14 Grocery Staples I Always Have as a 20-Something on a Budget

You might be tempted to put the quinoa back on the shelf because it's not exactly the cheapest, but it's so worth keeping in your pantry because a little bit goes a really long way. One cup of uncooked quinoa will give you three or four meals, and that'll only put a small dent in the bag. Brown rice is a cheaper alternative that works just as well. I mix it with veggies, leftover chicken, or anything else I have for a filling lunch or dinner. Not sure how exactly to cook with quinoa? Check out this no-fail guide and these delicious recipes.