Staples in Your Pantry That Make Your Weekday Family Dinners Fun and Easy

A well-stocked pantry is essential for any type of emergency that might occur, even if that emergency is just a busy weeknight. If you have the space in your pantry, here are five staple foods that can make throwing together a family dinner easy.

Rolls

Bread is a basic food group that can be used to supplement any meal. Kaiser rolls are a filling sandwich bun that works with cold or hot fillers like cheese, deli meats, or peanut butter and jelly. Plump with a firm top that won’t easily crumble or get soggy, these rolls are a reliable bread source for any occasion and all age groups. Rolls are perfect for lots of different types of foods you make. Be sure to find some the next time you go grocery shopping.

Pasta

Another filling favorite is a simple pasta dish. You can add your favorite canned sauce or make your own. Enriched whole wheat pasta offers beneficial nutrients that help to keep your family healthy, especially when combined with other food group selections in a well-balanced diet.

Canned Fish

When fresh fish is unavailable or inconvenient, reach for a can of tuna and make some salad or a sandwich. Tuna is versatile and contains healthy levels of selenium, a nutrient that many people lack in adequate supply. You can make creamed tuna over toast or a hot tuna melt sandwich with cheese. Canned salmon is another great protein source. It can be used for salmon patties or a salmon loaf and combined with fresh veggies of your choice. Mackerel and anchovies also come in canned versions to round out your fish options.

Pre-Packaged Vegetables and Fruit

With many health and nutrition experts recommending that we eat more fruit and vegetables, fill your pantry with the pre-packaged versions that come in cans, jars, or foil pouches. Sauerkraut, potatoes, carrots, peas, green beans, and various types of fruits like pears, pineapple, and applesauce provide a full range of vitamins and minerals needed for good health. They are filling, colorful, and tasty, ready to be served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Peanut Butter

As another protein source, peanut butter offers a healthful serving of vitamin E and other necessary nutrients. It is easy to store and needs no cooking when using it for sandwiches or with apple slices or celery. It can also be used in pancakes or to make a dessert. Filling and delicious, peanut butter is a beloved staple.

Line your pantry shelves with foods like these to make busy nights a bit easier. Filling and tasty, foods like those mentioned above can make healthy and easy dinners that your family can enjoy.

Author Bio

Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University, and now writes articles about health, business, family and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.