Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant meals that are not only delicious but also easy on the wallet. For busy families, finding the right balance between quick preparation and healthy eating can be a challenge. That's why we've put together a one-day budget-friendly summer meal plan designed for a family of four.

From a refreshing breakfast to a hearty dinner, these recipes are simple, nutritious, and perfect for those warm summer days. Get ready to savor the flavors of summer without breaking the bank or heating up the kitchen!

Breakfast: Yogurt Parfaits

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of plain or vanilla yogurt

• 2 cups granola

• 2 cups mixed fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, and bananas)

• Honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

• In four bowls or cups, layer ½ cup of yogurt.

• Add ¼ cup of granola on top of the yogurt.

• Add ½ cup of mixed fruit.

• Repeat the layers if desired.

Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top if using and serve.

Lunch: Turkey and Cheese Wraps

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas

• 8 slices of turkey deli meat

• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

• 1 cup shredded lettuce

• 1 tomato, sliced

• ¼ cup mayonnaise or mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface.

• Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or mustard on each tortilla.

• Place 2 slices of turkey and 1 slice of cheese on each tortilla.

• Add a handful of shredded lettuce and a few slices of tomato.

• Season with salt and pepper.

• Roll up the tortillas tightly.

Cut wraps in half and serve.

Snack: Veggie Sticks with Hummus

Ingredients:

• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks

• 2 cucumbers, sliced into sticks

• 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips

• 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

• Arrange the carrot sticks, cucumber sticks, and bell pepper strips on a plate.

Serve with a bowl of hummus for dipping.

Dinner: Crockpot Chicken and Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.

• Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and onion on top of the chicken.

• Sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the vegetables.

• Pour the chicken broth over the top.

• Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.

Arrange chicken and vegetables on plates and serve.

SHopping List:

Dairy:

• 4 cups plain or vanilla yogurt

• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

Produce:

• 2 cups mixed fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, and bananas)

• 1 cup shredded lettuce

• 1 tomato

• 4 carrots

• 2 cucumbers

• 1 bell pepper

• 4 large potatoes

• 1 onion

• 2 cloves garlic

• 4 large carrots (additional for snack)

Meat:

• 8 slices of turkey deli meat

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Grains:

• 4 large flour tortillas

• 2 cups granola

Other:

• Honey or maple syrup (optional)

• ¼ cup mayonnaise or mustard

• Salt and pepper

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 cup hummus

• 1 cup chicken broth

With this one-day meal plan, feeding your family delicious and nutritious meals has never been easier or more affordable. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for the summer, providing a mix of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors.

Whether you're enjoying a relaxing breakfast parfait, a satisfying turkey wrap for lunch, a refreshing veggie snack, or a hearty crockpot chicken dinner, these meals are sure to please everyone at the table.

Embrace the simplicity and joy of summer cooking while keeping your budget in check. Happy eating!

If you have a suggestion for next month’s meal plan, let us know.