Looking for ways to make your meals less expensive? Good news: Eating for optimum health and energy doesn’t have to break the bank. Try these tips for delicious, high-nutrition meals on the cheap:

• Map your menu. Sit down with the grocery ads and plan your meals once a week based on what’s in your kitchen and what’s on sale.

• Shop with a list. Use your menu to create a grocery list and stick with it; avoid impulse purchases.

• Keep it simple. You’ll pay more for packaged, processed fare than whole foods. Prepare balanced meals with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. You’ll also avoid all the health risks of the additives and preservatives in packaged food.

• Eat beans. As versatile, low-fat, high-fiber protein sources, beans can’t be beat. Dried beans are inexpensive and easier to prepare than you think — just soak overnight and cook in water until soft (cooking times will vary depending on the type of bean). Add them to pasta dishes, puree them for a vegetable dip, or try a bean burrito with avocado and salsa.

• Go veggie. Once a week or more, prepare a meatless meal. Eating less meat reduces fat and cholesterol — as long as you don’t load up on cheese instead. It’s also better for the environment and easier on your pocketbook.

• Think seasonally. You’ll pay less and benefit the environment when you purchase fruits and vegetables that are in season and don’t need to be shipped long distances.

• Pack your lunch and snacks. This can save you hundreds each month — and thousands each year.

• Cook for an army. Cook more than you need for one meal, then pack leftovers into meal-sized containers and freeze them.

Follow these tips for healthy meals that are easy on your wallet.