Let’s face it… most of us don’t have the time to cook “insta-worthy” meals 24/7.
(I know I don’t). And if you’re in a pinch, the last thing you want, is to find yourself digging through an endless field of almond flour, maca powder, and yogi berries after a long day of work.
It’s time to spring clean your pantry and invest in some high-quality basics!
Here are my top 10 pantry staples for the working foodie:
1) Quality Oil
Good oil can enrich any food. Here are two oils you can start with:
I love to cook with Dr. Bonners Coconut Oil and Braggs Olive Oil. These are both my OG oils, as they are delicious and accessible.
2) Super Salt
Pink Himalayan Salt has been my go-to for everyday cooking the past couple of years, and I don’t see it changing anytime soon.
Take a deeper dive into its benefits here.
Another salt that I highly recommend is the French Sea Salt, fleur de sel. I love to use this salt as a sprinkle on delicately flavored foods, like perfectly done jammy eggs. Try it!
3) Flavorful Sauce
You don’t want to skimp on your tomato sauce! Oftentimes a good sauce will make up for your lack of fresh herbs like basil and oregano on a short moment’s notice. I love having a variety of 2-3 flavors in my pantry at all times.
Bonus: Add in a “plain base” like coconut milk, that can serve as the perfect addition to a soup or stew.
4) Prepared Proteins
Beans, tuna… you name it. Canned or jarred proteins “beef” up nearly any meal, from salad to breakfast eggs.
The key is to look for Organic and “BPA-free” canned items.
My favorite brand of beans that never sacrifices quality is Eden Foods. If you’re looking for sustainable tuna with low mercury levels, you will definitely want to check out an all-time favorite of mine – American Tuna.
5) Cozy Starches
I grew up on rice, pasta, and all the goods. For me, it’s all about the quality rather than eliminating full food groups.
If you’re looking to go for quality that never disappoints, check out:
Rice & Quinoa
When looking for pasta, look for ones made from durum wheat, Spelt, or Kamut flour:
Everyday Nutritious Pasta
Artisan Spelt Pasta
Steel-Cut Oatmeal
6) Savoury Soup
Ready-made soups are a must-have in my book as I am a “hurricane season” South Florida type of girl. For consistent soups, Amy’s doesn’t disappoint.
And if you’re looking for an ode to college ramen days, an instant miso soup is one of my favorite types of soup to have when I am craving something warm and light or can use to elevate my takeout sushi.
7) High-Quality Sweetener
My favorite sweetener is honey. I use it on toast, tea, brown rice, and chicken.
For more on the benefits of raw honey, dive deeper here.
8) DIY Nut Mix
There isn’t a nut mix that satisfies me as much as one that is tailor-made by me.
I love a mix of brain-healthy nuts like pistachios, walnuts, and brazil nuts coupled with coconut flakes, and dark chocolate chips.
Throwing this into a full-fat yogurt while I’m on the go is forever a go-to snack of mine.
9) Good Ketchup and Mustard
Good ketchup and mustard can truly make a difference.
After trying a bunch over the years, it all comes down to finding ones that aren’t loaded in high fructose corn syrup. Because if the ingredients are good, chances are you won’t need all the extra sweetness. Primal Kitchen does a great job.
10) Tasty Olives
Last but certainly not least, I love having a variety of olives from around the world in my pantry. This is perfect to throw into frittatas, salads, or to have as a snack with crackers and cheese.
These are some of my most accessible favorites.
Having a carefully curated pantry gives you the freedom to expand your culinary ability without having to sacrifice nutritional value. – Goldie Wollman
Stay organically opulent,
Goldie Wollman
