7 Tips to Help Plan Your Pantry

If you’re like many Americans, you kicked off the new year by vowing to eat better and lead an all-around healthier life. A valiant goal, but one that can seem daunting once normal schedules resume after the holidays.

For those of you who are feeling overwhelmed, don’t despair! Taking things one day at a time can help cut down on the stress of a new year, and our favorite place to start is at the grocery store. By learning how to build up your pantry with healthy, budget-friendly staples, you’re setting yourself up for success. After all, when you have the right supplies on hand, you’re much more likely to use them.

Here are seven of our favorite tips that help us to stay calm, cool and collected as we maneuver the grocery store aisles.

1. Load Up On Legumes. Whether you’re a fan of black beans or partial to chickpeas, having a range of legumes in your pantry can help you pull together a delicious meal or snack when tight on time. From DIY burrito bowls, to homemade hummus (easier than it sounds!), to big batches of chili, beans are a protein-packed base that can “beef up” any meal and leave everyone feeling satisfied.

Pro Tip: If opting for canned beans, make sure to buy the low sodium option when available.

2. Gather Your Grains. Every year, it seems as if a new grain comes into the spotlight – and for good reason! In 2016, farro took center stage, and the year before that, quinoa was the grocery store darling. Despite the trends, it’s really all about finding a grain that works for you and your budget. All are quick to prepare, and with a bag in your cupboard, you’ll never be left in a bind.

3. Nab Some Nut Butters. The perfect topping for a piece of whole grain toast in the morning or mixed into your oatmeal for a little extra oomph to kick off your day, nut butters (such as almond, peanut, cashew and sunflower) are a must when it comes to stocking your pantry. Make sure to look for products with no added sugars, no hydrogenated oils and an ingredients list of three items or less!

4. Stock Simple Spices. Your spice rack will be your savior when avoiding the all-too-common stereotype of healthy meals as “bland meals.” In addition to salt and pepper, our recommendation for top five spices to get you started are: cumin, chili powder, oregano, thyme and ginger. These spices will have you ready to whip up a wide range of meals with varying flavor profiles.

5. Say Yes to Yogurt. Full of probiotics, yogurt makes the perfect snack or breakfast, and can also make a pretty great marinade when mixed with spices or herbs. Control your sugar intake by choosing a plain option and then mixing with a little bit of honey for a deliciously sweet start to your day.

6. Fill Up Your Freezer with Fruit. Cheaper than fresh options, frozen fruit can leave you prepared to whip up top-notch smoothies without losing out on any of the nutritional benefits.

7. Vary Your Veggies. The price of vegetables shift throughout the year depending on what’s in season. By adjusting what you eat with the season, you will not only expand your culinary repertoire but also cut down on your grocery bill. Truly a win-win!

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