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Ask Food: 10 foods that are easy on the wallet

Q: I've been spending too much on groceries lately. Any ideas on how I can save money and still serve up good meals?

A: It's a common myth that healthy foods come with a high price tag. Here are 10 foods overflowing with nutrients that won't bust your grocery bill.1. Non-fat, plain Greek yogurtGreek yogurt has a thicker texture and tangier flavor than regular yogurt, and that's a good thing!2. Whole-grain pastaEvery cook has pasta in the cupboard for quick weeknight meals. Whole-grain versions have the same calories as refined "white" pasta, but more fiber, protein and vitamins.3. BananasYou can't beat a healthy snack that costs less than 50 cents. A medium banana has about 100 calories, 3 grams of fiber as well as potassium and vitamin B6.4. Brown riceLike whole-grain pastas, brown rice has the same calories but more nutrients than the white variety, and you can take advantage of that for only a small price difference (about $0.03 more per ounce). A little goes a long way cup dry rice cooks up to 1 cup.5. Frozen peasPeas are nutrient-rich legumes. One cup has 6 grams of fiber, 7 grams of protein and more than half a day's worth of vitamin A all for only 100 calories.6. AlmondsNuts may have a reputation for being pricey, but as you can see, they are actually very budget-friendly, especially when you consider that 1 ounce is a proper portion for a snack (that's about 22 almonds).7. EggsEggs are not only a terrific source of protein; they also contain omega-3 fats and vitamin B-12 for energy production. Whip up omelets, quiche or frittatas for easy, affordable weeknight dinners.8. Sweet potatoesDid you know that a medium baked sweet potato has almost 40 percent of your daily vitamin C needs and more than 400 percent of your daily vitamin A?9. Canned beansBeans are not only nutritious, they're also affordable, convenient and last in your pantry for up to a year.10. BroccoliOne cup of broccoli has only 30 calories and more vitamin C than an orange. Raw, steamed, stir-fried or roasted, broccoli takes on very different flavors.(For more information, visit

www.foodnetwork.com or write Ask Food Network c/o Viewer Services Culinary Department, Scripps Networks, PO Box 50970, Knoxville, TN 37950.)SHNS