This is an inexpensive way to provide you and your whole family with highly nutritious, tasty meals for days. Black beans are an excellent source of protein, as well as many other key nutrients, and whether you buy them canned or dry (which will require soaking the beans overnight), they are surprisingly cheap.

Oatmeal is a traditional breakfast food but it doesn’t have a great reputation when it comes to flavor. Baked oatmeal has more flavor and can be made with staples you’ve got at home. You can also make these ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to use, then just reheat and serve for a super quick breakfast. Easier to make than oatmeal cookies and better for you!

A favorite appetizer this time of year is deviled eggs. Eggs in general are a symbol of rebirth. But Christians relate Easter eggs to Jesus’ emergence from the tomb and resurrection. And Easter is certainly a time for eggs!

Fried rice is a dish that originated in ancient China, probably as a way to use leftovers. Today fried rice is a staple on every menu featuring Asian cuisine. This recipe features traditional fried rice ingredients all cooked in a single pan. You can also make this with other vegetables like broccoli, fresh green beans or bell peppers. The best rice to use is jasmine or long grain rice but any rice will work – just make sure it’s been cooled so it won’t get mushy in the cooking process. You can also add meat to your dish liked chopped chicken, ham, or even bacon.

Tortilla soup originates from Mexico. It is usually made with chicken broth, black beans, tomatoes and a variety of herbs and spices. Don’t be fooled by the “soup” title, it’s a hearty dish that can be topped with avocado, cheese cubes and sour cream making this a tasty one pot meal for the whole family. Here we’ve included a version made with canned staples you may have on hand and version including fresh ingredients.

Spring is here and summer is on the way. Having a light, easy meal to feed your family will soon be top of mind. Lettuce wraps are a healthy way to change things up. You can exchange lettuce for tortillas to create taco wraps. Instead of a bun or bread, try lettuce as your container for hamburgers, sloppy joes and more. This recipe is a unique spin on Waldorf Salad that will make a fast, affordable meal, and the addition of peanut butter will give it an exotic, Thai-inspired taste. It’s sure to become a family favorite.