Grocery shopping can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. However, with some smart shopping tips and a well-stocked pantry, you can easily prepare cheap and easy meals that are both delicious and nutritious. In this recipe, we’ll share some grocery shopping tips and a simple recipe that makes use of pantry staples to create a tasty meal that won’t break the bank.
Ingredients for Cheap and Easy Pasta Dish:
- 1 lb pasta (any shape you prefer)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cheap and Easy Pasta Dish:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet, along with the chickpeas, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Pasta: Pasta is a versatile and inexpensive staple that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s a great source of carbohydrates and can be paired with a variety of sauces and ingredients.
- Canned Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are a pantry staple that can be used to create flavorful sauces and soups. They’re also a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants.
- Chickpeas: Chickpeas are a nutritious legume that are high in protein and fiber. They add a hearty texture to the pasta dish and help to make it more filling.
- Onion and Garlic: Onion and garlic add flavor to the dish and are commonly used in many cuisines around the world. They’re also packed with antioxidants and other nutrients.
- Dried Herbs: Dried basil and oregano are used to season the pasta dish. They add a depth of flavor and aroma that complements the other ingredients.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is used as a topping for the pasta dish. It adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
This cheap and easy pasta dish is a great example of how you can use pantry staples to create a delicious and satisfying meal. With some smart shopping and a little creativity, you can enjoy tasty meals without breaking the bank.
