Eating well doesn’t have to be expensive. With the cost of groceries and eating out going up, more people are looking for simple meals that are affordable, filling, and easy to make at home.

The good news is that vegetables, grains, and pantry staples can go a long way. With the right combinations, you can create meals that cost less than $5 and still leave you satisfied.

Here are some of the best budget-friendly vegetable meals you can make using simple ingredients.

1. Cabbage and Potato Skillet

This is one of the most affordable and filling meals you can make. Cabbage and potatoes cook quickly and absorb flavor well, making this a simple one-pan dish that works any night of the week.

2. Chickpea Vegetable Soup

A hearty soup made with chickpeas and seasonal vegetables. It’s easy to cook in one pot and great for leftovers, which helps stretch your budget even further.

3. Rice with Sautéed Vegetables

Rice is one of the cheapest staples you can buy. Add a mix of vegetables, a little oil, and seasoning, and you have a complete meal that costs very little but still feels satisfying.

4. Vegetable Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Simple pasta dishes are always budget-friendly. A basic tomato sauce with vegetables can turn into a comforting meal without adding much cost.

5. Lentil and Vegetable Stew

Lentils are inexpensive, filling, and packed with nutrients. Combined with vegetables, they create a thick and satisfying stew that can feed multiple people.

6. Roasted Mixed Vegetables

Roasting vegetables brings out natural flavors and requires very little effort. Use whatever vegetables you have, add oil and seasoning, and cook everything on one tray.

7. Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and flexible meal that works with almost any vegetable. Serve it on its own or over rice for a low-cost, filling dinner.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Vegetables

Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables create a balanced and satisfying meal that looks great and tastes even better.

9. Potato and Vegetable Hash

Potatoes are one of the most affordable ingredients available. Cook them with onions and vegetables for a simple dish that works for lunch or dinner.

10. Fresh Tomato and Herb Salad with Bread

Sometimes the simplest meals are the most satisfying. Fresh tomatoes with herbs, olive oil, and bread can create a light but enjoyable meal at a very low cost.