We've all heard the old excuse that healthy eating is expensive. Well, it turn out it doesn't have to be. With some careful planning, and simple swaps, you can save money on your weekly shop while enjoying healthy food.  Check out these simple tricks to save you cash - and calories! 1. Skip the pre-packaged salads It's always tempting to throw a bag of ready-made salad into our shopping baskets, but reaching for a head of fresh lettuce is always a better option. Not only are pre-made salad mixes expensive, they often lose their freshness overnight. And nobody wants to eat wilted leaves. A full head of lettuce will last longer in the fridge, cost less and and encourage you to experiment with your own mixes. 2. Cook a whole chicken If you've never cooked a whole chicken, it's time to start now. Instead of picking up chicken breasts this week, buy a whole chicken (or cheaper cuts like drumsticks and chicken thighs) and roast it with your favourite veggies. This will leave you with enough food for several great meals. Use any leftovers leftovers in soups, salads, sandwiches or stir frys. 3. Keep your freezer packed with frozen veggies and berries When you're counting the pennies, every purchase adds up. A great way to save money is to stock up on frozen vegetables. And if you're worried about missing out on nutrients, don't fear. Frozen vegetables and berries are nutritious because they're picked at the peak of ripeness and then frozen to seal in their nutrients. They make a great health addition (and add a pop of colour) to every meal. 4. Stock up on beans Great for digestion, good for the heart, and a super source of fibre, a nice selection of beans should feature in every healthy diet. The great news is that they're also cheap to buy. Bulk up hearty stews and soups with kidney, cannellini and loads more of your favourite beans. Delicious. 5. Plan meals and shopping trips in advance Sitting down on Sunday evening and mapping out your meals for the week is the most effective way to save money on healthy eats. Look at your schedule, figure out exactly what's in your diary for the week and plan your food around that. Make sure to visit your local supermarket when you can expect an offer on meat or fish, and stock up on essentials like oils and herbs when they're on sale. Planning is key. This article is brought to you by Electric Ireland Smarter Living. Click here to find out more about simple things that make life better.