These freezer essentials not only taste delicious but also provide a convenient solution for quick meal preparation while remaining budget-friendly.

Berries

A bag of frozen berries is not only budget-friendly, costing half as much as fresh ones, but it also retains high levels of fiber and antioxidants. Although their texture and appearance may change when thawed, they are perfect for adding to smoothies, cereal, yogurt, or baked goods.

Frozen Garlic & Ginger

Elevate your dishes with the convenience of frozen garlic and ginger, offering a cost-effective alternative to fresh options. The time saved in preparation makes these aromatic ingredients even more appealing. Add them directly to your recipes without the need for peeling or chopping, enhancing flavors effortlessly.

Spinach

Frozen spinach is not only approximately half the cost of fresh spinach but is also available in pre-chopped form for added convenience and budget-friendly. This green leafy vegetable serves as a low-calorie source of fiber, potassium, iron, and Vitamins A and C.

Frozen Protein

Frozen protein options like beef, chicken, tofu, or fish are a cost-effective and reliable choice, often priced at a quarter of the cost compared to fresh options. Convenient and versatile, they provide essential nutrients, including omega-3s and vitamins A and D.

Frozen Peppers & Onions

Enhance your dishes with the convenience of frozen peppers and onions, which not only save you time but also more budget-friendly than buying fresh produce. These versatile additions bring flavor and nutrition to your meals without the hassle of chopping and sautéing from scratch.

Frozen Meals

Frozen entrees serve as a reliable go-to option for those times when ordering takeout or cooking from scratch seems impractical. They are not only convenient but also budget-friendly compared to buying individual ingredients or opting for weeknight meal delivery.

Krystal Dunham, MS, RDN, LD

Krystal Dunham, MS, RDN, LD, is an award-winning licensed and registered dietitian nutritionist based in Tulsa. A former NCAA Division II soccer player for Southwestern Oklahoma State University (Go Dawgs!), Krystal’s journey in nutrition has been both dynamic and impactful. She earned her Master’s in Nutrition and Food Science from The University of Central Oklahoma while completing her Dietetic Internship. A Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, Krystal brings a global perspective to her practice. She specializes in helping individuals heal their relationship with food while managing chronic health conditions, offering compassionate and evidence-based support.