Usually for our Smart Cart recipes, we feature recipes you can make for a family of five for under $25.
Today, it's all about stocking your lunch starter kit for under $25.
Ashley Hawk, Registered Dietitian and The PLACE Co-Host, has an estimated shopping list and examples of lunch combinations.
| Item | Estimated Price |
| Whole wheat tortillas | $2.29 |
| Mini bagels | $2.49 |
| Baby carrots (1 lb) | $1.49 |
| Cucumber | $0.99 |
| Grapes (about 2 lbs, on sale) | $3.99 |
| Ranch dressing | $2.49 |
| Plain Greek yogurt (32 oz) | $3.99 |
| Peanut butter (16 oz) | $2.49 |
| 8 oz block cheddar cheese | $2.99 |
Estimated Total: $23.21
Examples of Lunch Combinations:
- Peanut butter mini bagel + grapes + baby carrots
- Cheese & cucumber tortilla pinwheels + grapes
- DIY snack box with cheddar cubes, grapes, carrots, and ranch
- Greek yogurt topped with grapes
- Peanut butter tortilla roll-up + cucumber slices
Smart Cart Tips:
- Shop by food groups instead of shopping for individual recipes.
- Save money by buying an 8 oz block of cheese and cutting it into cubes or slices yourself.
- Prep ingredients once at the beginning of the week (wash grapes, slice cucumbers, cube cheese, portion carrots) to make weekday lunch packing quick and easy.
