Walking into a grocery store can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t spent an hour assessing your pantry, planning meals, and making lists. Well luckily, as long as you have these 13 essentials always on hand, you won’t go hungry.
1. Quinoa
Photo by Grace Bodkin
Quinoa is one of those foods that is only what you make of it. Alone, it’s pretty flavorless and boring, but it can be transformed into something delicious. Try these spinach and quinoa stuffed tomatoes for dinner, or go sweeter with this breakfast quinoa.
2. Rice
Photo by Lindsey Cosgrove
Rice is an ingredient that can be easily adapted to any recipe. Try this super easy homemade fried rice or this sweet and spicy chickpea curry over rice if you’re feeling adventurous.
3. Broth
Photo by Irene Kim
Chicken or vegetable broth is a great way to add a little extra flavor to your recipes. Cooking rice or quinoa in broth gives it more depth, and it can be used as a base for most soups, like this autumn squash soup.
4. Peanut (or any nut) butter
Photo by Lindsey Cosgrove
With so many varieties (almond, cashew, peanut) and flavors (honey, vanilla), there’s a nut butter for every mood. Eat it on an apple for a midday snack or spread it on toast for a quick and easy protein-packed breakfast.
5. Pasta
Photo by Lindsey Cosgrove
Pasta is pretty much the best meal to make when you’re hungry but short on time. Whatever ingredients you add to you pasta can totally transform it. Try this veggie pasta primavera, or for something richer, this creamy lemon butter pasta is sure to please.
6. Beans
Photo by Lindsey Cosgrove
Black, pinto, garbanzo, or kidney, beans are a great source of protein, especially if you don’t eat meat. They can be used in a side dish, like this simple fiesta bean dip, or in a main dish like this black bean and corn chili.
7. Olive oil
Photo by Lindsey Cosgrove
A great basic for cooking, olive oil is not only better for you than alternative oils, but it also adds a great subtle flavor. Plus, it can be used in more unconventional ways, like an olive oil hair mask.
8. Trail mix
Photo by Lindsey Cosgrove
Trail mix is the perfect on-the-go healthy snack. Take a handful on your way out the door to curb hunger. Plus, you can even customize it by mixing all your favorite nuts, dried fruits, and other tasty bites.
9. Salsa
Photo by Lindsey Cosgrove
Salsa will (literally) spice up any dish. Throw it on top of a burrito bowl or a loaded baked breakfast potato to up the flavor.
10. Oatmeal
Photo by Becky Hughes
Whether you like instant packets or overnight oats, oatmeal is a super filling and nutritious breakfast or snack. The best part? You can go crazy with your favorite toppings.
11. Breadcrumbs
Photo by Gabby Phi
Not something that you typically think of to have in your pantry, breadcrumbs can add an unexpected texture to your meals and are surprisingly versatile. Try out this veggie burger or up your pasta game with this easy penne pasta.
12. Tortillas
Photo courtesy of brit.co
With tortillas, the possibilities are endless. They’re basically a delicious, edible little plate. Of course, you can do a classic quesadilla, but next time try these tasty and super simple tortilla pizzas.
13. Chocolate
Photo by Sarina Jwo
Delicious in any form, eat it solo or try something different like these epic hot chocolate pancakes or these super easy chocolate truffles.