ooops...

"tin foil" - actually 'baking paper' is much better, and you can't get scraps of foil in the fillings ... (electrical ouch!) also less environmentally wasteful!

Make rice with 'soup stock' - available in 500ml/1 liter packs, or just add a 'stock cube' - can also add diced frozen veges, spice powders/herbs, etc.

Couscous is brilliant, just add the same volume of boiling water, stir and stand for a moment. Add stock to the water alternative, frozen veges, dried fruit, nuts, cheese, spices/herbs etc.

Fresh fruit and veges is good, but for the single, modern frozen veges are almost the same in vitamin etc content, especially if the 'fresh stuff' is more than a few days old.

I've previously in other threads given a lot of tips about using various simple 'bench-top appliances' (toasted sandwich makers, etc) in unconventional ways, they even save washing up of pans, etc.

Regular eating out is good for company, (just watch cost!) and can be fun and mentally stimulating, and here in Australia, 'counter lunches' (steaks, chicken, etc) can be had at pubs (hotels) for around $10 - good value and nutrition - they make money from the booze and poker machines. Once a fortnight, or week, as the budget allows - if you can find a compatible group of friends to meet up and try different places, all the better. One can always start such a local 'lunch club' group if motivated, even ring radio stations, etc to get one started. No fees, just turn up on a regular date at a notified place - the organisation can also keep one's mind busy.

Don't forget fish as an occasional meal idea, fish and chip shops can be much more expensive than doing it at home - a small piece of fish grilled in a 'sandwich plate thingy' (see my other ramblings!) is very cheap and nutritious and quick.

A small collection of bottled spices and herbs can add cheap lift to cooking. Also give you something new to learn about - the more the brain, the better for mental health!

In Australia. we now have compulsory comparative 'cost per unit' notification labellings on shelves - $X/vol or weight.