Must-Have Pantry Staples for Emergencies & Every Day Snacks and Meals

Want to have a well-stocked pantry that will do wonders for you? 

A well-stocked pantry is important not just in times of illness, social distancing, or emergency, but really all the time. A well-stocked pantry will allow you to eat healthier, while saving you time and money.  It’ll also provide you with all you’ll need for a quick healthy snack or meal on hand, help you feel prepared and empowered to have healthy food ready to go, can save you a trip to the grocery store and, to be real, can save your life!

For me, it is important to stock my pantry in a thoughtful way, that not only serves my family, but also considers those who are food insecure and does not leave them without. Having enough food for 2-3 weeks for your family should be sufficient. This resource should help you with what to stock in your pantry.

You can use these items on a weekly, if not daily, basis.  No matter how much you’re lacking in time or creativity, your pantry can be your best friend, and that is worth it!

Let’s get to the nutritious, shelf stable essentials. 

Here are some of my staples to keep on hand for healthy meals and snacks:

Nut butters, like almond and cashew butter

Chicken and vegetable broth, including bone broth (I love this kind)

Canned/boxed vegetables 

·      Tomatoes

·      Green beans

·      Carrots

·      Artichokes

·      Chilis and jalepenos

Canned/boxed beans and chickpeas (look for BPA-free)

Dry beans

Flours, like coconut and almond flour

Canned/pouch tuna, salmon, and chicken

High quality meat sticks/jerky (my favorite by far is Chomps)

Dried fruit (look for no added sugar)

Whole grains like quinoa, steel cut oats, brown rice, and farro

Jar of good pasta sauce (I love Rao’s)

Salsa

Spices and Herbs

·      Garlic powder

·      Sea salt

·      Black pepper

·      Tajin

·      Onion powder

·      Trader Joe’s Elote seasoning

·      Cayenne 

·      Cinnamon

·  Vanilla extract

Oils, like avocado, coconut, and olive and ghee, and oil spray

Olive Oil is best for salad dressings and drizzling, whereas Avocado oil is best for sautéing in high heat.

Vinegars, like apple cider (this is my favorite kind ever!), balsamic and red wine

Nuts like almonds, macadamia, pistachio and walnuts

Seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, chia and flax

Now you’re all set, prepared for convenient, healthy meals from your home!

Check out the next post for simple, healthy meals and snacks to create from these pantry staples!

>>>Tell me some of your favorite, must-have party staples below!