Of course, one of the biggest reasons we needlessly spend money on unhealthy foods is because we need "fast" food. The best way to avoid this is to have a few super-fast, and cheap-but-healthy meals on hand that you can resort to when you're short on time.

These five ideas can each be prepared in less than the time it takes to get in your car and drive to the nearest fast-food joint - and they taste better too!

• Swish Fish
  One of the fastest meals around, fish only takes a few minutes to cook and it's packed with heart-helping omega 3's. You can jazz it up by sprinkling with herbs or spices before broiling or barbecuing. While the fish is cooking, prepare a crunchy salad to go with it.
  
  
• Vegorama Pasta
  Put a pot of pasta on to boil. When the pasta has about 3 or 4 minutes remaining to cook, throw some broccoli florets, sliced red bell pepper and frozen peas into the same pasta pot. When everything is cooked, drain the whole pot and divide into serving bowls. Top each serving with canned tuna and a sprinkling of low-fat grated cheese.
  
  
• Speedy Pizza
  Spread a piece of flat bread (turkish bread) or an English muffin with a little tomato paste, and top with your favorite low-calorie toppings. Suggestions include diced bell pepper, tomato, mushrooms, lean ham, sliced olives, fresh basil or oregano. Finish with a sprinkling of grated low-fat cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and browned. Serve with a leafy, green side salad.
  
  
• Fruity Chicken Salad
  Put together a salad from your favorite vegetables. Top with shredded chicken (skin removed) and pieces of your favorite in-season fruit, such as orange segments, mango slices, crisp apple pieces, or grapes. Sprinkle with a few chopped nuts and drizzle with a little fat-free dressing.
  
  
• Delicioso Pasta
  Cook pasta. Meanwhile saute a chopped onion and crushed garlic. Add canned tomatoes, drained canned red kidney beans, a few sliced black olives and a little chopped chilli or bell pepper. When the sauce has reduced and thickened a little, stir through some shredded fresh basil. Top pasta with sauce, and sprinkle with a little parmesan cheese.

For other economical, fast and healthy recipes, check out  CalorieKing.com's Recipe section. You'll find something to suit every taste, budget and schedule.

Isn't it time you started investing in your health, your budget and your savings?