Pantry Essentials

It’s been a couple of months since the start of the “stay home” orders. Some families aren’t leaving their house even to get groceries at this time. Some people are using curbside or delivery services to get their groceries; however, there’s still some food shortages.

So what do you do if you can’t get to the store?

You cook from your pantry! Here, I will provide you with some easy ideas to help you cook from your pantry. It’s always helpful to have a well-stocked pantry, especially in times like this.

There are lots of items that you should have in your pantry at all times, including rice, dried pasta, flour, dried beans, sugar, canned foods. Canned food items include beans, tuna, and veggies. These items are cheap and versatile. More importantly, these are non-perishable so they can be in your pantry and not be used right away. Still be mindful of the expiration dates on these items and use them before they go out of date. Check out my complete list of pantry essentials. These are items that you should have on hand at all times.

Beef & Bean Chili

There’s a lot of great recipes out there to make chili, but check this one out from a fellow dietitian’s website, Better is the New Perfect. The use of cocoa powder is a new concept that is definitely worth trying. It not only intensifies the flavor, but it also provides antioxidants! Something we all can use right now to help support our immune system. Get the printable recipe here.

Tuna Burgers

Tired of making tuna salad? How about a new twist on burgers? Try this recipe of Tuna Burgers also from Better is the New Perfect. It is suggested that we eat seafood at least twice a week. Canned tuna helps you do that! Tuna is relatively inexpensive and includes protein and omega-3 fatty acids (the good fats). Try and make sure that the canned tuna is sourced in the USA. Lots are brought in from other countries. Get the printable recipe here.

If you’re looking for a quick vegetarian lunch idea, I highly recommend you check out my friend’s recipe for this awesome Chickpea & Walnut Sandwich. This is a great way to get your protein to help keep you feeling full and satisfied! The walnuts are an added bonus because they add crunch and are loaded with heart healthy fats!

For all you pasta lovers, you can check out another great recipe from a fellow dietitian at Living Plate. You have to try the Pasta Bolognese using any dried pasta you have on hand, turkey and canned tomatoes. If you don’t have fresh veggies to add in, you can always use canned! I love the versatility of this dish! Here’s the printable recipe!

To get a complete list of essential pantry items, you can get it here. It doesn’t hurt to start stocking up when you can. But be mindful of expiration dates. Make sure you use the first in, first out method to making sure you use older items in your pantry first.

If you would like to get more recipes like these, you should check out my meal plan for the pantry! Other recipes include Chicken Pot Pie, No Bake Peanut Butter Cherry Trail Mix Bites and a Chicken Stew! Sign up to get three days of meal plans, recipes and grocery lists for free! Go on, check it out here!

I hope that this list of Pantry recipes can help you stay happy and well-fed during these unprecedented times. Keep on cooking, and remember to stay safe and keep styling your diet!

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