When the grocery budget is tight we can get pretty creative.

At times like these, a healthy diet is even more important. Fresh produce contributes vitamins, minerals and fiber to meals and are frontline defenders against illnesses.

This is why Wichita Falls Area Food Bank has Produce Express, a program that distributes free fresh produce to food pantry locations in Wichita Falls as well as Archer, Baylor, Clay, Foard, Haskell, Jack, Knox, Montague, Throckmorton, Wilbarger and Young counties.

For a complete schedule of times, dates and places Produce Express stops go to wfafb.org.

Produce distributed may vary but basics are often available.

All it takes to make some easy one-dish meals and side dishes are a head of cabbage, potatoes, onions and/or carrots.

STIR FRY CABBAGE, POTATOES, ONION AND SAUSAGE

1 pound potatoes, washed, peeled and cut in 1½-inch chunks

1 medium onion cut in half and sliced thin

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1/2 pound sausage cut in chunks

1 medium head cabbage, washed and cut in 1-inch slices

¼ cup olive or vegetable oil

½ medium head washed cabbage, cut in quarters and sliced thin

1/3 cup chopped onion (white, yellow or red)

1 8-ounce can pineapple tidbits packed in juice