’s the exact shopping list I used to create five wholesome family dinners.
Aldi Grocery List:
- 1 lb salmon: $8.79
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: $5.78
- Chicken drumsticks: $3.78
- 8 flour tortillas: $2.15
- Cream cheese (8 oz block): $1.95
- 3 lbs white rice: $2.45
- Frozen ground turkey (1 lb): $2.75
- Frozen peas: $1.09
- Cilantro: $0.75
- English cucumber: $2.10
- 3-count garlic: $1.89
- 1 lb bag key limes: $2.75
- 1 lb bunch asparagus: $3.29
- 0.73 lbs Roma tomatoes: $0.69
- Salsa (24 oz): $2.75
- 8 oz block of cheese: $2.09
- 32 oz plain Greek yogurt: $3.85
- 8 oz feta cheese block: $3.85
Total: $58.96
This budget left me just enough wiggle room for pantry staples like spices, olive oil, and soy sauce that I already had on hand.
5 Healthy, Budget-Friendly Meals
Here’s how I turned that $60 haul into five family-friendly dinners:
1. Teriyaki Salmon with Pickled Cucumbers and Asparagus with Feta Sauce
- Salmon: Marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and lime juice, then air fried to flaky perfection.
- Pickled cucumbers: Quick-pickle sliced cucumbers in vinegar, salt, and a pinch of sugar.
- Asparagus with feta sauce: Roasted asparagus on top of a quick blend of feta cheese and Greek yogurt.
2. Tandoori Drumsticks with Cilantro Lime Rice
- Drumsticks: Marinated in Greek yogurt, garlic, and spices like paprika and cumin, then baked until golden and juicy.
- Cilantro lime rice: Fluffy white rice mixed with lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro.
3. Michelle’s Curry Chicken with Added Peas
- Chicken thighs: Simmered in a creamy curry sauce made with Greek yogurt, garlic, and spices.
- Peas: Stirred in for extra veggies and sweetness.
Serve this over rice for a hearty, flavorful meal.
4. Chicken Gyro Bowls
- Chicken thighs: Grilled or baked and seasoned with oregano, garlic, and cumin.
- Bowls: Layer rice, diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and chicken, then drizzle with homemade tzatziki made with Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber, and garlic.
5. Basic Tacos
- Ground turkey: Seasoned with taco spices and cooked in a skillet.
- Toppings: Shredded cheddar, diced tomatoes, salsa, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Serve in tortillas for a quick, kid-approved meal.
Why This Meal Plan Works
This meal plan is proof that you don’t need to sacrifice nutrition or flavor to stay within your budget. By shopping smart at Aldi and using simple ingredients in creative ways, I was able to:
- Feed my family of five for five nights for under $60.
- Incorporate fresh vegetables into every meal.
- Create meals that are healthy, flavorful, and kid-approved.
Try It Yourself
If you’re struggling to keep your grocery budget in check while feeding your family healthy meals, give this plan a try. Aldi makes it easy to shop smart, and with a little ingenuity, you can create delicious, affordable meals your whole family will love.
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