Ok, that's a good start.
Get a decent knife when you get a chance. You're going to hate making dinner if your using a cheap knife. That's what I did when I first moved out. Spent a bunch of money on upgrading my computer and saved up more than I really needed to. Just spend the $100 on a decent knife like this:
GLOBAL Yoshikin 8" Chef Knife (G-2) & 5" Utility Knife (GS-3) STAINLESS STEEL | eBay
Getting a crown of broccoli is one of my favorite fall backs. It's quick and easy to wash and break down. And then there are billion different ways of eating it. Balsamic, steak salt, butter sauce, oyster sauce, salt + sesame oil... the list goes on and on.
Also, by getting a full crown for dinner will make sure you're getting enough veg in your system. That and it's loaded with anti-oxidants.
Building on what nns said, there are some places that are really cheap for good produce and meats. Not sure how it is like out in Surrey, but the smaller asian produce markets in Vancouver/Burnaby like Chong Lee, Triple A, Red Apple and Supermarket 88 have some pretty fresh meats and veg. The meat has a much higher turnover than at a place like Safeway, it's much fresher. Much cheaper too. It's pretty much a win-win buying from those places. Not only will buying your food there save you money, you'll also find crazy deals like an awesome steak for $4.50. Just think about it, veg for $1. Add in your rice or potatoes. And you've got a steak dinner for $6. Cheaper than a big mac meal.
Just remember that there are things you can make in batches and store for when you get lazy. Quinoa can be made then fridged all week long so you don't have to boil rice or pasta every meal. I already mentioned stews, but sometimes, you can even do just part of your dish. Like slow cooking pork belly (a super cheap cut) and fridging it. Then you can get creative all week long. Slice it and sear it off with salt and pepper. Microwave it back up and toss it with your favorite hot sauces and top with something herby like cilantro.
Really, with a decent knife and if you're comfortable with stove top cooking, the world is your oyster.