(AZ) Eating healthier this year? A few ways to do so without spending too much

*Arizona (Central) Farmer's Markets-Get your fruits and vegetables all over Arizona from local farmers. "An Association of Valley Markets supporting direct, sustainable commerce between local area farmers and producers and their surrounding community."

*Tucson Farmer's Markets- Fresh-food lovers can find everything from apples to zucchini at farmers' markets in Tucson and Southern Arizona.

*Bountiful Baskets-This is a grass roots, all volunteer, no contracts, no catch co-operative to get fruits and vegetables every week or every other week for about $15.

(The group purchases items at deep discounts and items are then distributed evenly among participants. It is completely volunteer-run! If you are interested in buying a basket, you register for an account, put your order in for your closest site before Tuesday night-there are sites all over the state! ($15+$3 for 1st order or $1.50 processing for any other order). Each site has a 20 minute pickup window on Saturdays and runs at least every two weeks at each site. If you are late or forget, they donate it to a local fire department (no refunds). They offer different seasonal items and you can often add loaves of bread or other fun things at an additional cost-at Christmas time they had gingerbread house kits. I recommend playing around on the site to find your closest locations and see if it is something you might be interested in. Check out my friend Jenna's Bountiful basket load here.)


*Fresh and Easy-These stores have an easy and affordable way to buy groceries. They send coupons out if you are on their mailing list. Find your closest Fresh & Easy Store here.


*Wal-mart-If you don't have time to shop around at different stores, Wal-mart price matches ads. If you see items on sale at different stores, bring your ads in to Wal-mart and they will price match.

*Superstition Market-  They offer a great selection of produce at great prices! I would recommend that you eat or freeze them quick! This store is located inthe East Valley in Mesa, Main and Greenfield (4755 E Main St.)

Backyard Farmer- Most produce is picked either a day before or only a few days or so before delivery. This is the freshest you can get next to your own backyard garden. He's a local guy who delivers fresh, organically grown produce - including herbs, fruits, veggies, and interesting things you can't find elsewhere (dandelion greens, beet greens, etc).  He delivers it - the produce is a bit more, but it's delivered for free. (Thanks Tara!) Check out how to order here.


Any other ideas on healthy AND frugal eating?