Start your day with these delicious, budget-friendly meals!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With plant-based ingredients like oats, fruits, and vegetables, you can create healthy and satisfying vegetarian breakfasts for less than $5 per serving. In this article, we’ll share five cheap and healthy recipes that are easy to make and perfect for starting your day right.
1. Overnight Oats with Berries (Under $1.50 per Serving)
Overnight oats are a versatile and nutrient-packed breakfast that’s easy to prepare in advance.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or water)
- 1/4 cup frozen berries
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions:
- Combine oats and almond milk in a jar or container.
- Stir in berries and sweetener.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, stir and enjoy cold or warm it up.
📌 Tip: Save even more by using seasonal fruit or buying frozen berries in bulk.
2. Spinach and Mushroom Breakfast Wrap (Under $2 Each)
A quick, protein-packed wrap that’s perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole-wheat tortilla
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Sauté spinach and mushrooms in a non-stick pan until tender.
- Add cheese and stir until melted.
- Place the mixture in the tortilla, wrap tightly, and serve.
📌 Tip: Use frozen spinach to save money and reduce prep time.
3. Banana and Peanut Butter Smoothie (Under $1.25 per Serving)
A creamy, energizing smoothie that’s both delicious and filling.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup almond milk or water
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tsp chia seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
📌 Tip: Replace chia seeds with oats for an even cheaper option while adding extra fiber.
4. Vegetarian Breakfast Burrito (Under $3 Each)
A hearty, portable breakfast that can be prepped in bulk and frozen for later.
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup black beans (cooked or canned)
- 1 whole-wheat tortilla
- 2 tbsp shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Whisk eggs and scramble them in a non-stick pan.
- Sauté bell peppers until tender, then mix with beans.
- Add scrambled eggs and bean mixture to the tortilla, sprinkle cheese, and wrap tightly.
📌 Tip: Freeze burritos individually for a grab-and-go breakfast option.
5. Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl (Under $2.50 per Serving)
A comforting and nutritious breakfast bowl that’s naturally sweet and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium sweet potato
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions:
- Bake the sweet potato at 400°F for 45 minutes or until tender.
- Cut open the sweet potato and mash slightly.
- Top with yogurt, nuts, and a drizzle of honey.
📌 Tip: Save money by buying sweet potatoes in bulk when they’re in season.
Quick Reference Table: 5 Cheap & Healthy Vegetarian Breakfast Recipes
Recipe | Cost Per Serving | Money-Saving Tip |
---|---|---|
Overnight Oats with Berries | <$1.50 | Use frozen berries for extra savings. |
Spinach and Mushroom Wrap | <$2 | Opt for frozen spinach to save money. |
Banana & Peanut Butter Smoothie | <$1.25 | Replace chia seeds with oats for lower cost. |
Vegetarian Breakfast Burrito | <$3 | Freeze extras for busy mornings. |
Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl | <$2.50 | Buy sweet potatoes in bulk or on sale. |
Conclusion
Eating a vegetarian breakfast doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. These five recipes prove that you can enjoy healthy, delicious, and satisfying meals to start your day—all for under $5 per serving. Whether you’re on the go or have time to cook, these ideas will help you save money and eat better.