Back 2 Basics: How To Shop The Boise Co-op Affordably

 

Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. Shopping for your family at a natural grocery store like the Boise Co-op Market might seem like a challenge on a budget, but it’s entirely possible! With a bit of planning and a strategic shopping list, you can provide nutritious and delicious meals that last all week. In this post, we’ll show you how to feed a family for a week on a budget, broken down into three categories: breakfast, snacks/lunch, and dinner.

Shopping Tip! Using your monthly Co-op Member perk of 10% off your purchase can save you a lot during this big shopping trip!


BREAKFAST: Simple, Healthy, and Budget-Friendly

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but it doesn’t have to be expensive! Keep things simple by sticking to wholesome staples that are filling and affordable.

 
 

What To Buy:

  • Bread

  • Organic Bananas

  • Cloverleaf Milk

  • Field Day Peanut Butter

  • Field Day Jam

  • Field Day Maple Syrup Maple

  • Field Day Oatmeal

  • Flying M Coffee

  • Eggs

  • Annie’s Cereal

  • American Table Hot Rolled Cakes

Breakfast Plan:

Banana Peanut Butter Toast: Sliced bananas on whole grain bread with a layer of peanut butter.

Oatmeal Bowls: Oats cooked with Cloverleaf milk, topped with bananas.

Cereal: A quick go-to breakfast for busy mornings.


SNACKS/LUNCH: Fun and Affordable

Snacks are essential for keeping everyone happy between meals, especially kids. Choose a mix of healthy and fun options to satisfy different cravings.

 
 

What To Buy:

  • Field Day Popcorn

  • Organic Valley Stringles Org

  • Field Day Sparkling Water 6 Pk

  • Field Day Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips

  • Field Day Fire Roasted Salsa

  • Hippeas Puffs Bohemian BBQ

  • Hippeas Puffs White Cheddar

  • Annie’s Honey Graham Crackers

  • Clif Z Bar Iced Oatmeal Cookie & Chocolate Chip

  • Field Day Animal Cookies

  • Nature’s Path Toaster Pastries

  • Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies

Snack/Lunch Plan:

Popcorn: Popped at home and lightly seasoned with sea salt for a healthy, budget-friendly snack.

Granola Bars: Great for on-the-go energy boosts.

Peanut Butter & Jelly: A classic!

Chips: A fun snack for the weekend or family movie night.


DINNER: Easy, Delicious, and Kid-Friendly

Dinner can be the most expensive meal of the day, but with a bit of creativity, you can stretch your dollar while keeping everyone satisfied. Focus on easy-to-prepare meals that kids love and that use affordable ingredients.

 
 

What To Buy:

  • Green Beans

  • Chinese Stirfry

  • Chicken Nuggets

  • Ground Beef

  • Amy’s Chili

  • Field Day Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce

  • Field Day Roasted Veggies Pizza

  • Field Day Tom Spinach Feta Pizza

  • Field Day Fries Crinkle Cut

  • Annie’s Macaroni & Cheese

  • Field Day Brown Rice

  • Field Day Pasta

Dinner Plan:

Pizza Night: A quick and easy meal that’s always a hit with kids. Serve with a side of veggies.

Pasta Night: Spaghetti with pasta sauce and ground beef.

Mac & Cheese: Serve with steamed frozen vegetables and chicken nuggets for added protein.

Protein Bowl: Use frozen vegetables, chicken, and rice, seasoned with olive oil and spices for a quick and healthy meal.

 
ArticleTyler Schnur