10 Affordable Fruits and Vegetables to Include in Your Grocery List

Rising grocery costs can often be attributed to inflation, among other factors. However, with careful planning, you can maintain your grocery budget while still enjoying your favorite foods and essential nutrients. Common money-saving strategies like using coupons, buying in bulk, and opting for store brands are helpful, but they don’t always work for fresh produce. The produce section can be one of the most expensive areas in the store, depending on your choices. According to the USDA, items like fresh berries, apricots, kiwis, and artichokes are among the priciest. Instead, consider these 10 affordable fruits and vegetables to enjoy nutritious options without overspending.

Potatoes

The beloved potato is renowned for being one of the most satisfying vegetables. Potatoes are hearty, adaptable, and can last a long time when stored correctly. If you're watching your grocery expenses, a big bag of potatoes costs less than a cup of coffee. These versatile tubers can be mashed, baked, or topped with your favorite ingredients. For example, a simple baked potato can become a delicious meal with just a can of chili and a sprinkle of cheese.

Bananas

Bananas are an affordable and convenient source of potassium, typically costing less than 25 cents each. Even after Trader Joe’s recent price hike from 19 to 23 cents per banana, they remain one of the most economical fruits available. Perfect for a quick snack, bananas can also be frozen for smoothies, added to oatmeal, or used in baking banana bread.

Apples

While apple season peaks in the fall, you can find great deals on apples year-round. They stay fresh in the fridge for weeks, making it easy to buy in bulk when prices drop. Apples are ideal for snacking, pairing with peanut butter, or incorporating into recipes like oatmeal, cereal, or stovetop dishes with cinnamon.

Carrots

While seasonal produce is often cheaper, carrots are a year-round staple packed with antioxidants, particularly those linked to eye health, such as lutein and beta carotene. Beyond the classic orange variety, carrots are available in multiple colors. Opt for rainbow carrots to roast or grab baby carrots for an easy, on-the-go snack.

Watermelon

Contrary to popular belief, large melons like watermelons are surprisingly affordable, especially during their peak summer season. A single watermelon provides numerous servings, making the cost per serving quite low despite the higher upfront price.

Cantaloupe

For a budget-friendly summer party dish, a fruit salad featuring cantaloupe is a fantastic choice. This affordable fruit costs just a few dollars and can be sliced or diced for a low-cost treat. Packed with water content, cantaloupes are perfect for staying hydrated in the heat and are a great source of antioxidants like vitamin C.

Cucumbers

Few vegetables are as budget-friendly as cucumbers, making them a must-have for cost-conscious shoppers. Although botanically part of the melon family, cucumbers are commonly used as vegetables in dishes. They’re perfect for salad recipes, snacking with baby carrots, or pairing with your favorite dip or salad dressing.

Cabbage

A head of cabbage is an economical choice, and this versatile cruciferous veggie deserves more attention in your kitchen. Green cabbage is excellent when fried or sautéed, adding bulk and texture to stir-fries, while purple cabbage can be shredded for salads or juiced for its rich nutrients, including vitamin C, iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Onions

A staple in savory dishes, onions come in various types, with prices differing by variety. Yellow onions are typically the most affordable, making them ideal for frequent cooks, especially since they caramelize beautifully when heated. While green onions are pricier, opting for yellow onions can help keep your grocery costs down. They have a long shelf life, so buying in bulk ensures you’ll have a supply that lasts for months.

Iceberg Lettuce

Though not a dark leafy green, iceberg lettuce is still a valuable addition to your diet. Its high water content and decent fiber make it a refreshing choice. If you usually prefer greens like spinach, kale, or arugula, consider trying iceberg lettuce. Its affordability and mild flavor make it a hit, even with picky eaters.