Having a well-stocked pantry is essential for saving money on food expenses and ensuring you have the necessary ingredients to create balanced meals. By having these 11 staples in your pantry, you can easily whip up a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
1. Rice: Rice is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to casseroles. It’s also a great source of carbohydrates and fiber. Try making a simple fried rice by sautéing cooked rice with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce.
2. Pasta: Pasta is another pantry staple that is inexpensive and can be used in a wide range of dishes. Try making a classic spaghetti aglio e olio; a traditional Italian dish, by sautéing garlic in olive oil and tossing it with cooked spaghetti, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
3. Canned beans: Canned beans are a great source of protein and fiber and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads. Try making a quick and easy bean salad by mixing canned beans with diced tomatoes, onions, and a vinaigrette dressing. This is the fast food version, which is great to have on hand to deter unhealthy drive-thru addictions. For an even more budget friendly idea, use your crock pot or regular boil pot and cook up your own favorite beans. You can even buy bulk which really helps in the long run. Freeze the leftovers and enjoy quick and easy burritos, tacos, bean soup, or your own concoction!
4. Canned tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta sauces to soups. Try making a simple marinara sauce by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, onions, and herbs. Try your hand at growing your own tomatoes (the best beginners plant in my book), you don’t need much space at all and they grow great in containers.
5. Oats: Oats are a great source of fiber and can be used in a variety of dishes, from oatmeal to homemade granola. Both great afternoon snacks/meal. Try making overnight oats by soaking oats in milk or yogurt overnight and topping them with fruit and nuts in the morning.
6. Olive oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat that can be used for cooking, salad dressings, and marinades. Try making a simple vinaigrette by whisking olive oil with vinegar, mustard, and herbs. DIY infused herb olive oil in an attractive pouring glass jar makes a wonderful gift. We did this for a family member and she loved it. Besides olive oil, coconut oil is also a staple of mine.
7. Spices: Having a variety of spices on hand can help add flavor to your dishes without adding extra calories. Try making a simple spice rub by mixing together paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder and rubbing it onto chicken or tofu before grilling. These can also be added for flavor to your favorite veggie patty. Growing your own spices is very rewarding and nothing beats the satisfaction of harvesting your own produce.
8. Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats and protein and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to smoothies. Try making homemade trail mix by mixing together nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate chips. High on our lists are pumpkin, sunflower, and chia seeds, walnuts, and almonds.
9. Canned tuna: Canned tuna is a great source of protein and can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to pasta salads. Try making a tuna salad sandwich by mixing canned tuna with mayonnaise, celery, and onions and serving it on whole wheat bread. Nothing can beat self-canned albacore though and you may be able to find a fisherman to split the costs with you. My uncle gave me the best canned albacore that opened my eyes to the difference between the minced version and the true natural meaty albacore that is available to DIY enthusiasts.
10. Chicken broth: Chicken broth is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to risottos. Try making a simple chicken noodle soup by simmering chicken broth with cooked chicken, vegetables, and noodles. Chicken broth is a great staple for when you have pets that you are providing a more natural homemade culinary experience verses store bought kibbles. It also travels well and along with easy to cook rice and veggies, you have a simple meal in a matter of minutes.
11. Dried fruit. Dried cranberries, apricots, apples are a staple in our household and easy to store. You can add them to so many dishes including pancakes, smoothies, salads, trail mix, and whatever else you can come up with. Having a food dehydrator on hand is a plus and you can even go to u-pick farms and save money by picking fruit yourself and drying it. Plus, it is a peaceful energy burner!
By having these 11 staples in your pantry, you can save money on food expenses and create a balanced diet. With a little creativity, you can easily whip up a variety of delicious and nutritious meals using these ingredients. So stock up your pantry and start cooking up some budget-friendly and healthy dishes today!
The Adventure Machine
References/Further Study:
https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-shop-for-groceries-in-bulk-the-smart-way-article
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